Longchamp Handbags

A Little Longchamp History

The Longchamp company began in 1948 when its founder, Jean Cassegrain, started manufacturing leather coverings for pipes. In the 1950's the company's products expanded to included many other smoking related items, and, as time passed, small leather goods were added to the Longchamp repertoire. The first factory was opened in 1957, and by the 1970's Longchamp was busily churning out Lambskin travel bags, luggage crafted from nylon and leather, and the key Longchamp item which was labeled the Xtra bag. This lightweight travel bag became famous for its foldable canvas which inspired many copies of the style.

In 1979 Longchamp expanded to the Far East, opening boutiques in both Hong Kong and Japan. A subsidiary in Germany, followed by another in Belgium, laid out the brand's European expansion. 1980 marked the date when Phillipe Cassegrain (son of Jean Cassegrain) took over the family business.

Longchamp transitioned into the 90's with the manufacturing of gloves, belts and silk scarves that rocketed the company into a sleek luxury line. In 2006, a flagship store entitled "La Maison Unique Longchamp" opened, attracting famous celebrities such as Uma Thurman and Lucy Liu.

Longchamp handbags are still made in France today within workshops located in Segre and Maine et Loire. A large staff is employed in the production and manufacturing of these handbags; 800 employees work just in production!

The Look of Longchamp Handbags

These handbags are a celebrity favorite because of their luxurious French style. But the most distinguishing characteristic of Longchamp handbags is found in their horse logo. Why a horse? The famous Longchamp Horse logo was inspired by a notable Parisian race horse track entitled Longchamp. The name Longchamp translates to "long field" in French.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Longchamp handbags are considered competitors of Chanel and Hermes which are two of the most luxurious brands on the list of high-profile designers.

Le Pliage

Many Longchamp products such as the "Le Pliage" line feature foldable concepts and convertible bands. Since pliage means "fold or bend" it is no wonder that this collection boasts an incredible ability to fold or bend, making them ideal for traveling. As specific designs vary from season to season, yet always chic and rich in bright colors, the Pliage collection is truly innovative. Unfortunately, the brilliant design of Le Pliage handbags does detract from the sophistication of the bag. Being that it is manufactured using nylon, the Pliage collection offers more specialty pieces than outstandingly haute pieces.

The Galatee Handbag

The Galatee is another popular design within Longchamp's handbags. This modern and refined luxury bag possesses more of a timeless quality than the practicality minded Le Pliage collection. Red cowhide leather and embossed silver Longchamp studs alongside dual handles make for a memorable handbag. The Galatee is practically Longchamp's Birkin.

Styles and Designs

Longchamp truly takes handbag design to the limit with its incredible array of seasonal styles and looks. Yes, Longchamp will definitely carry a classic white leather hobo with hearty buckles and adequate studding. The company's designs, however, can be festive as well with the introduction of shimmering multicolor stripes set against a hobo design.

From satchels to totes, to hobos and shoulder bags, Longchamp spans the usual styles you'd expect from any handbag designer. But these bags always feature the best quality of leathers, coated canvas, and hardware materials. Moreover, Longchamp is never shy when it comes to color, so you'll be purchasing your choice handbag in flirty powder pinks or rich siren reds!

Purchasing Information

Longchamp has many retail stores located internationally, but the official Longchamp site features a store locater that can help you find the closest United States retailer. Many department stores such as Nordstrom and Bloomingdales will carry Longchamp handbags, but consumers should always be wary of any Longchamp merchandise sold online by unauthorized retailers.