Brand Spotlight: Everything to Know About Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton probably immediately comes to mind when you think of luxury, or monograms, or handbags. Basically, Louis Vuitton is one of the top names in fashion—and has been for quite some time.
From the brand’s iconic and instantly recognizable monogram to its ready-to-wear fashion, signature luggage, must-have accessories, and underrated fragrance category, the creative minds behind the Louis Vuitton name have certainly made their mark on the world. Ahead, we’ll do a deep dive into the history, legacy, and most coveted Louis Vuitton pieces, and discover how two letters—LV—have become synonymous with sophistication.
The History of Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton’s story began in 1854 when a French craftsman named—you guessed it—Louis Vuitton, founded the brand in Paris. Initially, he specialized in crafting custom luxury trunks, and his distinctive flat-top ones quickly revolutionized luggage. At the time, traditional rounded-top trunks dominated the market—and flat-top ones were, unsurprisingly, easier to stack and transport.
As Louis Vuitton’s reputation and popularity grew, the brand quickly evolved into the go-to choice for the elite and upper class. And in 1896, the iconic LV monogram canvas as we know it today was introduced as a tribute to Louis Vuitton’s son, Georges. The now-ubiquitous chocolate brown and tan monogram—featuring the interlocking initials “LV” and floral motifs—became a hallmark of luxury and exclusivity.
Louis Vuitton Luggage
You’d be hard-pressed to pass through an airport (or, more specifically, an exclusive airport lounge) and not see at least one piece of Louis Vuitton’s functional and stylish luggage—whether it’s a tote, travel trunk, duffel bag, or rolling suitcase.
But Louis Vuitton luggage isn’t just about aesthetics. More importantly, it’s about durability, versatility, and functionality. Like all Louis Vuitton offerings, each piece of luggage is expertly handcrafted with top-tier materials to withstand the test of time and the hazards of travel. (Basically, when you buy Louis Vuitton luggage, it’s forever.)
When shopping for Louis Vuitton luggage, you’ll find a variety of unique and special pieces—from signature Monogram Canvas, to Damier Ebene and Damier Azur patterns, with a style and size for any travel need.
The Louis Vuitton Legacy
Obviously, a brand founded in a small Parisian workshop in the 1800s even being a topic of conversation nearly two centuries later is quite the feat. So to understand Louis Vuitton’s longevity, it’s important to note that it’s not solely because of the brand’s iconic products. Moreso, the brand’s success is largely due to the way it’s continually evolved to relate to its customer base. From continuous collaborations with artists and celebrities, to different eras of creative directors, Louis Vuitton has managed to stay current and relevant in a way many brands have failed to.
Louis Vuitton is, arguably, a cultural phenomenon across the worlds of fashion, art, and even music.
Nicolas Ghesquière’s Time at Louis Vuitton
The appointment of Nicolas Ghesquière as Creative Director in 2013 marked a significant chapter in Louis Vuitton’s history. Ghesquière came from Balenciaga, and brought with him a modern and avant-garde vision for the French maison.
Under his creative direction, Louis Vuitton has continued to push boundaries and redefine luxury fashion, with his shows combining both innovation and the brand’s signature elements. Ghesquière’s merging of the traditional with the contemporary cements him as one of the greats—while managing to attract new generations and retaining loyal customers alike.
One of Ghesquière’s most notable contributions? The introduction of the iconic Capucines bag, which pays homage to Paris’s Rue des Capucines—aka, where Louis Vuitton opened his first store in 1854. The design perfectly exemplifies Ghesquière’s commitment to marrying heritage with modernity, and has become a staple of the brand’s handbag collection.
Pharrell Williams at Louis Vuitton
One of the buzziest and most headline-making collaborations Louis Vuitton has done is with music legend Pharrell Williams—appointing him as Men’s Creative Director in 2023.
The partnership didn’t begin there, however: In 2019, Williams and Louis Vuitton joined forces to launch a streetwear-focused collection—including backpacks, bucket bags, sneakers, and more—celebrating inclusivity. The collection featured playful design elements like bold prints and bright hues, and opened the door for Louis Vuitton to connect with a younger and more diverse audience. After the capsule collection’s initial success, it’s no wonder the brand decided to bring Williams on in a more permanent capacity.
Louis Vuitton Today
Louis Vuitton continues to be one of the most iconic and popular names in high fashion. The brand, now owned by powerhouse LVMH, is worth over an estimated $448 billion, operating in more than 50 countries with over 460 boutiques worldwide. (Many of the boutiques are designed by renowned architects like Peter Marino.) Louis Vuitton’s presence in major fashion capitals like Paris, Milan, and New York City has helped solidify its status as a global luxury brand.
The Most Iconic & Timeless Louis Vuitton Handbags
Louis Vuitton Neverfull
As its name implies, it’s the ultimate carryall (and perfect for travel). The Louis Vuitton Neverfull features the brand’s iconic monogram canvas with natural cowhide leather trim, as well as adjustable leather straps for comfortable carrying. The bag’s cleverly designed side laces enable you to adjust the bag’s size to suit your needs. Overall, it’s a 10 out of 10 and a must-have for anyone who’s on the go, or just needs a bag big enough for laptop schlepping.
Louis Vuitton Speedy
Arguably the most sought-after Louis Vuitton bag behind the Neverfull, the Speedy comes in a variety of options—from classic Monogram canvas to Damier Ebene, Damier Azur, and Epi Leather—all accented by vachetta leather handles and trim. Pick your size, too: From the petite Speedy 25 to the super-spacious Speedy 40, there’s a Speedy for every need(y). (See what we did there?) Each Speedy style features the signature LV padlock and key bell, and a generally roomy interior, making it the perfect bag from daytime errand-running to nighttime events.
Louis Vuitton Pochette Mettis
The ultra-popular Pochette Mettis by Louis Vuitton is available in iconic Monogram canvas, Damier Ebene, or Empreinte leather. (We’ll take all of the above, please.) The design features a compact yet practical silhouette with a front flap and signature LV twist-lock closure, with an adjustable and removable leather strap for ultimate versatility. Wear it as a shoulder bag or hand-free crossbody depending on your mood. Also, who doesn’t love an interior with multiple compartments?
Shop Louis Vuitton Pochette Mettis
Louis Vuitton Alma
First introduced in 1934, the timeless and sophisticated Alma style comes in Louis Vuitton’s signature Monogram canvas, Damier Ebene, Epi leather, or Vernis leather. It’s characterized by a structured silhouette in the shape of a dome, complemented by elegant rolled leather handles and a double zipper closure. (Once again complete with an LV padlock for added security, of course.) It’s available in various sizes, from the compact BB to the spacious GM, and can effortlessly transition from day to night. Carry it by hand, wear it on the crook of your arm, or style it with the optional shoulder strap. You truly can’t go wrong.
