Founded in Paris in 1948 by Jean Cassegrain, Longchamp is a French brand that specializes in leather goods, ready-to-wear, shoes, and travel accessories. The company has over 300 proprietary stores in 80 countries worldwide.
Since its inception, Longchamp has been associated with sophistication and high-quality craftsmanship. The brand is a favorite of celebrities and style icons, such as Kate Middleton and Kendall Jenner.
The company was the first one to make the world’s first luxury leather-covered pipes, then expanded into small leather goods, such as wallets, passport covers, etc. Its first women’s collection of handbags was launched in 1971. Thus, it became one of France’s leading leather goods makers.
As of today, Longchamp remains under its founding family, the Cassegrain. And only one of the few brands in the world that are still managed by its original creators. But is the brand considered a luxury or not?
Is Longchamp A Luxury Brand?
Longchamp is definitely a luxury. On the other hand, compared to many luxury brands that people know of, Longchamp is in the ‘affordable luxury’ group because many of its products come with a low price. But, although it is considered an affordable luxury brand, it still maintains high-quality, exclusive, and extraordinary leather goods as far as luxury goes.
1. The History Of The Company
Longchamp has been in the industry for over 70 years and has definitely made a name for itself. Since its inception, it has built its branding which reflects to the quality and price of its products. Thus, it was able to make a breakthrough as the company that first created and produced the luxury leather-covered pipes in the world.
Thus, the company has been able to successfully position itself as a luxurious and high-end through its branding by using classic and timeless designs. Nonetheless, it is as well as using premium materials to produce products.
2. The Materials Used By The Company
Longchamp uses some of the finest materials in the market to produce its products such as high-quality nylon, leathers and more. The company sources its leather from tanneries in France and other countries. It has special workshops in Maine-et-Loire, Mayenne, Vendée, Orne to meet the demands of its customers.
Additionally, the company is confident with its brand as it even offer a good after-sales service through wear repairs for items that are covered by Legal Guarantees and the Longchamp guarantee.
3. The Brand’s Aesthetics
Longchamp is a know as a classic and timeless brand. The design of its products is clean, chic, and elegant, which are made to last for a long time. So, there’s no doubt that even time passes by, many of Longchamp’s products would still be relevant in the fashion scene because of the designs with a touch of modernity.
For example, Longchamp has produced its innovative “Le Pliage” women’s foldable handbag that became popular due to its functionality, style, and design. The bag is made of nylon and leather which can be folded into a small square shape. It has multiple compartments and it comes in different colors. The “Le Pliage” bag is perfect for everyday use, travel, or even special occasions.
4. The Target Customer
While it is true that Longchamp is considered an affordable luxury brand, there’s still exclusivity for its products because it is not meant for everyone. The company targets a specific type of customer – those who are fashionable, elegant, and have a taste for high-quality products. Thus, its products are for people who either have disposable cash or are willing to spend and invest in a good quality product for a reasonable price.
The company’s philosophy is to make products that are both functional and beautiful at the same time. And this is evident in all of its creations, whether it is a handbag, a wallet, or any other type of accessory.
5. Favorite Of Many Public Figures
While most of Longchamps products are considered affordable compared to other luxury products, it has been favored by many celebrities and public figures. For example, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has been seen carrying a Longchamp bag on multiple occasions. Another royal that was seen using the brand is Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge.
Longchamp has also collaborated with known people in the fashion industry and personalities who have a great influence. For instance, the brand has collaborated with model Kate Moss and released a line of handbags called “Kate Moss for Longchamp.” The collection was very successful as it sold out in many stores. Other notable collaborations are with designers and artists such as Tracey Emin, Mary Katrantzou, Jeremy Scott and Sarah Morris to reinterpret its collection of Le Pliage totes.
Does Longchamp Hold Value?
Longchamp actually holds value surprisingly well, particularly with its bags. Because the brand is so popular and well-known, its bags tend to maintain a good resale value. Thus, the limited edition collaboration bags of Longchamp will likely be worth more in the future. For example, there are instances where “Kate Moss for Longchamp” bag is being sold at a higher price than its original retail value.
The same goes for other limited edition bags of the brand such as those that were created in collaboration with designers and artists. So, if you purchase a bag from Longchamp, you can be confident that you will be able to sell it at a later date for a price that is not too far off from the original price you paid for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Longchamp bag?
Longchamp bags’ prices vary depending on the style, material, and design of the bag. For example, the bags may cost from $95 to over $1,500. As for the famous Le Pliage totes, the price can be anywhere between $60 to $840 per piece.
How long do Longchamp bags last?
Longchamp bags are made with high-quality materials so they can last for a long time. With proper care, the bags can last for several years. For example, it is said that Le Pliage bags can last up to 10 years, depending on the usage of the product.
Does Longchamp use real leather?
Yes, according to its website, “the leathers Longchamp uses to manufacture its products exclusively come from animals, both ovine and bovine, primarily intended for food consumption.”
