Fashion

Then and now: What you should know about Longchamp’s iconic leather, Le Foulonné

09.06.2021

By Joan Kong

Then and now: What you should know about Longchamp’s iconic leather, Le Foulonné

Longchamp may be best known for its Le Pliage bags, but as a leather goods company, its leather expertise and craftsmanship are what gave the brand its leading status. During the Autumn/Winter 2021 show back in February, creative director Sophie Delafontaine shone the spotlight on Le Foulonné, one of the Maison’s signature leathers.

First introduced in 1978, Le Foulonné is named after the French word for “drummed”, which refers to the technique where leather is passed through a rotating drum after tanning. This process helps to enhance the material’s softness and reveal its natural grain, resulting in a leather that’s supple and sensual to the touch, and durable. Trust them when they say that it only gets better with age.

A close-up look at the leather

During the earliest days, Le Foulonné was only used to craft men’s products, but as fashion continues to celebrate timelessness and originality, it’s only apt that the iconic leather makes a rightful comeback. And 43 years later, Delafontaine gave the Longchamp signature the revival it deserves.

In the Autumn/Winter 2021 collection, two new models crafted in Le Foulonné complemented the equestrian-themed ensembles. Instead of striking designs, the brand focused on classic and minimal silhouettes to let the beauty of the leather take centre stage.

Firstly, there’s the square-shaped crossbody that gives off a subtle androgynous allure, and then there’s the versatile flap bag that comes in a rounder silhouette. Both designs share the same key details—an adjustable shoulder strap that’s attached to the bag by a leather loop, a stirrup-shaped buckle that’s derived from the archives, and a minimal, pale-gold hardware for that touch of shine. Refined and timeless, the carriers are truly the epitome of Parisian chic.

The bags are available in six colours—black, red, caramel, yellow Mimosa, blush pink, and soft grey Turtledove. Check out some of our favourites below:

Shop the Le Foulonné collection online here.

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