Polene Numero Un Mini the Backpack - My Honest Review
We often hear that the capsule wardrobe concept is about quality over quantity rule, but building a timeless and elegant wardrobe doesn't mean we have to spend a fortune on designer clothes, handbags, or shoes. So I want to start the spring/summer season with a new series on my blog, which will be about the classic wardrobe staples and quality accessories, thanks to which I was able to build a simple and versatile closet.
In my posts, I want to focus on honest and (in my opinion) responsibly priced brands and items I've had in my wardrobe for quite some time already: classic coats, knitwear, quality basics, workwear clothing, leather shoes, and beloved handbags. That's the foundation of my seasonal capsules, which I want to keep for years because of the quality, timeless design, and practicality. If you're like me - you pay attention to quality fashion and timeless accessories, but at the same time, you don't want to spend thousands of dollars on designer labels - I think you might like this series. Since a new season is finally here, I thought the best choice to start this series would be a short review of the most versatile and practical handbag I've ever owned - Polene Numero Un Mini - the backpack edition.
I always loved shopping for bags, but thanks to the closet decluttering challenge I did last autumn, I'm gradually paring down my collection season by season. When it comes to designer handbags, nothing has changed here. As you might know already, I'm not a fan of monogrammed purses, big visible logos, or seasonal trends that come and go - but please remember, it's just my personal opinion. We're all different. We have different budgets, priorities in life, and expectations regarding quality or style. For example, many blogs and magazines about luxury fashion list brands like Chanel, Dior, or Louis Vuitton as the best to invest in, but I don't see the point of overpaying for big designer labels. The quality has to cost - I get that, and believe me, I'm a big advocate for the quality over quantity rule and 'cost per wear' method while shopping for clothes and accessories. But when it comes specifically to handbags, I know from my own experience that it's possible to find a unique and beautifully crafted purse without breaking the bank. Also, I don't believe that a designer bag with a huge visible logo will make us look more attractive, elegant, or confident. Yes, it's an accessory that might complete the outfit, but at the same time, even the most expensive purse will not elevate our look if the rest of the clothing will not be tidy - clean, free of creases, and appropriate to the occasion. But again, this is just my opinion. As I always say, we should buy and wear what makes us feel good, because we dress for ourselves, not to please the people around us.
However, on the blog, I share my personal thoughts about the fashion industry, and when it comes to handbags specifically, here are some rules I like to follow while adding something new to my collection:
Don't buy fake luxury goods.
It's just not worth it. It's illegal, has nothing to do with luxury or true class, the quality of such bags is very poor, but what's the worst - you don't know who made them and how. In my opinion, there's a massive difference between a high-quality dupe and a cheaply-made replica with a fake logo. If you're on the budget, consider buying a pre-loved purse, or invest your money on something more affordable but still classic and beautifully made.Buy what you truly love.
Choose something that will compliment your style in the best way possible, but remember that bags should be, above all else, functional. They should serve a purpose and go well with your lifestyle.Pay attention to details.
I love leather purses, neutral options, classic designs, and fairly priced brands. Sometimes, I regret that I usually choose handbags in dark, earthy, or safe, neutral colors, but when I see how practical they are, I'm glad I decided on something timeless and versatile. When choosing a handbag, what's important to me is the quality of the leather, lining (it must be easy to clean), stitching, the durability of the hardware/zipper, the comfortable strap, and the simple closure.When deciding on a new handbag, ask yourself:
Do I love it?
Is this an impulse buy?
Is it timeless and well-made?
How often will I use it?
Do I plan on keeping this purse for years to come?
Is it worth the price?
Can I afford this bag?
Is there any chance that I can get this bag as a pre-loved?
My current handbag collection may not be seen as minimalist by some. But as I mentioned, this year, I've downsized it to only these options that fully meet my practical and fashion needs. At first, I was a bit nervous about getting rid of a few bags that I still liked but used only occasionally. However, I can highly recommend such a handbag declutter:
First of all, I have more space in my closet.
Secondly, I saved some extra cash by selling those purses I don't use anymore.
And finally, I don't waste my time transferring the contents from one handbag to another in the morning.
When it comes to an elegant handbag for work, I decided to keep the Viadukt model from Ameli Zurich. It's an excellent alternative to the Celine Mini Belt, but the price difference is €1600! Yes, it's crazy - especially since the quality of the Ameli bag is really great! I already wrote a short review of this model (here), and after seven months of using it daily, I can still highly recommend it as an office/business bag.
The second purse I've decided to keep is the Numero Un Mini from Polene Paris. It's been over a year since I added this handbag to my collection and discovered the magic of a backpack. Polene is a Parisian leather goods brand founded in 2016 by two brothers and a sister. If I were to define their designs in only a few words, it would be:
high quality
unique
feminine
and fairly priced.
Personally, I discovered the brand in 2018. It was a time when my approach to fashion changed a lot - I was looking for something unique but timeless that won't go out of style. And then Polene handbags began to saturate my Instagram feed. It was exactly the bag that I was looking for! After eyeing their iconic Numero Un, I got it in a trio camel option - it's a fantastic bag, very spacious, durable, and practical for everyday use. So far, the entire Polene collection can be ordered online on their official website. Also, all designs can be purchased directly in their store, which is located here: 69 Rue de Richelieu, 75002 Paris, France.
At the beginning of 2021, I was super lucky because the Polene team contacted me and asked if I would like to try something new from their current collection. I immediately thought about the latest edition of the Numero Un, but this time in the Mini Backpack version. Although the handbag was kindly sent to me as a gift more than a year ago, I just want to point out that today's review is not sponsored partnership. I just wanted to share some of my thoughts about this model because I still get a lot of questions about it, and actually, if you are thinking about getting your first Polene handbag, I believe Numero Un is the best option to choose. No matter which size and style you decide to order, I guarantee that you will be delighted by its quality and functionality - plus, there is a rainbow of shades and textures to choose from.
The backpack from today's photos is one of the latest editions of the Numero Un model. Its size is identical to the Numero Un Mini with a gold chain - the exact dimensions are 20,5cm x 18cm x 9cm. There is also no difference in price, and both handbags currently cost €290.
What I love the most about this model is its multi-functionality. It has an adjustable strap, so you can wear it as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or cute backpack (it usually took me about a minute to adjust the strap). The bag was available in five different colors and full-grained leather. Like any Polene purse, this one is also packed in an aesthetic cotton dustbag and elegant cardboard box. The package comes with a note that shows you step-by-step how to change the strap so you can style it in three different ways. Personally, my favorite way to wear this model is the crossbody or backpack option.
The purse has a half-circle magnet closure, two metal eyelets for sliding the leather straps, and four studs at the bottom. The hardware and the small Polene logo are in a lovely, subtle gold shade. It's almost invisible, so the bag looks nice with silver and gold jewelry.
Speaking about the closure - usually, I have to use both hands to push the flap so the clasp hooks magnetically, but I still think that getting into the bag is easy and quite handy. After closing the backpack, everything inside is well secured. It never happened to me that it unexpectedly opened itself. The interior includes cotton lining, the main compartment, and one deep slip pocket that is great for keys, a smartphone, or a small wallet. In general, the bag does hold quite a lot of stuff:
wallet (13cm x 10cm)
sunglasses with etui,
keys with etui
iPhone, AirPods, Kindle
press powder (8cm x 8cm), lip balm, perfumes 30ml, small hand cream,
tissues,
small snacks.
When it comes to the exterior pocket - it's small but quite tight (practical for parking tickets, face masks, etc.).
Have I noticed any issues in the Numero Un Mini Backpack?
No. As I already mentioned, I have been using it for more than a year, and so far, I have not noticed any scratches, color transfer, etc. At first, I was surprised by how thin the shoulder strap was, but after many months of using this handbag at least 4 times a week, I find it very comfortable. The leather is very durable, the lining easy to clean, the bag is not heavy, and it literally goes with all the clothes I have in my wardrobe.
As for the availability of Polene bags - the fact that they can only be purchased online (or in their Parisian shop) might be pretty annoying and defined as one of the biggest cons. But personally, I think it makes the brand special and more exclusive.