Princess Anne’s Longchamp bag gets first outing of 2024, as she proves timeless elegance never goes out of style

Princess Anne's Longchamp bag was her go-to accessory as she arrived for her first overseas tour of 2024

Princess Anne arriving in Sri Lanka for her 2024 visit
(Image credit: Image 1: Photo by ISHARA S. KODIKARA/AFP via Getty Images//Image 2: Photo by ISHARA S. KODIKARA/AFP via Getty Images)

Leaving her fellow royals behind in the UK, Princess Anne swapped the cold snap for sunnier climes on 10 January, and seen carrying a bag that has the same luxury feel as many of the best designer bags under £1000

The Princess Royal arrived in Sri Lanka as the first Royal Family member to undertake an overseas visit so far this year. Pictured disembarking her commercial flight at Bandaranaike International Airport with her husband Sir Timothy Laurence, eagle-eyed accessory fans might just have spotted Princess Anne’s Longchamp bag

Princess Royal arrives for a three day official visit to Sri Lanka

(Image credit: Photo by ISHARA S. KODIKARA/AFP via Getty Images)

The senior royal has been spotted with various versions of the French brand’s classic Le Pliage style over the years. This bag, which appeared to be the Longchamp Le Pliage too, was a fabulous navy blue with classic tan straps. The Le Pliage totes come in several sizes – Princess Anne's looks to be the larger version, which costs £115. 

SHOP PRINCESS ANNE'S LONGCHAMP BAG

Le Pliage Original Large Tote Bag in Navy | £115 at Longchamp

Le Pliage Original Large Tote Bag in Navy | £115 at Longchamp

If you love Princess Anne's Longchamp tote then you might be tempted to invest in one yourself. Crafted from recycled canvas, this is a brilliant choice for traveling and it can be folded up small for extra versatility.

Princess Anne’s Longchamp bag is an investment well worth making if you love blending practicality with elegance. If her bag is the navy Longchamp Le Pliage tote, then it is made from recycled canvas and features two inside flat pockets, as well as a handy zip closure and a snap button too for extra security. 

The gold hardware on this bag adds a touch of glamour to the otherwise very practical, minimalist design. Increasing its wearability, this bag can even be folded up smaller once you’ve removed your belongings.

Princess Anne's bag as she arrives for a three days official visit to Sri Lanka

(Image credit: Photo by ISHARA S. KODIKARA/AFP via Getty Images)

Anyone who’s tempted to invest in this particular style can purchase one from both the Longchamp website directly and John Lewis too. If you love the design elements of Princess Anne’s Longchamp tote, but aren’t a fan of blue, it comes in so many other colours, and works as a great combination with one of the best winter coats and best black boots.

SHOP ALTERNATIVES TO PRINCESS ANNE'S LONGCHAMP BAG

The smaller sizes of the Le Pliage tote are also brilliant as everyday bags. There is also a good range of navy blue totes available on the high-street for slightly less luxurious prices too. We’ve been won over by the Radley alternative to the Princess Royal’s bag, which is now reduced to £58.

Princess Anne will perhaps be making the most of her own tote bag during her three-day visit to Sri Lanka this month. The Princess Royal tends to be spotted using her Longchamp bags when she travels overseas, and in October last year appeared to have brought a red one to Mumbai.

Princess Anne, Princess Royal arrives on the first day of the 141st IOC Session in Mumbai on October 15, 2023

(Image credit: Photo by INDRANIL MUKHERJEE/AFP via Getty Images)

Princess Anne is in Sri Lanka until 13 January – her visit celebrating the UK’s relationship with the country, which has been part of the Commonwealth since 1948. She will meet local communities and faith groups during her three days in Sri Lanka, as well as going to the country’s head office of Save the Children, which she’s been Patron of since 2017.

Emma Shacklock

Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!