Longchamp

LONGCHAMP

Longchamp is a French leather and luxury goods company.

Longchamp was founded by Jean Cassegrain in 1948, and the company employed individual craftsmen dispersed throughout the Loire valleycountryside to create leather coverings for pipes and other products geared toward smokers. By 1955, it had expanded to include small leather goods, opening its first factory in Segré. By the 1970s, Longchamp opened its first boutiques in Hong Kong and Japan, and became known for its lightweight travel goods.

In 1980, the founder's son and current company president, Philippe Cassegrain took the helm and began expanding its retail and factory locations into Belgium and Germany. The company also began producing clothing, scarves, and other fashion accessories.

In 1993, Longchamp introduced its "Le Pliage" line, a collection of foldable travel bags made of vinyl and leather trim. Its popularity has allowed the Longchamp brand to penetrate new markets abroad, including the United States.

Today, in addition to its heritage as a leather goods firm, Longchamp has cultivated a devoted following and brand that is now known for its designs. Venturing into partnerships with notable designers, artists and celebrities has seen the likes of Thomas Heatherwick design Longchamp's SoHo boutique, and Tracey Emin and model Kate Moss create special collections. Moss has also appeared in a number of Longchamp advertising campaigns.

The first Longchamp handbags

Seeing a decline in the demand for smoker’s accessories, Cassegrain looked to leather bags as his next point of sale. Slowly bag designs began to replace pipes in Longchamp stores, developing into the synonymous range we know today. Longchamp handbags came to fruition in the 1970’s with the LM bag. It was designed by Jean Cassegrain’s son Philippe, who now runs the company. The LM handbag range was extremely popular throughout Asia, acting as a catalyst for the brand’s rise in fame. Original designs of the Longchamp LM featured the jumping horse and belt criss-cross logo. After being discontinued in the 1980’s, the line has been relaunched for Longchamp’s 60th year anniversary. Longchamp’s most popular line is the Le Pliage handbag collection. These handbags transcend generations and feature a canvas surface completed with a signature Longchamp top flap which gives them instant recognition the world over. The history behind Longchamp and its handbag range ensure it is truly embedded amongst the top fashion houses in the world today. When you buy a Longchamp, you know you’re buying quality.