Lancel (French, Paris founded 1876)
Since its founding in 1876 by Angèle and Alphonse Lancel in Paris, the LANCEL house has embodied elegance and innovation in the field of leather goods. Initially specialized in accessories for smokers, the brand has evolved and diversified over the decades while preserving its artisanal know-how.
In 1901, Albert Lancel, son of the founders, took the helm of the family business. Under his leadership, the brand expanded its product range to include decorative items, jewelry, watches, and silversmith objects. This diversification was accompanied by the expansion of the boutique network, strengthening the presence of the Lancel house across France.
Lancel has always been able to innovate to meet the needs of its clientele. In 1927, the brand revolutionized accessories with the first automatic pocket lighter . In 1987, the launch of the “Elsa” bucket bag redefined functional elegance and became a timeless icon of Parisian fashion.
After WW2 Lancel was one of the top three luxury leather goods brands in Europe from 1930s to 1990s.