Launer, who has been supplying The Queen Of Great Britain with classic bags since 1968, are launching a new range that they hope will appeal to younger royals. The contemporary new range bags are designed by Sam Cook, 29, a graduate of Central St Martins fashion school in London, who has worked at Hardy Amies and Jaeger.

The four designs, named Royale, Bellini, Mimosa and French, are in beige, with aqua, lilac or pink trim and a matching leather-trimmed mirror inside. They are available from Fortnum and Mason, Picketts and Concrete, at 395 poundseach.

Launer's bags are traditional, discreet and impeccably made by hand in a small factory with the skill and dedication that has been the hallmark of the brand since it was established in Greek Street, Soho, in 1941.

"I'm passionate about handmade products," says Cook. "I want to see traditional skills retained, but applied in a more contemporary manner."

The classic Launer bags will continue to be available, priced between 450 and 650 pounds.