With a rich history that dates back nearly two centuries, the house of Longchamp has long been recognised for its timeless designs that carry forward the legacy of horseback riding. With an extensive array of ready-to-wear, bags, accessories and even lifestyle products, the brand has catapulted itself to the frontline of accessible luxury in the modern day.
For spring/summer 2024, creative director Sophie Delafontaine looked at providing the Longchamp woman with a contemporary update. Introducing the Longchamp University collection, a collection that bridges traditional Parisian allure with a refined level of youthful exuberance. Fit for the trendy exchange student of a young style muse finding her place in the world, this collection injects culture and buzz into everyday classic. It is the epitome of preppy chic juxtaposed with a hints of bohemian and streetwear influences, exhibiting class and taste.
Staple wardrobe pieces such as denim jackets, T-shirts and and bermuda shorts see a refreshed update, adept to the current zeitgeist while retaining its timeliness. There is also a nod to vintage clothing from the late ’70s, with collegiate prints and floral motifs adorning several of the flowy blouses and retro-inspired denim, along with co-ord sets that were heavily popularised in the early ’00s. Bold summer shades in sunflower and apricot imbue several of the statement pieces, injecting life and vibrancy. The collection is chic yet hippy, sexy yet sporty in its own ways.
Moving away from the clothing the maison continues its offering of versatile bags that boast functionality and durability. The Épure bag is available in both its signature bucket silhouette as well as a new squarish iteration that allows for seamless carrying of a notebook and pencil—perfect for taking to class or work. The now-iconic Très Paris shoulder bag boasts a new crossbody variation, made of supple calfskin leather and offered in a spectrum of deep shades from khaki to electric blue. Lastly, the trademark Le Pliage bag makes its return, it’s capacious silhouette now finished in a gorgeous textured raffia suited for outdoor escapades. Strappy sandals and crochet bucket hats round up rest of the collection, everyday accessories fit for the summertime.
Sophie Delafontaine set out this season to rejuvenate the French maison, to inject a certain youthfulness and temerity. The result was a cosmopolitan melting pot of taste, one filled with a certain youthfulness and temerity that hasn’t been seen for a long time.
To shop the spring/summer 2024 collection, visit Longchamp’s official website here.
