Soon after moving to Paris, I became familiar with the term Flaneur — a person who likes to potter and observe. I've inherited this very apt term as it's exactly how I like to spend my time. Between work, I spend a significant amount of time playing tourist (if I can still call myself that?) during which, I either stumble upon boutiques or add to my ever-growing footnotes on French fashion, by drawing style references from locals.
There's no denying the rhetoric that French women appreciate clothing and I can vouch for the fact they adore accessories in equal measure. From Jane Birkin spearheading the basket bag trend to the noughties Baguette bag, and the excellence of Hermès, there are ample examples to demonstrate the significance of handbags in Paris’ fashion history.
Nowadays, you needn't part with thousands if you are inspired by the handbag aesthetic of French women. Mid-priced luxury retailers have corned the market, producing some of the most sought-after handbag styles across the globe. From the highly coveted shapes of Polène to the lesser-known independent brands nestled in the streets in Le Marais, allow me to introduce you to 12 handbag brands French women wear year-round.
SEE THE BEST FRENCH BAG BRANDS:
1. Polène
You'll be hard-pressed not to spot the snaking queue around Polène's Flagship store in Bourse when visiting Paris. Despite living here for a year, I'm still astounded at the dedication of its customer base, some of whom travel cross-country to invest in its directional bags. Beloved for plush designs, high-quality fabrications and entry-level pricing, it's an attainable luxury worthy of investment.
Shop Polène :
One of Polène's latest offerings — the Mokki features a contrast stitch and polished gold hardware.
Solé offers a unique take on the basket bag with flattened pebble beads and a threaded handle.
This has become my work bag for long days in the city. It's big enough to fit a 15-inch laptop!
2. Tammy and Benjamin
You'll find the Tammy and Benjamin boutique nestled in Le Marais, home to many French ateliers, consignment stores and independent boutiques. On my first visit in-store I was impressed by the refined and intentional capsule. Each piece speaks to the essence of French style, bearing simple silhouettes with a French lilt. Its bags will surely stand the test of time.
Shop Tammy and Benjamin:
The squared design is so sleek.
Typically Parisian.
This bag will go with everything you own.
3. RSVP
With modernity at the forefront, RSVP is passionate about the integrity of leather, married with expert practice, functionality and seamless design. Each style features its signature circular hardware which has become recognisable in France.
Shop RSVP Paris:
A masterful pairing of suede and the tobacco hue.
RSVP were well ahead of the curve where burgundy is concerned.
Note the textured profile, which adds an additional dimension to this style.
4. Longchamp
Jean Cassegrain pioneered Longchamp's convertible totes in 1971 and France has never looked back. I spot women wearing Longchamp handbags at least a handful of times per day and the brand has come a long way since its original Le Pliage. Its Roseau bag fast became an Editor favourite.
Shop Longchamp:
Le Pliage will forever have a place in my heart.
The chicest beach bag you did ever see.
This style has amassed many fans since its release.
5. Leo et Violette
Powerhouse couple Léo Dominguez and Violette Polchi founded their eponymous accessories brand Léo et Violette in 2013. Comprising a collection of ethically produced elegant shapes beloved by French women, their arsenal features shapes from the baguette bag to taught leather satchels.
Shop Leo et Violette:
From daytime to eveningwear.
Just look at the sheen on this style.
Lovers of neutral tones, look no further than this muted colourway.
6. Sézane
Sézane has become a marker for French retail excellence with high quality and timeless iterations of French wardrobe staples. Now B Corp certified, the brand is leading the way for sustainability on the high street. It boasts a considered collection of apparel and the bags are highly worthy of praise!
Shop Sézane:
Snake print is dominating this season's trends.
The satchel bag is a classic style and the addition of suede adds a contemporary lilt.
It's chic, oversized and rain proof!
7. Sandro
Know for its clean lines and take on French minimalism, luxury fashion house Sandro comes highly recommended for its leather goods. This season, the brand offers a playful take on its shoulder bags and a host of burgundy handbags to boot,
Shop Sandro:
This rich colour will uplift your autumn outfits in 2024 and beyond.
This playful style has a '70s feel.
A boxy style for office days and beyond.
8. Rouje
Visionary Jeanne Damas created Rouje in 2016, in a bid to expertly craft the pieces in a French woman's typical uniform — from croc-effect purses to oxblood bucket bags, there are styles for all to enjoy.
Shop Rouje:
I've had my eyes on this style since 2023 and it remains relevant to date.
With the addition of a gold rose adornment.
The big bag you'll squeeze ample wear out of.
9. Atelier Auguste
Laurent and Xavier Valembert sought to pair their adoration for achitecture with handbag design, resulting in Atelier Auguste's fine leather goods. The luxury handbag brand produces in Italy, with ethical production at the helm.
Shop Atelier Auguste:
This concave design is extremely sophisticated.
It wouldn't be a French handbag edit without a squared satchel.
You evening handbag, sorted.
10. Elleme
Aptly inspired by the French phrase "Elle aime", translating to she loves, Elleme handbags are best known for femininity and playful design. One of its most coveted styles is the Baozi Raffia bag.
Shop Elleme:
The bestseller in all of its glory.
French women love woven leather handbags (more on that fact later).
Suede and burgundy is a delicious pairing.
11. Cahu
Shop Cahu:
First conceived in Normandy and inspired a heartwarming story of nostalgia, Cahu's USP is the creation of patent holdalls crafted from hard-wearing PVC. It's a slightly more casual brand to have on your roster.
The double strap makes this style even more practical.
Take your tote bag game up a notch.
The blue lining is electric!
12. Dragon Diffusion
Jane Birkin's affinity for basket bags has been a footprint for French handbag trends. Although Dragon diffusion isn't a French brand, it is well-loved in Paris.
Shop Dragon Diffusion:
Look at this contrasting colourway.
The patina gets even richer with age.
Black woven leather handbag can be worn well into autumn.
