Polène Numero Un Nano Review

Polène Numero Un Nano also known as “Number One Nano” is Polène’s signature handbag and it’s the first bag that I’ve purchased from them. I was also considering the Numéro Un Mini backpack but based on an IG story poll I chose the crossbody bag thanks to everyone’s help. The exterior has a flat pocket and the interior also has a flat pocket. The flat pockets are the perfect size for a few credit cards. The nano size is lightweight and it’s smooth allover so it doesn’t snag your clothing. The magnetic closure is easy to close with one hand but the two folds that give the bag its unique look are difficult to unbutton. For this reason, I always keep the folds unbuttoned and I only secure the bag using the magnetic closure which makes it easier and quicker to access the things inside.

I’m 5′ 2.5″ and an adjustable strap is an important feature so that the bag rests at a comfortable spot at the hip when worn as a crossbody bag or a shoulder bag.

OUTFIT DETAILS: Ann Taylor Embroidered Button Blouse, size XXS regular (review here) | Similar jeans (exact jeans in size 25/0P are old favorites) | Polène Numero Un Nano in black smooth full-grain calf leather | Banana Republic Low Block-Heel Slingback Pump (review here)

I often use the bag when I’m walking Ralphie and it fits his 12 ounce water bottle (8.5″ long and 9.25″ diameter at the widest part of the bottle), my regular size iPhone, keys, sanitizer and extra roll of poop bags. You can see the water bottle inside my bag in this short clip. Again, I keep the folds unbuttoned for easier access to the items inside my bag.

The loops that secure the crossbody strap on both sides are very snug but you can push them up to adjust the length of the strap. You may want to wear latex gloves or use a soft cloth to prevent scratching the bag with your nails if the loops are very snug. The loop is more snug on one side than the other on the bag I received. There are five holes (each about 1.25″ apart) on the crossbody strap. I am wearing the handbag on the middle setting for a 21″ drop (42″ length). The crossbody strap can be adjusted to have a 18.5″ drop (37″ length) for the shortest setting and it will accommodate up to a 23.5″ drop (47″ total length) on the longest setting.

PRICE

The smooth calf leather Numero Un Nano is currently $300 USD plus $20 USD for shipping. I later noticed a $9.60 (3%) foreign transaction fee posted to my Visa Signature credit card.

SHIPPING SPEED

The bag was shipped using DHL Express and it arrived well packaged with no damage to the shipping box or the contents inside which include a sturdy storage box and nice dust bag. I placed my online order on Friday, August 14 at 11AM, it was shipped on Monday, August 17 at 4AM ET and it was delivered on Wednesday, August 19 at 11:30AM.

QUALITY

The bag is made of a smooth calf leather which has a pleasant smell to it. The stitching on the bag I received was even and I didn’t notice any defects upon closer inspection. I’ve had the bag for about a month now as I write this review and the smooth leather is prone to scratches but the black color and the smooth sheen of the leather help to hide the small markings. I’ve broken in the bag with a few fingernail marks on the smooth leather and the other day I accidentally made a really long mark on the back corner with my nail (you can bet that I definitely cringed as I watched it happen). I would have opted for the textured leather version but I read this honest review and I decided against it. The bottom of the bag has four feet but the middle has a thick seam which also rubs against surfaces when you set it down so you will also notice wear at the junction of the seams.

VIDEO REVIEW

VERDICT

I would recommend the Polène Numero Un Nano bag if you’re considering a classic, timeless, minimalist everyday bag without paying high-end designer prices. It’s a versatile bag that pairs well with casual and dressy outfits.

Please let me know if you have any other questions about the bag that I may have forgotten to include.

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Update 4/2/2021: I haven’t carried this bag as much as I thought I would. I wish the top handle could be pushed down when you’re wearing it. I don’t like fussy snaps to close the bag for the best look without the folds sticking out beyond the bag’s top flap. Also, if I had known that my favorite Celine belt bag would be offered in a cute new mini size here then I would have gotten that instead. For a more affordable find, I still use and would recommend this minimalist Furla Piper Crossbody in black (featured here). They run promotions from time to time so you can buy it on sale if you’re patient. This new Cuyana mini double loop bag (it will available May 18, 2021) is another minimalist recommendation. My ultimate dream mini crossbody bag would probably be the Hermes Mini Lindy.

Update 4/30/2021: I recently purchased the Celine pico belt bag for my birthday. You can see the pico and micro size belt bag on me here in my Instagram highlights.

Update 5/20/2021: I just listed the Polene Numero Un Nano bag on my Poshmark closet. If it sells then I will use the funds toward the backpack which is what I originally wanted to try.

Thanks for stopping by!