Thought Longchamp was just all about luxury leather goods? Think again.
The Parisian luxury house was founded in 1948 by Jean Cassegrain and remains run by the family. Longchamp has been a brand respected for their elegant, independent spirit and is often known for the iconic Le Pliage bag – the nylon handbag with leather handles that folds to a rectangle.
Having reached the ripe age of 70, Longchamp decided to throw an anniversary celebration like no other, showcasing their continual surge forward in strength as a brand not just about beloved accessories, but key sartorial picks too.
The first was this season’s collection, which they’ve opted to choose iconic model Kendall Jenner to front the campaign. We can see why. The brand felt that Jenner embodies the modern-day Amazon: Contemporary, independent and a strong woman.
The campaign was further supplemented with a mini-film, The Encounter, which also starred Jenner. The film observes the memorable encounter between the American model and the horse, the icon of Longchamp. The campaign reflects the strength of Longchamp as the brand positions itself as a holistic lifestyle brand that excels not just in leather goods and accessories, but in ready-to-wear as well.
Given the success of their fall, we eagerly awaited to see their S/S ‘19 and were met with no disappointment.
It wasn’t a typical SS19 runway show for Longchamp: It was used to celebrate their 70th anniversary while dropping their first ever catwalk show. Venue? New York; chosen for its free and adventurous spirit that resonated with the brand’s quest for authenticity.
Showcased at the World Trade Center, the show was joined by celebrities like Priyanka Chopra and Awkwafina who joined to celebrate the brand’s latest collection.
Inspired by the Californian lifestyle and Parisian elegance, creative director Sophie Delafontaine combined these elements with the glamour of the 70s for this collection.
Late nights and desert drives in Los Angeles are featured through printed dresses and tops made with light, flowy fabrics paired with leather and fringed jackets. The ikat is another signature motif that features heavily in Longchamp’s Spring/Summer ‘19 collection.
True to their leather craftsmanship heritage, fringe and leather were featured prominently as well in the accessories and footwear of the Spring/Summer ‘19 collection. New designs of the Amazone were accented with stones and colourful contrasting colourful materials while the Calvacade were offered in bright colours and animal prints. To finish it off, fringed leather gladiator sandals highlighted the strength of the modern Longchamp Amazonian woman.
We’re thrilled Longchamp decided to mark their 70th with this luxury show and we can only hope it’s the first of many. Here’s to the next 70. We’ll drink to that.
