Launer London is a heritage British brand perhaps most famously known for being a favourite of Queen Elizabeth II. It was founded in 1940 by Sam Launer who came to London after fleeing Czechoslovakia during the Second World War and began making handbags in a small rented studio in Soho. Launer’s philosophy was to make exceptional product crafted in the very best way using the finest leathers. The style of the day required a formal, structured shape and so it was that Launer built a reputation for fine leather goods, despite the restrictions imposed by the ongoing war. These exceptional bags soon became favoured and the accessory of choice by the elite of the day including royalty, society and ambassadors.
“These exceptional bags soon became favoured and the accessory of choice by the elite of the day including royalty, society and ambassadors.”
The Royal Family's history with Launer dates to the 1950s when Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother first purchased a Launer bag in the 1950’s and later gave one to her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II who has been a devotee ever since. In 1968 Launer London were given a Royal Warrant. The Queen reportedly has over 200 Launer London bags, her three favourite bags appear to be a black leather Royale, a black patent Traviata, and a third custom-made bag. According to Launer's current CEO, Gerald Bodmer, Queen Elizabeth has kept her mother’s bags from the label. Thanks to the influence of the Queen, the Traviata is one of Launer’s best selling handbags, back in 2011 when she wore a Launer bag to the wedding of Prince William to Katherine Middleton the Launer London website crashed as her choice of handbag went viral.
Since 2011 Launer have been producing bags in colours other than their traditional black, brown and navy and I absolutely love this new colour range. I initially had the impression that Launer London were a brand for the older woman, however their new extensive colours have added a young and fun element to this heritage brand - from patent orange to icing pink in a wide variety of designs; top handle, clutch or shoulder - there is something for everyone.
I wanted to show a few of my favourite bags in eye-catching colours, below are the:
- Encore in icing pink and powder pink
- Gloria in powder pink and scarlet
- Natalia in purple patent (named after Natalia Vodianova who is often seen with her Launer bag)
- Traviata in latte patent
If your not blown away by the colour combinations below, Launer offer a made to order service which has become so successful that they have an interactive tool on their website allowing you to curate your own design from their signature styles. If you opt for the same leather finishes there is no additional cost for this personalised service. The choice is endless and you become the creator creating something which is both unique and personal.
You can find out more about Launer London at a retailer or https://www.launer.com/
Photographs have click through URL’s
