Paul Jouan, maroquinier

It's true! Gorgeous handbags have a way of finding me, and so it happened as I wandered along the charming summer open-air market on Boulevard Saint-Germain; my eye caught a small booth glowing quietly with vibrant colours, smooth texture, and gorgeous craft.

There, sat Paul Jouan, a French maroquinier—a master artisan of leather bags—patiently hand-stitching one of his beautiful creations.

Paul founded his namesake brand in 2014, but his journey began long before. After formal training in traditional leatherwork in the Loire region, he honed his craft in the prestigious workshops of Chanel and Hermès, gaining rare insight into the meticulous world of French luxury. His designs reflect a deep respect for savoir-faire—that uniquely French blend of skill, soul, and precision.

His handbags are understated and elegant, crafted exclusively from selected leathers sourced in France and Belgium, many of which are vegetable-tanned for a more sustainable, natural finish. The brand's motto is “Exclusive hand-sewing.” 

From compact cross-body purses to generous top-handle bags, each piece is meticulously stitched by hand with care and precision. Clients can customise the colour combinations—from earthy classics to vibrant hues. My absolute favourite (or as the French say, "mon coup de coeur") was the Laura bag in red. When I picked her up to get a closer look, he told me that colour turns "framboise au soleil" (raspberry in the sun), and I just melted!

Who doesn't want a bag that colour?

My "coup de couer" - the Laura bag

Paul’s work is rooted in authentic French craftsmanship, with all production done between Brittany and the Vendée. His warm, cheerful presence perfectly mirrors the spirit of his creations—quietly luxurious, deeply personal, and made to last.

Catch him on Boulevard Saint-Germain until July 27, 2025, before he heads back to Brittany to continue his work online.

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