Uncomplicated style codes often define what we know as Parisian dressing. The most fashionable individuals from the French capital are often associated with an air of chicness, one achieved through classic and timeless styling.
This less is more philosophy is manifested through Lemaire, a luxury label originating from Paris. With pieces best described as "cosmopolitan, sophisticated, and rich in influences," the brand champions the elegance ingrained in the everyday.
A Brief History on Lemaire
Christophe Lemaire founded his namesake brand in 1991. A literature and fine arts graduate, the designer began his career as an assistant at other fashion studios. His tenure included four years of working alongside revered French designer Christian Lacroix.
At the turn of the century, he assumed the artistic director post at Lacoste, which he remained at for a decade. In 2010, he moved to Hermès and took the helm of their women's pret-a-porter line. It was only in 2014 that he shifted focus and decided to fully cultivate Lemaire into the brand it is today.
As of the present time, Christophe is a co-director of the brand alongside Sarah-Linh Tran. With a background in publishing, Sarah takes the reins of Lemaire's women's collections. Both designers are also co-artistic directors of Uniqlo's "U" line, a refined and contemporary sub-brand of the Japanese retail giant. The two collaborate at Uniqlo's research and development center in Paris.
Rooted in France, Lemaire has since set up shop in key territories. While their seasonal collections debut at Paris Fashion Week, most of their campaigns and pop-ups are set in locations that speak to the brand's referential nature.
The Best Lemaire Bags to Shop
While Christophe initially set off to create ready-to-wear pieces for both men and women, Lemaire has become synonymous with its contemporary bag designs. One of its most sought-after models remain to be the Croissant.
Shaped after the French pastry, the bag is characterized by its ergonomic design and robust quality. The Croissant is currently available in a myriad of colors and sizes, and is rendered in a variety of materials ranging from nappa leather to netted polyester. Each textile has its own corresponding price point.
Large Croissant Bag in Soft Grained Leather in Black, P111,800, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
Large Croissant Bag in Soft Nappa Leather in Ginger, P111,800, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
Large Croissant Bag in Coated Cotton in Brick Red, P77,900, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
Large Soft Croissant in Paper Leather in Dusty Sage, P77,900, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
Croissant Filt Bag in Polyester Net, P31,500, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
In 2024, Lemaire introduced the Fortune Croissant, which takes inspiration from fortune cookies often seen on Chinese table spreads. With an elongated handle and eye candy colorways, it provided wearers a wider range of styling options. For evening affairs, a mini version can be clutched in one's fingers.
Fortune Croissant Bag in Soft Nappa Leather in Butter, P90,300, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
Mini Fortune Bag with Beads in Soft Nappa Leather in Dark Chocolate, P123,400, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
And since each ounce of your fortune deserves to be housed properly, the Croissant also comes in coin purse form.
Croissant Coin Purse in Soft Nappa Leather in Hedge Green, P24,500, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
Aside from the Croissant, Lemaire has also introduced the Game Bag, which is more suited for intensive agendas given its nylon exterior.
Large Soft Game Bag in Nylon Canvas in Dark Chocolate, P62,100, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
The Scarf Bag remixes our trusty scarves as a functional carrier. Incorporated in the design is a touch of imagination, which has always been an integral aspect of Lemaire's vision of elevating the everyday.
Scarf Bag in Shiny Nappa Leather in Off White, P106,800, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
For a more familiar silhouette, Lemaire offers the Gear Bag. It possesses a typical shoulder bag strap and rectangular cavity, promising to securely house all of one's essentials.
Week End Gear Bag in Vegetable Nappa Leather in Black, P125,900, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
The Best Lemaire Shoes to Shop
Lemaire has also mastered the art of shoe making, utilizing leather to its fullest potential through various contemporary silhouettes. Think slippers in a glossy lambskin or sneakers with a linoleum lining.
Flat Piped Slippers in Shiny Nappa Lamb Leather in Black, P43,100, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
Ballerina Shoes in Shiny Nappa Lamb Leather in White, P43,100, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
Chelsea Boots in Shiny Vegetable Leather in Teck, P64,700, LEMAIRE, lemaire.fr
True to its roots, Lemaire continually ups the ante with its ready-to-wear collections. Every season offers something new, with each piece reinterpreting what we perceive to be our daily wear. See their full men's and women's catalogs online.
Where to Shop Lemaire in the Philippines
Lemaire readily ships to the Philippines through its official website. Presently, its flagship stores are stationed in Paris, Tokyo, Chengdu, and Seoul. However, a selection of the brand's bags and shoes are also available for viewing and purchase at homme et femme located in 8Rockwell Makati.
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