FASHION HEADLINE's popular feature, "I want to see the eco-bags used by stylish people!" This time, we've researched the fashionable eco-bags beloved by our beloved Parisian ladies! We're bringing you these bags with the hope that you'll buy them as souvenirs in the near future, when we can travel abroad without hesitation again!
France, a country that is passionate about environmental issues, banned disposable plastic shopping bags in July 2016. Now, carrying an eco-bag when shopping at supermarkets or markets has become a part of everyday life for Parisian ladies. While basket bags like those used by Jane Birkin are certainly cute, considering their weight and practicality, cloth or leather eco-bags are still the best for everyday use! Check out these 10 must-haves!
01. Le Bon Marché (Bon Marché Department Store)
© Le Bon Marché Rive GaucheLocated in Paris's upscale 7th arrondissement, Le Bon Marché is the world's oldest department store, founded in 1852. While the store offers foldable eco-bags made from materials like cotton and nylon, its most popular items are its eco-leather tote bags. The geometric pattern, which mimics the layout of the elevators inside the store, is an original print by the store.
02. Q bag
The "Q bag," from Paris, is a superior eco-friendly bag that's made with sturdy neoprene, lightweight, easy to fold, and wrinkle-resistant. The bag weighs about 200g, roughly the same as an iPhone, but its durable construction ensures it retains its shape, making it versatile for a variety of uses, from work to short trips. It's machine washable, so you can keep it clean and use it for years to come.
03. Merci
Merci, a lifestyle concept store that remains highly popular, offers durable tote-style eco bags made from thick cotton. The simple design features only the logo, and a wide variety of fabric and logo colors are available. The generous gusset means you can fit more items inside than it looks.
04. Polène
"Polène" was founded in Paris in 2016. Its minimalist and unique designs, featuring curves and pleats, are crafted from full-grain leather. Each product is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans in Ubrique, Spain, a city renowned for its leather industry. Popular among Parisians as luxurious eco-bags exuding craftsmanship, the brand's tote bag, "Le Cabas," is large yet lightweight, offering ample storage, and its high-quality leather construction will elevate any outfit.
05. Biocoop
Photo by Yusuke KinakaBiocoop was established as a cooperative in 1986 to promote meaningful distribution between organic producers and consumers. It's a convenient store that stocks all the organic products you need for daily life, including fresh produce, skincare products, and household items. Many customers are health-conscious and environmentally conscious, and of course, even the eco-bags are made from recycled fabrics and zero-waste. The thick fabric, gusseted design, and shoulder straps make this bag extremely practical!
06. COMME des GARÇONS SHIRT
Photo by Steve GaudinThe tote bag from COMME des GARÇONS SHIRT is a favorite among fashion-conscious Parisians. This series, which features fabric bags covered in vinyl, is a popular item that sells out quickly with each new design released each season. It's durable and won't get wet even on rainy days!
07. Maison Plisson
Maison Plisson is a select shop offering carefully selected ingredients from all over France. Specializing in locally sourced fresh produce and small-scale French products, the shop sells products made by hand. Their eco-bags are square tote bags. Their original products, such as logo aprons and mugs, are also popular souvenirs not yet available in Japan.
08. Maison N.H.
Photo by Steve GaudinFounded by two Japanese women who have lived in Paris for many years, Maison N.H. offers bags and accessories inspired by objects they encountered on their travels around Europe. The designs, which incorporate a touch of modern spice and esprit, blend casual yet chicly into any outfit. The mesh bags, which allow a moderate amount of visibility, are so cute they could be picturesque when filled with colorful fruit.
09. Petit Bateau
Photo by Steve GaudinPetit Bateau, a leading French children's clothing brand, was founded in 1893 as a manufacturer of children's underwear. Baby clothes from this brand are a classic French baby gift. The brand offers lightweight cotton bags for moms who tend to carry a lot of luggage. Their beautiful designs make them popular eco-friendly bags, popular not only with moms but with a wide range of customers.
10. COS
Photo by Steve GaudinCOS is a contemporary brand born from the H&M group with the theme of "a timeless wardrobe you can wear for years to come." Offering items with simple, sophisticated designs, it has many fans in France. The secret to its popularity is its practical details, such as a narrow opening and adjustable handles, which make its nylon tote bags so popular.
Here are 10 of the latest and most stylish eco-bags from France that will be the focal point of your outfit. Have you found an eco-bag that catches your eye? If you're able to visit France again someday, be sure to use this as a souvenir reference.
【Profile】
ELIE INOUE
Journalist living in Paris. After graduating from university, she moved to New York and gained experience as a fashion journalist and coordinator. Since 2016, she has been based in Paris, covering fashion collections in various cities, interviewing designers, and reporting on and writing about fashion and lifestyle topics. Her main publications include FASHION HEADLINE, WWD Japan, and ELLE Japan.
ELIE INOUE
Journalist living in Paris. After graduating from university, she moved to New York and gained experience as a fashion journalist and coordinator. Since 2016, she has been based in Paris, covering fashion collections in various cities, interviewing designers, and reporting on and writing about fashion and lifestyle topics. Her main publications include FASHION HEADLINE, WWD Japan, and ELLE Japan.
