Latest news with #LePliage
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The Longchamp Renaissance Is in Full Swing
Everyone remembers their first Longchamp bag—that is, if you were lucky enough to cop one. The French leather goods brand, particularly its iconic Le Pliage line, became ubiquitous in the 2000s thanks to a mix of factors: a relatively accessible price point (especially pre-euro), classic design, and unmatched versatility. Beloved by students, celebrities, and fashion lovers alike, the accessories earned cult status for their durability, practicality, and undeniable cool—a certain je ne sais quoi, if you will. Here, artistic director Sophie Delafontaine, events lead Juliette Poupard, and CEO Jean Cassegrain discuss the family legacy that has made Longchamp more relevant than ever. Sophie Delafontaine: Every collab affords us the opportunity to mix the DNA of the brand and part of history with the know-how of the people we are partnering with. From Parisian architecture, to artisanal craftsmanship, to the story of our grandparents opening a tobacco shop and hand-covering pipes in leather, our heritage offers a ton of inspiration to draw from. Juliette Poupard: The day starts at the bakery—maybe something quick on the go, like a pain au chocolat, before heading to the office. Then it's straight into meetings with the various markets. We always try to have lunch together at Café Longchamp, right at our headquarters. It's special, because the whole team comes together—my uncle, my mom, my cousins. Everyone's there, and it really brings the office to life. Then I hop on my bike and race home just in time for a goodnight kiss with my baby. Jean Cassegrain: We hardly go out anymore because we have the café right here. We even have a gym—we live like a cult. [Laughs] JC: Our everyday challenge is to continually reinvent the brand—keeping it current, while staying true to our core values. We constantly ask ourselves: What is a contemporary interpretation of our values? The history is so rich that it can be reinterpreted over and over again with a slightly different angle and a different touch. SD: It's impossible to explain, but it's a bag that truly transcends generations—it's super universal and loved all around the world. It's very iconic, very... JC: Recognizable. SD: It has a strong character, but in a very effortless way. That's what makes it truly unique and timeless. Creating something like that isn't easy. JC: We didn't do anything special—it's not a phenomenon that we manufactured. In fact, I think if you wanted to manufacture it, that would be difficult. A lot of people have adopted it because of its uniqueness and its simplicity. JP: It's very functional. SD: So efficient, but with a strong identity. JC: Which is the most difficult thing to design. SD: From the very beginning, our grandmother was really involved. She loved discovering new artists—art has always been a big source of inspiration for us. We attend fairs, meet artists, and seek out new talent. We love blending art with our own universe. Art is everywhere: in our office, in our boutique, and in everything we do. I meet with Jean nearly every two weeks to discuss the collection. We ping-pong ideas off each other and really collaborate, refining our vision. JP: We've been in the office since we were born. I spent most of my afternoons after school at my grandmother's office, playing in the storage rooms, always involved in everything happening around us. I also spent many hours in my grandfather's office, where he'd show me his new designs and explain them to me. Now, when Sophie is working on her creations, she doesn't always ask for my opinion, but I always offer it. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn't. [Laughs] When it came time to join [Longchamp], I wanted to feel prepared and ready to contribute. It was a huge decision—perhaps the biggest I've ever made—but when the right opportunity came along, I knew it was the right time to step in. And it was the best decision I ever made. SD: With the new generation—Juliette and her cousin—it's invaluable to have their point of view on where Longchamp should go. Their input is crucial for the brand's future. SD: Tracy Emin in 2004 was a turning point for us. It was the first time we were so deeply involved in the creation of a product imagined by an artist. It felt like a revolution in our workshop, because we had to understand and refine every detail of her vision. Then, with Thomas Heatherwick, our first collaboration was to design a bag that could zip and extend—a highly technical project, more about engineering than fashion, almost leaning into architecture. It was such a success that we later asked him to design our Soho store. JC: It's probably the most spectacular [store] in the city. He also designed the Vessel and Little Island. SD: When you enter Longchamp, you're in for a unique experience, where every corner reveals a new artist. It's a way of integrating art not just into our products, but into every detail of the brand. JP: We have artwork on every floor of the office, which sparks our curiosity. JC: The phone has significantly changed customer needs. Ten years ago, people wanted wallets that could hold 20 different credit cards. Now, everything is stored in your phone. As a result, the size of bags has shrunk. SD: When I started, every active woman needed a large bag to fit things like a big calendar. Today, that's no longer the case—functionality has evolved. Now, larger bags are making a comeback. We adapt! JC: It's incredibly rewarding to build the brand together and see new people around the world discover it. We're especially proud when we introduce it to a new market and help it gain recognition. SD: What's really special about being a family business is the creative freedom it gives us. We can follow our instincts and do things with heart, exactly the way we believe in. For me, having had the opportunity to work with our parents over many years was a real gift. Now, working alongside my brother—and seeing Juliette and my nephew already involved—I truly feel that sense of transmission. It means a lot to me and gives me strength every day, knowing the next generation is here and ready to carry things even further. JP: There are many little things every day that make me happy. When I first joined, I was really proud to see how the relationships we have at work are exactly the same as outside—genuine, warm, and grounded in shared values. That gave me a real sense of safety and well-being. I still remember my first event—seeing people walk in with smiles, and even a queue outside—it was such a special moment. It made everything feel real. SD: What's truly important is preserving the quality and spirit of the brand. The product should speak for itself—elegant, well-made, and authentic, with that subtle something that sets it apart. That's what I constantly strive to maintain. JC: We want to be known as a brand that creates products made to last—pieces you'll cherish for years and eventually pass down to your child. These interviews have been edited and condensed for clarity. You Might Also Like The 15 Best Organic And Clean Shampoos For Any And All Hair Types 100 Gifts That Are $50 Or Under (And Look Way More Expensive Than They Actually Are)
Elle
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Elle
The Longchamp Renaissance Is in Full Swing
Everyone remembers their first Longchamp bag—that is, if you were lucky enough to cop one. The French leather goods brand, particularly its iconic Le Pliage line, became ubiquitous in the 2000s thanks to a mix of factors: a relatively accessible price point (especially pre-euro), classic design, and unmatched versatility. Beloved by students, celebrities, and fashion lovers alike, the accessories earned cult status for their durability, practicality, and undeniable cool—a certain je ne sais quoi , if you will . Here, artistic director Sophie Delafontaine, events lead Juliette Poupard, and CEO Jean Cassegrain discuss the family legacy that has made Longchamp more relevant than ever. On reimagining the brand for a new era Mathieu Richer Mamousse Sophie Delafontaine: Every collab affords us the opportunity to mix the DNA of the brand and part of history with the know-how of the people we are partnering with. From Parisian architecture, to artisanal craftsmanship, to the story of our grandparents opening a tobacco shop and hand-covering pipes in leather, our heritage offers a ton of inspiration to draw from. On the ideal day in Paris Mathieu Richer Mamousse Juliette Poupard: The day starts at the bakery—maybe something quick on the go, like a pain au chocolat, before heading to the office. Then it's straight into meetings with the various markets. We always try to have lunch together at Café Longchamp, right at our headquarters. It's special, because the whole team comes together—my uncle, my mom, my cousins. Everyone's there, and it really brings the office to life. Then I hop on my bike and race home just in time for a goodnight kiss with my baby. Mathieu Richer Mamousse Jean Cassegrain: We hardly go out anymore because we have the café right here. We even have a gym—we live like a cult. [ Laughs ] On the biggest challenges Longchamp has overcome Mathieu Richer Mamousse JC: Our everyday challenge is to continually reinvent the brand—keeping it current, while staying true to our core values. We constantly ask ourselves: What is a contemporary interpretation of our values? The history is so rich that it can be reinterpreted over and over again with a slightly different angle and a different touch. On the enduring popularity of the Le Pliage bag Mathieu Richer Mamousse SD: It's impossible to explain, but it's a bag that truly transcends generations—it's super universal and loved all around the world. It's very iconic, very... Mathieu Richer Mamousse JC: Recognizable. Mathieu Richer Mamousse SD: It has a strong character, but in a very effortless way. That's what makes it truly unique and timeless. Creating something like that isn't easy. Marc Piasecki // Getty Images Alexa Chung carries a Longchamp Le Pliage bag in 2011. Mathieu Richer Mamousse JC: We didn't do anything special—it's not a phenomenon that we manufactured. In fact, I think if you wanted to manufacture it, that would be difficult. A lot of people have adopted it because of its uniqueness and its simplicity. Mathieu Richer Mamousse JP: It's very functional. Mathieu Richer Mamousse SD: So efficient, but with a strong identity. Mathieu Richer Mamousse JC: Which is the most difficult thing to design. On where they find creative inspiration Mathieu Richer Mamousse SD: From the very beginning, our grandmother was really involved. She loved discovering new artists—art has always been a big source of inspiration for us. We attend fairs, meet artists, and seek out new talent. We love blending art with our own universe. Art is everywhere: in our office, in our boutique, and in everything we do. I meet with Jean nearly every two weeks to discuss the collection. We ping-pong ideas off each other and really collaborate, refining our vision. Courtesy of Longchamp A model holds a Le Roseau M Hobo bag. On joining the family business Mathieu Richer Mamousse JP: We've been in the office since we were born. I spent most of my afternoons after school at my grandmother's office, playing in the storage rooms, always involved in everything happening around us. I also spent many hours in my grandfather's office, where he'd show me his new designs and explain them to me. Now, when Sophie is working on her creations, she doesn't always ask for my opinion, but I always offer it. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn't. [ Laughs ] When it came time to join [Longchamp], I wanted to feel prepared and ready to contribute. It was a huge decision—perhaps the biggest I've ever made—but when the right opportunity came along, I knew it was the right time to step in. And it was the best decision I ever made. Mathieu Richer Mamousse SD: With the new generation—Juliette and her cousin—it's invaluable to have their point of view on where Longchamp should go. Their input is crucial for the brand's future. On their favorite collaborations Mathieu Richer Mamousse SD: Tracy Emin in 2004 was a turning point for us. It was the first time we were so deeply involved in the creation of a product imagined by an artist. It felt like a revolution in our workshop, because we had to understand and refine every detail of her vision. Then, with Thomas Heatherwick, our first collaboration was to design a bag that could zip and extend—a highly technical project, more about engineering than fashion, almost leaning into architecture. It was such a success that we later asked him to design our Soho store. Mathieu Richer Mamousse JC: It's probably the most spectacular [store] in the city. He also designed the Vessel and Little Island. Mathieu Richer Mamousse SD: When you enter Longchamp, you're in for a unique experience, where every corner reveals a new artist. It's a way of integrating art not just into our products, but into every detail of the brand. Mathieu Richer Mamousse JP: We have artwork on every floor of the office, which sparks our curiosity. ADRIAN WILSON The rooftop of Longchamp's newly renovated flagship store in New York City. On the impact of social media Mathieu Richer Mamousse JC: The phone has significantly changed customer needs. Ten years ago, people wanted wallets that could hold 20 different credit cards. Now, everything is stored in your phone. As a result, the size of bags has shrunk. Mathieu Richer Mamousse SD: When I started, every active woman needed a large bag to fit things like a big calendar. Today, that's no longer the case—functionality has evolved. Now, larger bags are making a comeback. We adapt! On what they find most fulfilling in their work Mathieu Richer Mamousse JC: It's incredibly rewarding to build the brand together and see new people around the world discover it. We're especially proud when we introduce it to a new market and help it gain recognition. Mathieu Richer Mamousse SD: What's really special about being a family business is the creative freedom it gives us. We can follow our instincts and do things with heart, exactly the way we believe in. For me, having had the opportunity to work with our parents over many years was a real gift. Now, working alongside my brother—and seeing Juliette and my nephew already involved—I truly feel that sense of transmission. It means a lot to me and gives me strength every day, knowing the next generation is here and ready to carry things even further. Mathieu Richer Mamousse JP: There are many little things every day that make me happy. When I first joined, I was really proud to see how the relationships we have at work are exactly the same as outside—genuine, warm, and grounded in shared values. That gave me a real sense of safety and well-being. I still remember my first event—seeing people walk in with smiles, and even a queue outside—it was such a special moment. It made everything feel real. Mathieu Richer Mamousse SD: What's truly important is preserving the quality and spirit of the brand. The product should speak for itself—elegant, well-made, and authentic, with that subtle something that sets it apart. That's what I constantly strive to maintain. Mathieu Richer Mamousse JC: We want to be known as a brand that creates products made to last—pieces you'll cherish for years and eventually pass down to your child. These interviews have been edited and condensed for clarity.
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Travel + Leisure
18-05-2025
- Travel + Leisure
Longchamp Bags Are Up to $253 Off During Gilt's Early Memorial Day Sale—Shop 9 Travel-ready Styles
Investing in a luxury travel bag isn't a decision to be taken lightly. The bag should be durable enough to last for years and have a timeless design that you won't tire of. Longchamp handbags and totes check all those boxes and have become a go-to for stylish (even royal) travelers, and Gilt's Early Memorial Day Sale has the brand's most popular styles up to 65 percent off. Travel-friendly handbags, like the beloved Le Pliage totes and anti-theft crossbody bags, are on rare sale, but only for a limited time. Whether you're looking for an upgrade or adding to your collection, these rarely-on-sale Longchamp travel bags, totes, and backpacks are a smart addition to any summer travel wardrobe. The designer handbag sale ends May 20 at 7 p.m. ET, so don't miss your opportunity to shop these nine incredible Longchamp deals ahead of the long weekend. Longchamp's infamous Le Pliage bag is a favorite among shoppers, thanks to its timeless and functional design. The popular bag is rarely discounted, but you can snag a large travel-size version marked down during this secret sale. Made with a black nylon coating and leather details, the short-handle bag is perfect for a weekend getaway or a carry-on bag; just remember to refer to your airline's size restrictions. Similarly, this rarely on-sale travel-friendly Le Pliage bag is an ideal companion for your next trip. The spacious interior has plenty of room to pack for a few days away. The effortlessly chic olive green shade will be a year-round favorite, and its canvas exterior features the iconic Longchamp logo as a stylish bonus. Backpacks are a traveler's best friend, and this option from Longchamp balances style with functionality. This sleek backpack has two adjustable shoulder straps, a zip closure, and a small top handle. The inside has two slip pockets and plenty of room to hold everything you need for a day out and about, like sunscreen, a wallet, sunglasses, a water bottle, and other essentials. Sometimes, less is more—case in point: this adorable Longchamp nylon bag. The small, foldable bag can easily slip into your carry-on, and while it might not hold as much as a standard tote, you'll be able to carry around your must-haves, like your phone, wallet, keys, and other small items. If you're searching for a splurge-worthy leather handbag, look no further than this Longchamp crossbody for your next trip. While the petite bag is compact, it's spacious enough to hold all your necessities for a day of sightseeing. The anti-theft crossbody strap and zipper top are practical details that give you peace of mind without sacrificing style. Plus, the playful green shade will add a pop of color to any summer travel wardrobe. Longchamp's Le Pliage Energy line is a sporty take on the classic design. This long-handle tote bag from the collection will become your newest commuter bag, taking you from work to the gym to the airport. Practicality is at the center of this handbag, with convenient long handles that will keep your hands free. Plus, the dark navy canvas outer can easily disguise marks, even if you bang it up a little. This uniquely shaped bucket-style tote bag is handy for carrying your computer, charger, or other gear onto your flight. It can fit up to a 13-inch laptop and has two inside flat pockets, so there's plenty of space to store other in-flight essentials. Summer is just around the corner, and this canvas tote bag will elevate your wardrobe in time for the new season. The canvas tote is trimmed in green leather, adding a subtle splash of color to the versatile bag. Whether you're looking for a new beach bag or an everyday tote for running errands, this roomy option is sure to earn you plenty of compliments. If you're always on the move, this practical shoulder bag is for you. The clay-colored tote is offset with black leather detailing and a sporty tassel zipper. It folds flat, so you can easily pack it in your luggage and break it out while exploring a new city. The long handles also make it easy to sling over your shoulder to be hands-free. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Daily Mirror
11-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Daily Mirror
'I was going to buy a Longchamp bag but Mango's £25 one has changed my mind'
Mirror's shopping writer Grace has been looking for a new work bag, and was surprised to find a £25 Mango tote that looks just like Longchamp's iconic shopper bag I was doing a bit of new season shopping the other day when I spotted a Mango tote bag that made me do a double-take. I had to go take a look at it because it was giving a designer bag without the designer price tag. Longchamp's Le Pliage bags are pretty iconic, known for their boxy tote shape, recycled canvas base and brown leather fastening but at £120, it's not one I can just drop and buy without thinking about it a little. So when I saw the £25 price tag on Mango's tote, it did make me think twice about my potential splurge. Mango's shopper bag with double handle has everything I'd been looking for in a bag: roomy shopper style, practical nylon finish, contrast straps and a zip to keep all my essentials secure. Available in two neutral colourways, one beige/brown version and one classic black, both of these colours will effortlessly fit into my current wardrobe and pair with pieces I already own. And the best part is that the nylon fabric makes it ideal for unpredictable British weather when a downpour can be expected at any minute. With enough room to fit my laptop, water bottle and notepad, this handy shopper makes the perfect work bag. It's also worth noting that this bag is 18 inches wide, easily spacious enough to fit larger laptops. The only thing I would be wary of is that the straps are pretty thin, so I could see them breaking quite easily if the tote bag is overloaded with too much stuff. Alternatively, if you're looking for a roomy work bag in a lighter colourway for the summer months, I love Topshop's ruched nylon tote, £32, which has plenty of room, and is in a spring-ready off-white shade. Equally, Rains' 14160 unisex tote, £65, doesn't compromise style for practicality. It's waterproof, which is ideal for spontaneous summer showers, but it also looks super stylish.
Metro
27-04-2025
- Business
- Metro
Mango's tote bag looks far more premium than it's £22 price tag
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more Longchamp's Le Pliage bag is an iconic bag many use for work, travelling, and everyday use because it is stylish and spacious. But, we think we have found a very affordable alternative from Mango, which we simply can't gate keep. Mango has created the Shopper Bag, which resembles the Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Bag, as both designs feature a fabric exterior, contrast top handles and a zip top fastening. We love nothing more than hunting affordable alternatives to designer bags, whether it's from M&S, Mango, or other retailers, and we must admit, we had to double take when we glanced Mango's 'it' bag. The Mango Shopper Bag looks almost identical to Le Pliage Large Tote Bag, though its measurements are slightly bigger, meaning you can carry a little bit more inside, which is always a winner. The large tote bag features two large shoulder straps to style this bag over your shoulder, or wear as a handbag. Crafted from polyamide and polyurethane fabric, with contrast brown straps. It features a zip top fastening to protect your valuables inside. It measures 18.9 inches in length, 11.42 in height and 7.87 inches in width, and is available in four colours. BUY NOW FOR £22.99 Crafted from recycled polyamide canvas, with leather trimmings on the top handles and top flap for extra durability. Plus, it features a coated interior to protect your bag. With two long straps, a zip top fastening, as well as flap button top, this bag has been designed to provide a secure space to house your valuables – including a laptop – and fold away neatly. Available in seven colourways. BUY NOW FOR £120 Mango's Shopper Bag has been crafted from a polyamide and polyurethane fabric blend, which is similar to Longchamp's original, which has been created using recycled polyamide canvas for the outer. The subtle difference is the designer alternative boasts an inner coating and leather trim details on the handle and button fastening on the top flap of the bag for extra durability and security – and to help keep the bag compact when folded away after use. The Mango design features two large top strap handles, which are useful to carry the bag on your shoulder, though you can carry it on the inside of your elbow, or as a handbag. Similarly, the Longchamp Le Pliage also features two long top straps too. The straps contrast the colour of the bag for both brand's designs, which makes it hard to tell the difference. Le Pliage comes in various sizes, and the large version measures 12.2 inches in length, 11.8 inches in height, and 7.5 inches in width, while Mango's design is bigger in length as it spans 18.9 inches in length, 11.42 in height and 7.87 inches in width – just a slight difference. Both bags feature a top zip fastening. But, there is one standout difference – the snap button top, which is Longchamp's signature finishing detail. Almost all of Longchamp's designs in Le Pliage collection feature a contrast flap detail with a popper fixture that provides extra security across the top opening, and makes it easy to pack away neatly. This is, of course, missing on Mango's design. More Trending It's unknown how many pockets are inside Mango's tote bag, but the Longchamp version has two inside flat pockets to house your valuables. The other difference is Mango's accessory comes in four colours, including black, navy, khaki and camel, whereas Longchamp's design comes in seven tones: black, cream, navy blue, eucalyptus, tan, pink and red. Let's not forget the price tag is hugely different, in fact the high street store's creation could save you almost £100. It's a no brainer. Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share your views in the comments below MORE: Antler's sell-out overnight bag has been called 'the ultimate travel accessory' and here's why MORE: Brighten your bank holiday with these top shopping picks from Missoma, Sol de Janeiro, TU and more MORE: Bulldog Skincare launches new Anytime Daily UV Moisturiser SPF 50 – and it's perfectly timed for summer
