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Brand Scorecard:
★★★★☆
Leather: 4.5
Hardware: 4
Design: 4
Engineering: 4
Craftsmanship: 5
TOTAL: 4.13
Brand Website:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
BRIEF HISTORY
Founded in 2016 by three siblings, the French House of Polène creates leather goods that combine minimalism and creative expression in order to offer unique and signature shapes achieved through excellent craftsmanship.
In the Paris studio, the leather goods are designed in a refined and timeless style with a distinctly creative touch. The perceived suppleness and light-weight look of the models is only possible through intricate technical development mastered by the designers.
The leather, sourced exclusively from Spanish and Italian certified tanneries, is sculpted to create organic shapes, folds, draping or weaving.
All production is entrusted to the craftsmen of Ubrique, a Spanish town specialized in luxury leather goods.
In keeping with their promise of quality and creativity, the House unveils a new line of accessories: jewelry. Themed collections exploring nature and its forms of expression, from the undulating movements of the wind to sculpted rock textures. A collection gilded with 24-carat gold and crafted by artisans in Italy.
FIVE PILLARS OF A GOOD LEATHERCRAFT
CRITERIA | 5 (Very Strong) | 4 (Strong) | 3 (Mixed) | 2 (Limited) | 1 (Not Present) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Leather | A perfect balance of art and fashion of leather tanning. Rare and artisanal hides from exceptional tanneries | Good leathers for the application in hand. Coming from environmentally conscious tanneries | Average corrected leathers that do NOT require high-quality raw hides. Less info on the source of the leather | Low-quality leather choice with significantly less information about the sourcing practice. | Inferior sketchy leather derivates or non-leather materials. |
Hardware | Top of the line Stainless Steel or Brass Hardware with Highest Caliber Coatings | Common alloy or brass hardware with high-quality plating and thin protection that will last a good while. | Alloy hardware with acceptable coating. Lifetime may be impacted due to the coating of the hardware. | Serious flaws in the making and coating of the low-grade alloy hardware that is harmful to humans and the planet. | Non-metal, plastic, and non-durable hardware that is harmful to humans and the planet. |
Design | A professional design language that is unique and consistent with the brand | A creative take on a classical design concept | Minimal changes to common styles | Almost copy of common/famous designs. Dysfunctional elements. | Problematic design elements affect the functionality, durability, and aesthetics of the product. |
Engineering | Highly organized, sophisticated shape and form engineering with high-quality materials inside the craft. | Clean and quality inner support materials and structure | Acceptable cleanliness of inner work with medium-quality support materials | Messy inside with low-grade support elements | Complete lack of inner structure and craftsmanship. |
Craftsmanship | Expert craftsmanship with flawless, hand or machine stitching, demonstrating advanced skills. No visible errors; edge paint is avoided using superior techniques. | Perfect machine stitching with excellent edge finishing. Immaculate inside and out, with no visible flaws, showing a commitment to quality. | Good overall stitching and alignment with minor flaws. Acceptable edge finishing, with fairly clean interior and exterior. | Noticeable misalignment and sloppy workmanship. Multiple errors affect visual appeal, with untidy interior work. | Poor craftsmanship with missed stitches, visible errors, and uncleaned residues. Major issues that may affect durability. |
Overall Score | An incredible value for money that I have no problem recommending to anyone | Very good example of great quality for a great price without any risk to try | A considerable offer with a relatively high price. Make your choice at your own discretion | Consider it well within your own criterion as the quality/price is not a decision point I can recommend here | Stay away! |
READING MY ASSESSMENT SCORES
SCORE | NAME | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
5 | Strong Yes | ⭐ This grade is given to brands that present great value for the price they charge you for their product. I have no problem confidently recommending you check their products. These are the brands I reach out to ask if they can give me an affiliate link so your purchases using my link can support my content efforts. |
4 | Yes | 👍 This indicates that the brand meets all my expectations from the perspective of price and information they have about their products. I would happily buy their products at this level of quality/value score. This is the only other category of brands I request an affiliate link to support this channel to improve my Leathertainment content. |
3 | Mixed | ➖ There are areas that I found less than desirable for the quality/price performance I appreciate personally. Some high-end luxury brands may fall under this category given I am looking for tangible value in the products, ignoring the intangible brand prestige they may offer as a value to their customers. I am not a customer of these brands and I wouldn’t recommend them to my audience if they do NOT value brand logos. |
2 | No | 👎 This indicates that the product and the brand failed my expectations in significant ways and I won’t recommend them to anyone. |
1 | Strong No | ❌ This is the lowest assessment and indicates fundamental issues in the product and/or the brand. I would say look somewhere else. |
LEATHERVERSE MATRIX
The Leatherverse Brand Matrix visually compares leather brands based on sophistication and pricing, helping consumers understand their market positioning.
Legend
Vertical Axis: Ranges from simple artisan crafts to exclusive, master-crafted items.
Horizontal Axis: Covers pricing from low (no brand premium) to high (perceived luxury), with 2x multipliers for basic products and up to 15x for heavily marketed luxury items.
Diagonal Line: Represents the balance between price and performance. Brands on the line offer good value, those below suggest poor value, and those above offer exceptional value.
AUDIENCE & CUSTOMER'S PERSPECTIVE
Based on these criteria, how would you rate Polene as a brand?
How would you rate Polene as a brand?
5
4
3
2
PRODUCTS REVIEWED
Polène Numero Uno Trio: Where High Quality Meets Reasonable Pricing
Polene's Numero Un Trio
Watch the videos here:
Luxury handbags often elicit mixed emotions. From the thrill of owning a high-end item to scrutinizing every detail, every aspect counts. One brand that's been gaining traction for offering luxury without the hefty price tag is Polène. Recently, we received their Numero Uno Trio in Burgundy, and we’re diving deep into its craftsmanship, design, and overall value. Here's our thorough review.
DISCLAIMER: This is an UNSPONSORED review. I purchased all of these products myself and am not affiliated with the brand mentioned in any way. All statements and expressions made about the products are solely the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein and are not meant to be conclusive or definitive. The purpose of this video is for informational and educational purposes only. We recommend that as a consumer, you exercise your due diligence and research on the products before adopting the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein.
NOTE: Some of the links here are affiliate links. We might get a small commission when you choose to purchase the product through our link, which will help to support our Leathertainment content and channel. But rest assured that everything written in this article is our independent review.
First Impressions
Upon unboxing, the Polène Numero Uno Trio immediately stands out. It comes beautifully packaged in a high-quality box, complete with a dust bag—essential for maintaining the bag's pristine condition. The first thing that catches the eye is the trio of different leathers used in its construction, giving it a unique and sophisticated look.
Leather and Material Analysis
Embossed Leather: The main body of the bag features embossed full-grain calfskin, chosen for its durability and scratch resistance. While not my personal favorite, this leather's practicality and robust construction make it a sensible choice for everyday use.
Full-Grain Calfskin: The handles and accents utilize full-grain calfskin with a natural, flat grain. Its minimal finish highlights the inherent beauty of the grain, adding a distinctive touch to the bag. This type of leather, with its visible grain and refined texture, is used effectively in the bag’s details.
Calfskin Suede: The flap of the bag is crafted from high-quality calfskin suede, known for its velvety texture and sophistication. Suede’s allure comes from its refined fibers rather than a top finish, and this example excels in both feel and appearance. The luxurious, velvety structure of the suede adds a notable elegance to the overall design.
Craftsmanship and Design
The craftsmanship of the Numero Uno Trio is impressive. It's evident that a lot of thought and skill went into its construction. The magnetic closure and YKK excella zippers—known for their premium quality—are excellent choices, ensuring durability and ease of use.
The bag's design is complex and sophisticated, blending functionality and style. The use of support materials within the structure, including a metal bar for handle support, showcases the brand's attention to detail. This thoughtful engineering ensures that the bag maintains its shape and form over time.
Exploring the Support Structure
There's something underneath the handle—let's take a closer look at the support structure.
This bag is nicely engineered. It features a metal bar, which is a common practice in quality bags to hold the handles together. This black backing on the leather is intriguing. It appears to be an additional layer of leather intended to improve the bag's structure. This layer gives the top leather added substance, enhancing the bag’s structural integrity.
One side has a kind of suede material packed into it, but it mostly consists of glue and other fibers that resemble plastic. This is a support material that looks like leather, but the main leather is wrapped around it to provide more substance. This approach gives the bag more structure while allowing the use of thinner leathers, approximately 3.5 ounces or 1.4mm thick. Not bad at all.
Acetone Test on the Leather
Now, let's put the leather to acetone test. Upon applying the acetone, the cow grain leather reveals its true character. Beneath a thick plastic layer, the finish holds up remarkably well and doesn’t easily come off. This bag employs three distinct types of leather, each meticulously chosen to ensure a luxurious feel. Once the support materials are removed, the quality and texture of the leathers shine through. After attempting to strip away the finish, we find a notably thicker layer, further proving the durability and thoughtful construction of this piece.
Value for Money
Creating this bag requires about 10 square feet of leather, which I estimate costs around $50. The support materials and accessories add another $30, and the complex design and assembly process would cost approximately $100. This brings the total estimated production cost to about $180.
We paid $430 for this bag, including shipping. Given my estimate of $180 to produce it, this pricing seems very fair. The bag features a sophisticated design, high-quality leather, and intricate support materials that ensure it maintains its shape and durability over time. Considering the nature and reputation of the brand, $430 is an excellent value for what you receive.
Conclusion
Polène represents a refreshing new business model that offers exceptional value without the exorbitant costs typically associated with luxury goods. The Polène Numero Uno Trio in Burgundy is a prime example of this approach, showcasing the brand’s commitment to quality and affordability. It distinguishes itself in the competitive luxury handbag market by providing excellent value while maintaining high standards of style and craftsmanship. With materials and design elements that rival those of high-end luxury brands, yet without the inflated price tag of legacy labels, the Numero Uno Trio proves to be a sophisticated, durable, and reasonably priced choice. For anyone in search of a luxury handbag that offers both elegance and value, this model is an outstanding investment.
Scorecard
TANNER APPROVED!
★★★★☆ - 4.29
Criteria | Score | Results |
|---|---|---|
Leather | 4.5 | Good leathers for the application in hand. Coming from environmentally conscious tanneries |
Hardware | 4 | Common alloy or brass hardware with high-quality plating and thin protection that will last a good while. |
Design | 4 | A creative take on a classical design concept |
Engineering | 4 | Clean and quality inner support materials and structure |
Craftsmanship | 4.5 | Fair Value for quality with a brand premium: 5 to 6 x multiplier pricing. |
OVERALL SCORE | 4.21 | Very good example of great quality for a great price without any risk to try |
PRICE / COST MULTIPLIER | 5x | Fair Value for quality with a brand premium. |
Polene's Beri Bag: Redefining Luxury with Value
Polene's Beri Bag
Watch the videos here:
The luxury leather bag market has long been dominated by established brands, each with their unique blend of craftsmanship, design, and exclusivity. However, a new player is making waves and could potentially shake up the status quo. Enter the Beri bag by Polene—a bag that has caught my attention for its elegant design, quality materials, and impressive value for money. But does this newcomer have what it takes to compete with the industry giants?
DISCLAIMER: This is an UNSPONSORED review. I purchased all of these products myself and am not affiliated with the brand mentioned in any way. All statements and expressions made about the products are solely the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein and are not meant to be conclusive or definitive. The purpose of this video is for informational and educational purposes only. We recommend that as a consumer, you exercise your due diligence and research on the products before adopting the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein.
NOTE: Some of the links here are affiliate links. We might get a small commission when you choose to purchase the product through our link, which will help to support our Leathertainment content and channel. But rest assured that everything written in this article is our independent review.
Design and Aesthetic
From the moment you lay eyes on the Beri bag, its sophisticated design is evident. Polene has once again showcased their signature style with this piece, combining classic elegance with a modern twist. The bag features a streamlined silhouette, which is both timeless and versatile. Its shape is flattering, and the attention to detail in the design is apparent.
The craftsmanship of the Beri bag is noteworthy. The leather chosen for this bag is not only beautiful but also functional.
Acetone Test: Leather's True Beauty
In my acetone test, I peeled away the pigmented finish to expose a leather that is both refined and authentic. This meticulous process reveals a rich, unblemished surface, allowing the natural grain of the leather to emerge in all its glory. The result is a texture that invites exploration—each touch is a sensory delight, offering a tactile experience that connects you with the genuine beauty of the material.
Materials and Craftsmanship
One of the standout features of the Beri bag is its internal construction. The choice of cotton fabric for the lining is a thoughtful detail, enhancing both the look and feel of the bag. The internal support materials and techniques used are sophisticated, ensuring that the bag maintains its shape and structure over time. In terms of craftsmanship, Polene has once again impressed.
A Luxury Steal
The leather, valued at around $45, and the expert craftsmanship, estimated at $95, combine to give the Beri bag a production cost of approximately $140. Yet, this gem is available for just $380—a true bargain when you consider its exceptional quality and design. The remarkable value for money makes this bag a compelling choice for anyone seeking luxury without the lavish price tag.
Hardware Concerns
However, no product is without its flaws. The Beri bag’s hardware is one area where Polene could improve. I noticed some issues with the hardware’s coating, which is already starting to come off. Additionally, the sliding mechanism sometimes gets stuck, which can be a bit frustrating. While these issues are not deal-breakers, they do detract from the overall experience.
A Touch of Tradition
One of the most interesting aspects of the Beri bag is its origin. It was crafted in Ubrique, Spain—a village renowned for its long history of leather craftsmanship. Many high-end luxury brands have their bags made in this area, and my recent visit to Ubrique allowed me to delve into the secret sauce of this rich tradition. Polene's choice to produce their bags in Ubrique is a testament to their commitment to quality and authenticity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Beri bag is a remarkable addition to the luxury leather bag market. Its design, craftsmanship, and value for money are impressive, and it certainly poses a threat to more established brands. While the hardware quality leaves something to be desired, the overall package is compelling. Polene has once again demonstrated their ability to create beautiful, well-crafted bags, and the Beri is a prime example of their expertise.
For those considering an investment in a new luxury bag, the Beri bag is worth a closer look. It’s a beautifully put-together piece that combines great design with practical functionality, and it’s clear that Polene has not failed to impress.
Scorecard
TANNER APPROVED!
★★★★☆ - 4.29
Criteria | Score | Results |
|---|---|---|
Leather | 4.5 | Good leathers for the application in hand. Coming from environmentally conscious tanneries |
Hardware | 4 | Common alloy or brass hardware with high-quality plating and thin protection that will last a good while. |
Design | 4 | A creative take on a classical design concept |
Engineering | 4 | Clean and quality inner support materials and structure |
Craftsmanship | 4.5 | Fair Value for quality with a brand premium: 5 to 6 x multiplier pricing. |
OVERALL SCORE | 4.21 | Very good example of great quality for a great price without any risk to try |
PRICE / COST MULTIPLIER | 5x | Fair Value for quality with a brand premium. |
Leather, Love, and Ubrique: The Polene Story
Polene's Cyme
Watch the videos here:
In the bustling world of fashion and luxury, there are brands that stand out not only for their exquisite designs but also for the stories they tell. Polene, a brand born out of the vision of three siblings in 2016, is one such remarkable tale of creativity, dedication, and a commitment to producing high-quality, timeless handbags.
Join me on a journey into the heart of Polene, exploring its origins, the enchanting village of Ubrique, and the meticulous artisanship that makes each piece a work of art.
DISCLAIMER: This is an UNSPONSORED review. I purchased all of these products myself and am not affiliated with the brand mentioned in any way. All statements and expressions made about the products are solely the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein and are not meant to be conclusive or definitive. The purpose of this video is for informational and educational purposes only. We recommend that as a consumer, you exercise your due diligence and research on the products before adopting the opinion of Tanner Leatherstein.
NOTE: Some of the links here are affiliate links. We might get a small commission when you choose to purchase the product through our link which will help to support our Leathertainment content and channel. But rest assured that everything written in this article is our independent review.
Polene's Roots and Vision
Founded by a trio of siblings, Polene has aspired since 2016 to introduce fashion handbags that epitomize the timeless allure and practical sophistication of Parisian style. Their journey commenced with a transformative visit to a Spanish Hermes workshop in 2014, sparking eighteen months of meticulous research spanning Eastern Europe, Portugal, and a full year immersed in Spain. This exploration culminated in a resolute decision to procure leather from certified Italian and Spanish tanneries and to bring their artistic visions to life in the storied town of Ubrique.
The strategic choice of Ubrique has proven instrumental in Polene's ascendancy in the fiercely competitive domain of luxury leather goods. By adhering to a philosophy of accessible pricing without compromising on quality, the brand has successfully carved a distinctive niche for itself.
Embark on this narrative voyage, where each stitch, fold, and stroke of artistry in Polene's creations tells a story of elegance, dedication, and the rich heritage of Spanish craftsmanship.
Embarking on a Journey: Discovering Polene and the Ubrique Magic
My introduction to Polene unfolded unexpectedly as I delved into my passion for leather goods through videos. Last year, I purchased the Numero Uno bag for review, priced at a modest $420. The quality left an indelible impression on me, setting the stage for an unexpected adventure. Little did I know that this encounter would lead me to a small Spanish village, making it a focal point in my life.
Polene takes immense pride in crafting all its bags in Ubrique, a charming village in southern Spain. The name Ubrique was unfamiliar to me until I immersed myself in Polene's story. Intrigued by the brand's commitment to quality and its reasonable price point, I packed my bags and embarked on a journey to this legendary Spanish town.
The experience in Ubrique was nothing short of magical. The artisanship I witnessed left me delighted, prompting plans for a return visit. This time, I contemplated manufacturing some of my own brand's bags, Pegai, in immersing myself in the circle of highly skilled artisans that make Ubrique a haven for leather craftsmanship.
Considering a move to Spain has transcended a passing thought. The allure of living in a country steeped in a rich history of leather craftsmanship, surrounded by skilled artisans, is a prospect that excites me. Should I decide to make this life-changing move, Polene will be the primary catalyst behind this decision.
Striking the Balance: Polene's Unique Business Model, Artisanship, and Local Impact
Polene's success is rooted in a strategic balance in its business model, boasting four signature stores strategically positioned in fashion capitals like Paris, New York, and Tokyo. What distinguishes Polene is its deliberate avoidance of fashion show participation and its extensive network of physical stores. This disciplined approach aligns with their commitment to a direct-to-consumer model, allowing them to prioritize delivering luxury-level quality at accessible prices.
Meanwhile, a behind-the-scenes look reveals Polene's dedication to artisanship, with a recent revelation about their use of top-of-the-line stainless steel hardware, placing them in league with esteemed brands like Louis Vuitton. As shared by friends in Ubrique, Polene has seamlessly integrated into the town's fabric, providing employment to numerous shops and contributing significantly to the local economy.
Polene Cyme Tote Dissection: Unveiling the Craftsmanship
The intricate sophistication of its design becomes apparent through the interplay of curves and folds. Transforming such a design concept into a tangible, real-life bag is a feat that requires tremendous effort. I believe the Polene team invests substantial time in prototyping, drawing, and meticulous craftsmanship, navigating the challenges of trial and error to achieve this level of perfection.
Commendably, they make the complex task appear minimal and flawless, showcasing a remarkable level of artisanship reflected in their unique designs. Beyond design, the materials used in the bag stand out for their top-notch quality – from microsuede fabrics for linings to impeccable stitching and top luxury-level hardware.
Upon applying acetone to remove the finish, it becomes evident that a considerable amount of heavy finish is present on the cow hides beneath. While this choice may not align with my personal preferences, it serves its purpose, providing a textured finish through a buffing process and reconstitution using heavy plastics. This particular leather might not require high-quality rawhides, as its purpose is to cover and protect the entirety of the bag. In my assessment of Polene's products, this seems to be the lowest grade of leather encountered thus far.
The Price Breakdown: Luxury at an Accessible Price
Breaking down the costs of making a bag of this size, my assessment leads me to anticipate a requirement of approximately 7 square feet of leather. With an estimated cost of $35 for the leather itself, factoring in the assembly, hardware, and additional materials in Ubrique, Spain, brings the total production cost to around $130.
Considering the level of craftsmanship and quality offered in Ubrique, this seems a reasonable investment for a bag of such caliber. Priced at $520, the bag strikes a fair balance, aligning closely with my estimated production cost. Polene's ability to deliver luxury label quality at a fraction of the price, specifically $520, is indeed a commendable service for leather enthusiasts and fashionistas alike.
While the choice of leather in this particular bag may not align with my personal preferences, as it veers towards a heavy finish, it does cater to those seeking easy maintenance and enhanced durability. Although not my preferred option, it holds merit for its scratch-resistant and waterproof properties, ensuring a prolonged pristine appearance.
Looking Ahead: Excitement for Ubrique
A recent project with Polene has heightened my excitement for Ubrique. I am thrilled to announce my upcoming visit to Ubrique next week to discuss manufacturing for my own brand, Pegai, with local artisans. This journey is not just about creating leather goods; it's about immersing myself in a world where leather becomes art, and craftsmanship is revered.
As I prepare to explore Polene's Paris store and engage with skilled artisans in Ubrique, I can't help but share my enthusiasm. This journey, documented through videos, promises to discover the essence of Ubrique, Polene's role in the town, and the artistry that makes every piece special.
Conclusion
Embarking on this exploration has not only provided insights into the intricacies of Polene's craftsmanship and business model but has also opened a portal to a world where leather becomes art, and decisions transcend the ordinary.
The prospect of manufacturing my own brand in Ubrique adds a layer of excitement to this journey, promising a deeper understanding of the rich heritage of Spanish craftsmanship. As we move forward, the story of Polene intertwines with my personal narrative, weaving a tapestry of discovery, innovation, and the timeless allure of leather goods.
Scorecard
TANNER APPROVED!
★★★★☆ - 4.29
Criteria | Score | Results |
|---|---|---|
Leather | 4.5 | Good leathers for the application in hand. Coming from environmentally conscious tanneries |
Hardware | 4 | Common alloy or brass hardware with high-quality plating and thin protection that will last a good while. |
Design | 4 | A creative take on a classical design concept |
Engineering | 4 | Clean and quality inner support materials and structure |
Craftsmanship | 4.5 | Fair Value for quality with a brand premium: 5 to 6 x multiplier pricing. |
OVERALL SCORE | 4.21 | Very good example of great quality for a great price without any risk to try |
PRICE / COST MULTIPLIER | 5x | Fair Value for quality with a brand premium. |
Nice!