Sculptural Simplicity: Polène’s Parisian Leather Legacy

Origins and Founding

Polène was founded in 2016 by siblings Antoine, Mathieu, and Elsa Mothay. With a family background in French fashion manufacturing, the trio launched the label to bridge traditional leather craftsmanship with clean, sculptural design. Their debut bag, the Numéro Un, introduced a softly structured silhouette that defined the brand’s signature aesthetic and instantly resonated with minimalism lovers worldwide.

Ownership and Leadership

Polène remains a family-run business with Antoine Mothay leading as CEO. While the brand recently brought on a minority investor to support its international growth, creative and operational direction continues to reflect the original founders’ vision of timeless, quiet luxury.

Aesthetic and Design Language

Polène’s aesthetic is fluid, architectural, and restrained. Characterized by curved lines, gentle pleating, and softly folded structures, each piece exudes sophistication without excess. Bags are handcrafted in Ubrique, Spain using Italian leather, and designed to be versatile, durable, and elegant. The brand’s neutral palette—ivory, taupe, black, ochre—underscores its seasonless appeal and minimalist identity.

Notable Pieces

• Numéro Un – The original Polène silhouette: a sculptural top-handle bag with curved edges and a distinctive flap.
• Numéro Sept – A compact, structured mini bag that balances functionality and charm.
• Numéro Dix – A saddle-inspired crossbody bag with a rounded silhouette and adjustable strap.
• Numéro Neuf – A crescent-shaped bag with gathered sides and an unstructured, modern softness.
• Cyme Tote – A refined everyday carryall with sharp pleats and a wide-open interior.

Famous Fans

• Kate middleton
• Lily Collins
• Jeanne Damas
• Leonie Hanne
• Lucy WIlliams

The Future

Polène is expanding its international retail footprint with new flagship stores, limited edition color drops, and a slow but steady move into accessories beyond handbags. With its commitment to refined craftsmanship and timeless form, the brand continues to lead the quiet luxury movement—one sculptural silhouette at a time.

Q&A

How do you pronounce “Polène”?
“Po-LEN.” One syllable at the end.

Where are Polène bags made?
In Spain, by leather artisans in Ubrique.

Is Polène worth it?
Yes. You get refined design, strong materials, and careful construction.

Which Polène bag should I buy first?
Numéro Un for daily carry. Un Nano for essentials. Numéro Dix for a chic crossbody.

Numéro Un vs Un Nano—what fits?
Un fits phone, long wallet, sunglasses, extras. Un Nano fits a small wallet, keys, and phone-only cases.

Does Numéro Dix fit a large phone?
Yes. It holds a big phone, cardholder, keys, and lipstick.

Are Polène bags heavy?
Moderately. Grained calf holds structure without feeling bulky.

Is the leather scratch-prone?
Grained calf hides marks well. Smooth leathers show scuffs faster.

Do Polène bags hold shape?
Yes, especially grained styles. Stuff and store upright to help.

Water and rain—safe or not?
Light rain is fine. Wipe dry quickly. Avoid soaking and heat.

Do straps adjust for crossbody wear?
Many do. Some minis use fixed holes. Check the style’s strap range.

Does Polène offer monogramming?
On select small leather goods and some colors. Availability varies by style.

Any sales or promo codes?
Rare. Core colors seldom discount. Seasonal shades move faster.

How is the resale value?
Moderate. Classics and neutral colors hold best.

How do I authenticate a Polène bag?
Check logo stamping, edge paint, stitching, and hardware weight. Buy from the brand or authorized stockists.

How should I care for the leather?
Use a soft cloth. Store in its dust bag. Condition sparingly with a neutral cream.

Polène vs Strathberry—what’s different?
Polène leans sculptural and soft-structured. Strathberry highlights metal bars and sharper lines.

Polène vs Mansur Gavriel?
Polène emphasizes shaped silhouettes and grained calf. Mansur focuses on pared-back forms and smooth leathers.

Do the totes fit a laptop?
Many Cyme and larger totes fit a 13″ laptop. Use a sleeve to protect edges.

Where can I try Polène in person?
Flagships in Paris and New York, plus occasional pop-ups.