Antoine Mothay
Co-Founder and Chief Executive, Polène
Polène’s co-founder and chief executive has piloted the French leather goods brand to success with a formula that unites craftsmanship, minimalist design and accessible prices.

Antoine Mothay is the co-founder and CEO of Polène, a French leather goods brand that has rapidly gained international recognition for its minimalist designs. After co-founding the brand with his siblings (Mathieu and Elsa), Antoine has propelled Polène to the forefront of the contemporary fashion segment through innovative design, strategic expansion, and a deep commitment to craftsmanship.
The Mothay siblings, who hail from France, have combined their diverse educational backgrounds and shared passion for design to build Polène into a globally recognised brand.
Antoine Mothay directly oversees all aspects of the company, including operations, growth strategy, the brand’s financial health, sustainable expansion, as well as its creative direction and image, known for its distinctive aesthetic.
The brand’s leather goods are crafted in Ubrique, Spain, a region renowned for its skilled artisans. Polène’s expansion into new markets, including recent store openings in Tokyo, Seoul and soon London, reflects the growing demand for its products. In September 2024, LVMH-backed L Carterton took a minority stake in the brand.
VITAL STATISTICS
What is The BoF 500?
The people shaping the global fashion industry, curated by the editors of The Business of Fashion, based on nominations and on-the-ground intelligence from around the world.
