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Fashion
THE STORY OF LONGCHAMP
Much-loved family business Longchamp, which began in Paris in 1948, are known for their take on French style and for their iconic Pliage bag. We caught up with the great-grandson of the brand’s founding father Hector Cassegrain, for a chat on the story of the brand and the exciting new chapter (and incredible new bags) which lie ahead.
On the story of Longchamp…
My great-grandfather's original business was producing smoking pipes, he founded the brand with a simple idea: how could he make them more attractive to potential customers? He thought covering them in leather would make them much chicer as well as differentiate them from other brands. This was the beginning of many creative and entrepreneurial ideas that the business became famous for, we were the first brand to sell luggage in airports and the first brand to design a handbag in nylon. We are proud of our Parisian roots and are always looking at different ways to surprise our customers.
We are a brand that is proud of its Parisian roots and are always looking at different ways to surprise our customers.
Hector Cassegrain, Longchamp
On the brand’s DNA…
I have been surrounded by the brand’s history since I was young, there are so many aspects that I feel drawn towards. One of these would be our commitment to quality and the craftsmanship that goes in the making of all our products. Having visited our factory in the West of France many times, I am always surprised by the dedication of the teams and their deep knowledge of the materials we work with. I find it fantastic that the creation process of a handbag is still fascinating me after 25 years – but I am definitely biased!
LONGCHAMP LE FOULONNE
Hector Cassegrain
On sustainability…
As a family business, our work is to ensure the brand lasts the test of time and is handed to future generations. Sustainability isn’t a choice but a requirement. My brother joined the business around the same time as I did and we are both strong advocates for a sustainable future for Longchamp. We already do many things as a brand, such as making all our Pliages with recycled nylon, or using leftover stock to create new pieces, mostly what we do together is to ensure that we systemise our commitments to sustainability.
On joining the family business.
Well, our grandfather always gave us the choice – of leather goods for men or leather goods for women, so it all started here! On a more serious note, we were often visiting my grandparents in their shop and office and later in life I started my own career in retail knowing this would always be a useful skill to have at some point for the family. Several years working outside of the family business have taught me many skills that I happily started transferring over when I finally joined.
On how Le Pliage became an icon…
Le Pliage is indeed such an iconic piece, and I think a lot lies in the simplicity of its design. The lines are very pure, it is extremely light and versatile, and most of all – it is a product for everyone. Whether you’re on your daily commute, a trip to the end of the world, or looking to brighten up your wardrobe with some fun colours, le Pliage quickly becomes your best friend. We also love to play around with it and its simplicity makes for a perfect canvas for many artists that have used it as a blank page for their creative ideas.
LONGCHAMP PLIAGE
Namibian desert.
On adventures…
The last couple of years have made it difficult for us to venture too far away, but I like to plan trips to unexpected places. Before Covid I went to Kirghizstan and am planning our honeymoon to Namibia! I love London, where I currently live. It is also a great city for adventures closer to home with so many different neighbourhoods of the city to discover, and I was lucky enough to enjoy the Notting Hill Carnival recently which takes place just next to my home.
On travelling light…
I am a light traveller! Frequent trips from London, Paris and Amsterdam where my wife is make it quite essential to pack light – but I always bring an extra empty Pliage with me just in case.
TRAVEL WITH LA PLIAGE
On Ireland…
I visited Ireland a few times and I have always had such a fantastic time every time I visited. There are many beautiful sights to be seen, but I was most impressed by how people are always so kind and attentive – though I did make a fool of myself not knowing much about hurling!
You’ll also find Longchamp on our sustainable edit.
LOVE YOUR LONGCHAMP
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