Some bags are meant to stand out, and others are designed to blend effortlessly into your life, becoming part of your everyday routine without losing their charm. Polène sits perfectly in between. With its sculptural shapes, soft leather, and understated elegance, it’s a brand that has quietly built a loyal following among those who appreciate quality without excess. But what makes Polène’s bags truly special isn’t just their design, it’s how they’re made.
While the brand was founded in Paris in 2016 by siblings Antoine, Mathieu, and Elsa Mothay, its heart lies in Ubrique, Spain, a small town known for its deep-rooted leatherworking tradition. Here, artisans handcraft every Polène bag with techniques that have been passed down for generations.
The Making of a Polène Bag
Ubrique has been a hub for leather craftsmanship for centuries, supplying some of the world’s most renowned luxury brands. The artisans shape the bags in addition to assembling them. Each Polène piece is made through a meticulous process that includes hand-cutting, stitching, and molding the leather to achieve the brand’s signature curves and folds. Unlike mass-produced accessories, these bags take time, ensuring that every seam, edge, and finish is as refined as the design itself.
Polène’s commitment to quality starts with its materials. The brand sources premium leather from top-tier tanneries, selecting only the softest and most durable hides. The difference is noticeable the moment you touch one of their bags, the leather has a richness and suppleness that only comes from careful selection and expert craftsmanship.
A Different Kind of Luxury
Polène stands out because it doesn’t rely on flashy logos or seasonal trends. Instead, it focuses on timeless design and thoughtful details. The Numéro Un, with its origami-like folds, is one of the brand’s most recognizable pieces, structured yet soft, minimal but distinct. The Numéro Dix balances modernity and classic craftsmanship, making it feel like a bag that will look just as good in ten years as it does today.
The brand’s approach to luxury is refreshing. It doesn’t chase popularity or celebrity endorsements, it relies on word-of-mouth, quality craftsmanship, and a growing community of customers who appreciate beautifully made products. With flagship stores in Paris and New York, Polène is proving that there’s still a place for brands that prioritize substance over extravagance.
If you’re looking for a bag that’s elegant, well-made, and built to last, Polène is worth knowing. It’s not about making a statement, it’s about investing in something you’ll love carrying for years to come.
Sources:
https://eng.polene-paris.com/pages/about-the-brand?srsltid=AfmBOoqken5UpNFSoV36vN6qQPgGEqM4qGnBiWqLseKvKfQimBQfy2Kq
https://www.businessoffashion.com/articles/luxury/how-polene-is-growing-french-dtc-handbags-into-an-international-success/
https://www.violaineetjeremy.fr/project/polene-paris
