Longchamp
Longchamp in short
Longchamp is a French bag maker founded in 1948, best known since 1993 for Le Pliage: a lightweight, foldable nylon tote featuring a leather flap. There is also an all-leather version (Le Pliage Cuir). Clean nylon with a damp cloth, and treat the leather details with a neutral nourishing cream.
Facts and background
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1948, Paris (France) |
| Renowned for | Le Pliage folding bag |
| Categories | Bags, travel goods, small leather goods |
| Price point | Premium |
| Signature | Nylon with leather flap, foldable |
Le Pliage owes its popularity to its weight: a spacious tote that can be folded away neatly inside a handbag.
Choosing the right style
- Le Pliage (nylon) — lightweight, foldable, and water-resistant.
- Le Pliage Cuir — the same iconic silhouette in supple leather.
- Roseau — leather bag featuring a bamboo-inspired toggle closure.
- Travel models — larger weekend bags crafted in the same signature style.
Caring for nylon and leather
This combination of materials calls for two distinct care approaches.
- Wipe the nylon clean with a damp cloth and mild soap; do not place in the washing machine.
- Treat the leather flap and handles with a neutral cream.
- Fold the bag as intended to keep crease lines consistent in one place.
- Allow wet bags to air-dry open at room temperature.
Buying in the Netherlands
Longchamp is available in the Netherlands via its own boutiques, department stores, and online. Counterfeit Le Pliage bags are common: look out for the engraved press stud, the embroidered jockey logo, and the quality of the zip.
More on Brands.nl
View all brands or visit our brand guides.
Also of interest: Louis Vuitton
Compare with Louis Vuitton: read our comparison of luxury bag brands and our guide to canvas and leather types.
Frequently asked questions about Longchamp
- What is Le Pliage?
- A foldable nylon tote with a leather flap launched in 1993, representing Longchamp’s most famous design.
- Can a Le Pliage bag go in the washing machine?
- No. Wipe down the nylon with a damp cloth and mild soap, then allow the bag to air-dry open.
- How do I spot an authentic Le Pliage?
- Look for the branded press stud, the embroidered jockey logo, precise stitching, and a smooth-running zip.
- Where does Longchamp originate from?
- Paris; the family-run house was founded in 1948 and originally started by crafting leather-sheathed pipes.
Geschreven door
Brands.nl editorial team
Brand editors — interior, fashion & lifestyle
Brands.nl is an independent Dutch brand guide that sells nothing itself. Our editors follow brands, materials and collections and describe them independently, so you know what you are buying and can find similar brands.
Onafhankelijk samengesteld: Brands.nl verkoopt zelf niets en baseert zich op merkdocumentatie, andere openbare bronnen en waar mogelijk eigen ervaring.
Laatst inhoudelijk gecontroleerd: 3 september 2026