There is nothing quite like the perfect “It” handbag to grace the arm of a girl. On the level of jewelry, a statement handbag is coveted by majority of the female population. With the many “It” bags out in the market (from Hermes, Chanel, Gucci and the like), it is usually very difficult to choose just one. But what about that one bag that achieves cult status while still being useful for every busy lady out there? Yes, there is one bag that surprised everyone with the level of acceptance and adulation it received some 20 years ago and continues to receive to this day.
Longchamp is a world-renowned French luxury leather goods brand. Their style is by and large laid back and brimming with elegance and simplicity. However, their star pupil isn’t of the leather kind but rather, the more humble yet waterproof nylon material. Reminiscent of a trapezoid’s shape, their hit bag comes in several colors and sizes and is aptly named “Le Pliage”, which means “folding” in French. So when you empty your stuff out, you can fold it up and store it in another bag. We ladies love it when we have an extra bag that can fit into another one!
Another reason why the “Le Pliage” is so popular is because it is like a bottomless pit that you can use every single day. Roomy and durable, it can fit everything from a laptop, an extra pair of shoes, a breast pump, a thermos, a shawl, a make up kit and a large wallet among other odds and ends. This depends of course on the size you buy. Surprisingly lightweight, your arm is not going to feel like breaking off at the end of the day. (Now you know what really goes on inside those heavy bags women love to carry around!) Though the shape remains standard regardless of size, it does come in a variety of artistic designs. Predictably, the ones you see on every arm of every nationality are the more basic solid colors.
Women love the “Le Pliage” as a travel bag too. It is made to last and can withstand wind, rain and even snow. In spite of these abuses which many ladies would never dream of inflicting on their leather IT bags, the “Le Pliage” survives until the end and still manages to look good.
The best part about this humble nylon bag is the price tag. Costing between P5,500 to P7,700, this is a drop in the bucket compared to how much other in demand iconic handbags cost. The next best part? You can buy more than two or three with that price tag! Women love having all colors of a single item and here is the chance to indulge.
Much to the excitement of Manila’s fashionistas, housewives and career women, a stand-alone boutique in Shangri-La Plaza and Greenbelt 5 has finally made an appearance. With a fresh and elegant style that is true to the brand’s French flair, the well-loved Le Pliage is displayed alongside its leather (and more expensive) sisters who sport new interpretations and variations.
For Spring 2015, there are three variations for women to add to their collection. First is Le Pliage Heritage Mini, a downsized adaptation with dazzling shades felicitously named acid yellow, electric blue and vivid coral aside from the usual blacks and ecrus. The second version is the Le Pliage Heritage Neon. It combines smooth calfskin in neutral shades with neon bright edges. The third is Le Pliage Heritage Luxe with new patterns inspired by the Aurora Borealis.
Three irresistible versions and one distinctive style: it’s the Longchamp statement for its 2015 new collection.
