Saturday 18 October 2014

Longchamp Celebrates 20 Years of Le Pliage

How do you mark 20th birthday of the famous `must have for mesdames` handbag? By joining forces with Vogue, and inviting tiny-waisted fashion eds, unapologetically glam Londoners, and glitter-tastic youngsters to party the night away. And so, on Thursday night, the newly refurbished Longchamp boutique on New Bond Street, opened its doors to us for an exclusive get-together.
We were encouraged to take part in a photoshoot with our favourite Longchamp bag. I am wearing a dress from Michael Kors, and because I pack limited number of clothes and accessories for any journey, I chose this version, as my perfect travelling companion.
It was in 1993 when Philippe Cassegrain created what is now wildly recognised as Longchamp`s signature bag – Le Pliage. 
Initially made of nylon, with trapezoid shape, two handles, and a flap, it quickly become a fashion staple in many countries across the globe.
It has a massive following in Asia Pacific and I vividly remember stocking up on Le Pliages at Heathrow airport while waiting for my Singapore Airline flights; yes, in Singapore I could face each day with confidence knowing I was fashionable while carrying Longchamp bag, as it seems to be a handbag of choice for many Singaporeans.
Throughout the night, a talented DJ entertained us with cool tunes……
…….fashion illustrator, Megan-Ruth St Clair Morgan, was showcasing her beautiful sketches….  
….and Vogue contributing retail editor amused us with announcements of prize winners of small leather goods, and – at the final call – a gorgeous red handbag.
I didn`t win anything, but got besotted with this model, which looks like it is made from a water-snake skin. It is made of nylon, with leather handles and a flap and evokes limited edition Le Pliage pieces like those made by Jeremy Scott or Mary Katrantzou.
To date, Le Pliage has been made in more than 150 colours, and the construction of this particular design requires 50 different steps, to ensure it can be easily folded when needed.  
As more and more champagne glasses become empty, it was time to leave……
…….but not before we grabbed a goody bag, which consisted – among other treats – this limited edition book on the history of Le Pliage.   
 

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