PHOTO COURTESY OF POLÈNE PARIS
Since its 2016 debut, Polène Paris has earned a reputation for sculptural silhouettes and exceptional craftsmanship at attainable prices. The Parisian label extends that philosophy with the Shuldo, a new bag that takes its name from ‘shoulder’. The reference fits, since its hobo silhouette follows the natural curve of the arm.
The style wraps around the wearer in a soft, enveloping shape. That relaxed drape, however, belies a considered construction. Polène’s skilled artisans handcraft each bag in Spain, where the folded sides showcase three distinct finishing techniques. Raw-cut edges sit alongside invisible stitching and turned-out detailing, each highlighting the precision behind the bag’s fluid form.
The Shuldo pairs textured full-grain calf leather with a suede lining, striking a balance between softness and structure. Polène Paris sizes it as a genuine carryall to boot. At 49 cm by 56 cm with a 10 cm depth, it offers ample room for everyday essentials and more. A zipped interior pocket keeps smaller items in place, while a snap hook and metal ring closure provide extra security.
What makes the design compelling is its restraint. The clean, supple exterior reads as effortless, yet the layered construction reveals itself on closer inspection. It is the kind of quiet craft that has become Polène’s calling card.
Priced at USD880, the Shuldo is now available through Polène’s online boutique. It comes in seven colourways: Black, Black Cherry, Brown, Desert, Ebony, Linden and Mist, proving once again that sculptural design need not come at a steep price.
