Too much of a good thing? Not when you’re a queen!
Queen Elizabeth II owns more than 200 purses from Launer London, according to Gerald Bodmer, the brand’s CEO. In a recent Daily Mail story, Bodmer revealed that Launer has held the Royal Warrant since 1968. The 89-year-old royal has reportedly kept all of her bags since then, as well as her mother’s.
“It’s amazing how they last,” Bodmer noted. “They’re structured; that’s our strength.”
Her Majesty is apparently very particular when it comes to her purse: Bodmer said that she “likes her black patent.” She also asks for longer handles so that she can shake hands effectively. Sometimes Launer will replace a suede lining with silk, but they’ll never add a zipper — the queen wants an easy opening. Occasionally, they’ll make a smaller model for her for special events.
“It wouldn’t look right for her to wear a ‘blooming great thing,’” Bodmer said.
Quality and customization comes with a hefty price tag: Launer’s most expensive purse is £1,650 ($2,326 U.S.). But the memories that the queen makes with a Launer on her arm are priceless. She carried the Lisa during Prince William and Duchess Kate’s 2011 wedding, and has greeted dignitaries like the pope and President Barack Obama with the handbag on her arm.
If the queen doesn’t believe in brand loyalty, Bodmer definitely does. “If I saw the queen walking around with a Hermès bag, I’d be annoyed,” he joked.