I walked through Paris intending to see the highly anticipated Singer Sargent exhibition at the Musée d’Orsay, only to realise I’d forgotten to get a ticket. So I changed direction. Heading towards Lafayette, I decided to step into Printemps first, and that detour turned into the day’s best discovery.
Images from the exhibition Sac, sac, sac. More Than a Bag
On the sixth floor, under the Wybo Dome, Printemps Haussmann celebrates the bag in all its forms with the exhibition Sac, sac, sac. More Than a Bag.
It’s free, beautifully curated, and full of eye candy, showcasing everything from ultra-luxury pieces to everyday icons, heritage techniques to contemporary innovation. Around 200 pieces from Louis Vuitton, Coperni, Lemaire, Maison Martin Margiela, Balenciaga and Chanel trace how this intimate object evolved from hidden pockets to symbols of identity and style.
It’s an inspired way to stage an exhibition of an accessory loved, needed and desired by all. Some carry iconic names like the Kelly, the Jackie or the Speedy; others are known for their shapes. A few even mimic everyday objects, like the hyperrealistic hand-painted baguette bag, a leather barbell bag by Longchamp, or the leather version of a familiar big bag from the Swedish flat-pack company.
More images from the exhibition, and statement bag by Xuanzi Hu
The scenography feels couture, crafted from repurposed materials of past shows, with archival imagery and interviews with artisans. A collaboration with ESMOD International highlights prototypes by emerging talents, including Xuanzi Hu, who brings poetic precision to modern leatherwork.
Vintage Heaven on the 7th floor of Printemps Haussmann
And one floor higher awaits Vintage Heaven: rails of rare YSL, Balenciaga and Dior pieces, and of course, more bags, each one available to acquire. It’s all about vintage. A corner dedicated to redesigned jewellery, menswear and childrenswear adds another layer of discovery. The rooftop view alone feels like a cinematic pause over Paris.
Images taken by author, courtesy of Printemps Haussmann
On view until 26 October 2025 at Printemps Haussmann, Paris.
Discover more: printemps.com
