FASHION, PEOPLE AND GIST: Moynat in London

FRENCH luxury handbag label +Moynat may not be a name popularly known especially by many British shoppers are familiar with yet, but that's all set to change with the opening of its first London store. Owned by luxury conglomerate

LVHM (the company which also counts +Alexander McQueen and +Louis Vuitton within its stable) Moynat has been making its understated, finely crafted bags in Paris since 1849, but its relationship with Britain goes back a long way.

British travellers were among our earliest international customers," Moynat CEO +Guillaume Davin

The Hotel du Louvre was a preferred destination for discerning tourists and the first Moynat store was located across the street. London has an energy, a spirit of adventure and a taste for elegance that makes it a natural destination for the house."

Although the label's signature is its trunks, its current collection includes a mix of satchels, boxy styles and clutches in colourful shades of red, blue and orange, as well as understated black, navy and tan. Each style imbues a subtle simplicity that reflects its Parisian origins.
"The core of the Moynat aesthetic is definitely French, even Parisian, with an emphasis on art de vivre, the links to the theatre, the performing arts and travel," said head designer Ramesh Nair. "The Moynat design philosophy is universal; it speaks to anyone who appreciates fine workmanship, discreet elegance and attention to detail."
Although Moynat's London store, housed on Mount Street in Mayfair, will sell two bespoke styles created for a British market, Nair doesn't design according to specific markets.
"Our customer is passionate about rare and timeless objects that combine functionality with beauty and craftsmanship," said Nair. "These are people who appreciate and are used to the finest levels of quality; I like to surprise them with our innovative approach and personalised designs."