Polène
France
Polène is a Paris leather goods house founded in 2016 by siblings Antoine, Mathieu and Elsa Mothay. Known for sculptural bags made in Ubrique, Spain, at premium rather than luxury prices, it grew online before opening flagships in Europe, Asia and the United States. In September 2024 the private equity firm L Catterton acquired a minority stake.
| Founded | 2016 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Antoine, Mathieu and Elsa Mothay |
| Headquarters | Paris, France |
| Production | Ubrique, Spain |
| Investor | L Catterton (minority stake, 2024) |
| Segment | Leather goods |
| Website | polene-paris.com |
What is Polène?
Polène describes itself as a Parisian leather goods house created in 2016. It designs handbags, small leather goods, jewellery and leather objects, and is best known for curved, architectural bag shapes such as Numéro Un, Cyme, Tonca and Béri. Its prices, typically a few hundred euros per bag, position it between contemporary labels and the luxury houses.
History
The company was founded by the siblings Antoine, Mathieu and Elsa Mothay. It initially sold mainly online and built its following through word of mouth and social media before opening physical stores. In September 2024, L Catterton, the private equity firm associated with LVMH, bought a minority stake in the company, according to Wikipedia. The family remains in control.
Products and positioning
All products are made in workshops in Ubrique, in Andalusia, a traditional centre of Spanish leather craftsmanship, using Italian leather. The range includes:
- Handbags such as Numéro Un, Numéro Neuf, Cyme, Mokki and Tonca
- Wallets, card holders, pouches and bag charms
- Jewellery lines
- Leather objects and stationery
Business model and distribution
Polène operates a largely direct-to-consumer model: its own e-commerce plus a growing network of flagship stores. Its website lists stores in Paris, including Rue de Richelieu, the Champs-Élysées and Le Bon Marché, as well as London, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Milan, Seoul, Tokyo, Osaka, Beijing, Singapore and New York. Wikipedia also reports a lease for a store in Chicago and an experiential space in Hamburg opened in 2025.
Why it matters
Polène is one of the most prominent European examples of a digitally native accessories brand moving into physical retail at scale. Its combination of distinctive design, Spanish manufacturing and controlled direct distribution has attracted investor interest and is widely studied as a model for new leather goods brands.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Polène?
Polène is a private company founded and led by the Mothay siblings. In September 2024 the private equity firm L Catterton acquired a minority stake.
Where are Polène bags made?
Polène bags are made in Ubrique, Spain, a town known for leather craftsmanship, using Italian leather. The brand itself is based in Paris.