Lancel is a French brand that has a long history dating back centuries. The company, established in 1876 in Paris, has been around for 145 years. In that year, Angel Lancel opened her store in the lively Parisian neighborhood near Opera Granye. She sold smoking accessories such as tobacco, pipes, and cigarette cases. Wealthy French ladies often visited the store to smoke and discuss emancipation, making it a popular spot in the 19th century. Angel decided to expand her business. At that time, figure-hugging dresses were in fashion, and women had nowhere to hide their cigarette cases and powder boxes. That's when Angel came up with the idea of a small shoulder bag, perfect for women's belongings. The idea was a hit, and ladies happily wore the new accessory. Lancel then focused on producing handbags and other accessories. Elegant clutch bags, which could be carried in hand, replaced the classic rigid purses.
By the 1920s, Angel had several stores selling not only women's handbags and accessories but also men's bags and household goods. As people started to travel, Lancel introduced special travel bags called "sac voyages," which were admired for their convenience. In 1927, the famous bucket bag, a symbol of French lightness, was added to the Lancel collection. Until 2006, this model was known as the Bucket Bag and later renamed the Premiere Flirt.
By 1929, Lancel occupied four floors of the Opera building, where the company's headquarters are still located today. At that time, Angel's son Albert took over as the company's leader. He maintained the brand's priorities of boldness, extravagance, and the ability to sense and meet demand.
In the 1970s, Lancel released a new collection of accessories that captivated the public. The bags were inspired by the love story of Salvador Dali and Gala, and the collection was appropriately named "Dali." The prints featured symbols from their secret language created for their private correspondence, and the handle was designed to resemble a stylized bicycle chain, in line with Dali's spirit.
Celebrities like Alisa Talon, Laura Mandau, and Bridget Bardot started paying attention to the brand, and a handbag named after Bridget Bardot was released in her honor.
For 145 years, the Lancel brand has never stopped evolving, introducing models like The Adjani, Roll'n Rock, Greetings from the 30s, and many others. Today, you can choose an exclusive Parisian handbag from this brand with a century and a half of history, which will be a perfect addition to modern looks.
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