Not Le Pliage—Selena Gomez Just Proved Longchamp's Smaller It Bags Are Severely Underrated
Our take
The spotlight on Longchamp's smaller bags, fueled by Selena Gomez's recent embrace of their east-west style, feels like a quiet but significant shift in the luxury landscape. For years, the brand has been synonymous with the practical, ever-reliable Le Pliage—a workhorse tote beloved for its functionality and understated elegance. While that remains a cornerstone of their appeal, this renewed focus on smaller, more statement-driven silhouettes suggests a deeper understanding of evolving consumer desires. It’s a move away from purely utilitarian design and towards a more considered expression of personal style, aligning perfectly with the broader trend of “quiet luxury” we’ve been observing. This resonates with a desire for pieces that whisper sophistication rather than shout it, a sentiment echoed in our recent piece about [My French Friend Swears By This Polished Outfit for Autumn, Now Stylish Londoners are Adopting it Too], which highlights the enduring appeal of effortless, understated chic. The elevation of these smaller Longchamp bags also taps into a growing consumer consciousness around mindful consumption, prompting a preference for versatile pieces that can transition seamlessly from day to night, a value increasingly championed by publications like [Ethical Fashion Magazine].
The brilliance of Gomez’s choice lies in its subtlety. She’s not endorsing a flashy, logo-heavy bag; instead, she’s championing a piece that complements her personal style without overwhelming it. This approach is particularly compelling in a market saturated with ostentatious branding. Longchamp, historically known for its equestrian heritage and relatively low price point compared to true luxury houses, has consistently navigated the delicate balance between accessibility and aspiration. This move towards smaller, more refined bags strengthens that position. It acknowledges the demand for elevated essentials, pieces that feel both timeless and modern, and which offer a sense of quiet confidence. It’s a strategic pivot that caters to a customer who appreciates quality craftsmanship and understated design – someone who seeks to curate a wardrobe that reflects a considered lifestyle, much like the color palettes explored in [It Girls Agree: These 5 Colors Look Incredibly Chic With Royal Purple], showcasing how intentional choices can create a powerful aesthetic impact.
The shift also speaks to a broader generational shift in how luxury is perceived and consumed. Younger consumers, in particular, are less swayed by overt displays of wealth and more drawn to brands that embody authenticity, sustainability, and a sense of personal narrative. Longchamp, with its heritage rooted in French craftsmanship and a commitment to durable materials, is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. The east-west bag shape, in particular, has gained considerable traction in recent seasons, offering a contemporary alternative to the traditional structured tote. Selena Gomez’s adoption of this style solidifies its status as a must-have accessory, signaling a broader cultural acceptance of smaller, more versatile bags that prioritize both form and function. This isn't about replacing the Le Pliage – it’s about expanding Longchamp’s appeal and demonstrating a willingness to evolve with the times while retaining its core values.
Ultimately, Selena Gomez’s endorsement of Longchamp’s smaller bags isn't just about a celebrity wearing a particular accessory; it's a validation of a broader aesthetic shift. It's a sign that quiet luxury isn’t a fleeting trend, but a lasting sensibility that prioritizes quality, craftsmanship, and understated elegance. The question now is whether other heritage brands will follow suit, recognizing the growing demand for elevated essentials that resonate with a generation seeking to express themselves through considered choices rather than conspicuous consumption. Will we see a continued re-evaluation of classic silhouettes, a move towards smaller, more versatile pieces that embody a sense of timeless sophistication?
Between the storied Le Pliage and the up-and-coming Le Smart, celebrities certainly have an affinity for Longchamp's bigger bags. But that's not to say they skip past the brand's more compact styles. On September 17, Selena Gomez didn't just protest the "no white after Labor Day" rule. She shone the street style spotlight on one of Longchamp's most underrated designs.
While en route to speak at the 2026 Fast Company Innovation Festival, the Rare Beauty founder showcased her latest (and first non-black) New York City look of the week. Her stylist, Erin Walsh, dressed her in a mock-neck bell-sleeve blouse, an asymmetrical pencil skirt, and pointy Gianvito Rossi pumps. From there, she shade-matched the calf-length skirt—and its buttoned drapery—to Longchamp's Looong Shoulder Bag. (Yes, that is its actual name.)
This take on the east-west bag trend comes in five shades, ranging from chocolate brown and cobalt blue to Gomez's creamy "Vanilla" color. The slim buckled strap and surprisingly spacious rectangular body (inspired by the silhouette of a horseback saddle) make it the perfect going-out purse. Better yet, the buckled band is removable, transforming the already accessible style into a grab-and-go clutch.
For the rest of her finishing touches, Gomez accessorized with black sunglasses, diamond hoop earrings and, of course, her Abril Barret engagement ring.
The Looong Shoulder Bag seems to be Gomez's introduction to the French leather goods label. However, it's been a big year for Longchamp, one that started with securing Rihanna's support back in January. She brought a rare Longchamp x Jeremy Scott tote to Barbados, but it wasn't your average Le Pliage. The laptop bag—known for its foldable recycled canvas and $180 price tag—boasted the yellow, white, blue, and red skull print called "Monster."
Soon after, the Le Roseau Bucket Bag joined Anne Hathaway's and Yerin Ha's press tours for Mother Mary and Bridgerton, respectively. Early in the summer, Lola Tung brought the Le Pliage Xtra (a cropped, east-west rendition) to the 2026 World Cup. As recently as the 2026 Venice Film Festival, Laura Dern arrived by boat with an emerald green Le Smart as her travel tote. (Rose Byrne owns the same belted bag in chocolate brown.)
All that to say? The Le Pliage isn't the only It bag on Longchamp's shelves. So, don't be afraid to branch out. Keep scrolling for some of the label's most celebrity-beloved styles, including Gomez's Looong Shoulder Bag in different trendy shades.
Shop Longchamp Bags Inspired by Selena Gomez
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