If you have ever typed “Longchamp tote” into Google, you will know their Le Pliage is practically everywhere. It is foldable, recognisable, and a go-to for commuters. But if you put one next to unique handmade tote bags from Watership Down Crafts, which one actually comes out on top for everyday life? Let’s get into it.
What Longchamp Tote Bags Offer
The Le Pliage has been around for decades, and there is a reason it stuck. It is lightweight, foldable, and smart enough to take from office to weekend. The leather trim and horse logo add just enough polish that people instantly recognise it.
But here is the reality. You are also paying for the name. Current UK prices, autumn 2025:
- Le Pliage Original L Tote – £120 (Longchamp UK)
- Le Pliage Medium Tote – £110
- Smaller versions and pouches – £80 to £100
For that, you get nylon or recycled canvas, minimal internal organisation, and a design that has not changed much in years. Practical, yes. Unique, not so much. If three people in your office own the same colour, good luck telling them apart in the cloakroom.
Why Choose Watership Down Crafts Tote Bags
My totes are not churned out in a factory. Each one is handmade by me, using repurposed and rescued fabrics. Once it is gone, it is gone. You will not find another like it.
- Price range: £75 to £100, so very much in the same bracket as Longchamp.
- Features: lined, interfaced, with zips and pockets included as standard for everyday organisation.
- Style: one of a kind. Each tote carries a discreet Watership Down Crafts label, but it is the fabric and design that make the bag stand out.
Longchamp vs Watership Down Crafts: Everyday Practicality
| Feature | Longchamp Le Pliage | Watership Down Crafts |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Lightweight nylon handles light rain. Leather trim needs care. | Fabrics vary but all are lined and reinforced with strong stitching. |
| Organisation | One main compartment with minimal pockets. | Zips and internal pockets keep everyday items in place. |
| Style factor | Classic and recognisable. Brand logo front and centre. | One of a kind with a discreet Watership Down Crafts label. Fabric and design do the talking. |
| Exclusivity | Common in the wild. Many people own the same colours. | Yours is the only one. No cloakroom confusion. |
| Price | £110 to £120 in the UK | £75 to £100 |
Cost and Value of Handmade Totes Over Time
A Longchamp will last with sensible care, but when corners fray or nylon marks, replacement is usually the solution. With mine, every bag is built to last, and because it is handmade, repair or refresh options are realistic if you want to extend its life. Value for money is not just about the upfront cost. It is about how much use you get before it needs replacing.
Longchamp vs Watership Down Crafts FAQs
Are Longchamp tote bags waterproof?
They handle light rain, but they are not fully waterproof. Leather parts can suffer if they get soaked.
Are Watership Down Crafts tote bags suitable for everyday use?
Yes. Fabrics are chosen for strength, and the lining plus zips keep essentials safe. They are designed for daily life rather than occasional use.
Which tote bag is lighter: Longchamp or handmade?
Longchamp’s nylon is slightly lighter. Mine vary depending on fabric choice, and they balance that with more structure and interior features.
Which makes the better gift: Longchamp or a handmade tote?
Longchamp has brand recognition. A Watership Down Crafts tote is one of a kind, which makes it feel more personal if you want to give something unique.
Which Tote Bag Should You Choose?
If you want a polished and logo recognisable bag, Longchamp will deliver. If you want something nobody else has, practical, lined, zipped, and handmade, then a Watership Down Crafts tote is worth considering. They are designed for everyday use and to carry what you actually need while feeling personal and distinctive.
One-of-a-kind tote bags give you individuality without sacrificing practicality.