The Bag So Good, I’m Buying a Third

Attending high school in New York City in the 2000s, I recall a distinct moment when Longchamp Le Pliage bags started to replace Jansport backpacks. Slotted somewhere between colorfully quilted Vera Bradley totes and terry cloth Juicy Couture shoppers, the Le Pliage bag offered a dash of simplicity and chicness. I remember wanting one so bad, but as a 16-year-old working at an ice cream shop after school, I couldn’t justify the price. But the thought of getting my hands on a Le Pliage bag never left my mind — and also the zeitgeist, it seems. I can’t go a day without counting one, two, three, and sometimes more people crisscrossing Manhattan streets with the Le Pliage hooked over their shoulders. 

_{Prices are accurate as of June 12, 2025. Subject to change.}

Longchamp Le Pliage Handbag

After over a decade of mulling this bag over in my head, I finally made the jump not once but twice. I first bought the large tote on a whim in an easy-to-style beige hue. I loved it so much that I decided I needed the medium version as well.

My only gripe is that I should have gotten one way sooner. These handbags, in simpler terms, are workhorses and have proven repeatedly to me that they are excellent investments. I carry one of them almost every day.

The larger design is ideal for schlepping. I use it to lug my computer to library work sessions, stuff it full of clothes and toiletries for weekend trips, and keep it handy while I’m running around the city so I can pop groceries, library books, or other items in it without carrying a separate tote. Last year, I enlisted it as my carry-on during a trip to Spain, keeping it at my feet during the 8-hour flight, which gave me easy, convenient access to the magazines, books, snacks, and other plane supplies I stashed in there to fill up the time. 

Meanwhile, the medium size, which I purchased in a greenish-tan fawn color, is ideal for when you want something a little larger than your average shoulder bag but not as large as a canvas tote or backpack. It still fits my wallet, keys, 13-inch laptop, makeup bag, books, and cellphone, with room to spare, but it’s reined-in silhouette makes it a good match for dinner dates, weekend lunch plans, doctor appointments, and quick errands where you know you won’t have to lug a ton of stuff home. 

Beyond versatility, these are low-maintenance and don’t require you to be overly precious with them, which I appreciate as someone living in the middle of New York City. I’ve toted both bags in the rain, snow, sun, wind, and sleet, and neither one has shown much wear. I’ve also repeatedly gotten them both accidentally dirty with pen marks and mysterious gray smudges while carrying them on the train, which I easily got out using mild soap, water, and a soft towel. Some people have thrown their bags in the washer, turned inside out, on a gentle cycle to remove stains, but I haven’t tried this yet, so I can’t speak to its effectiveness.

Their simple silhouette is discreet without feeling too plain, while their shoulder straps are comfortable and remarkably strong. They feel very secure, even when the bag is very heavy, thanks to the reinforced stitching along the base of the straps. A zip closure offers additional protection from the elements, and also means no curious hands can grab anything in a crowd.

There’s an interior pocket, which is handy for storing your wallet or phone. If you want the versatility and strength of this bag but need more structure, there are plenty of bag organizers available on Amazon, even some made with the Le Pliage in mind.

Storage is also excellent. When you’re not using the Le Pliage, you can fold it up into a small square and keep it together with a nifty snap button. This makes it incredibly simple to stash in a dresser drawer or on a closet shelf.

Although I already have two of these bags, I’m eyeing a third. Now, to decide between the all-black or dark brown version. 

Featured Image Credit: Image Courtesy of Longchamp