Centuries of Style: The History of Louis Vuitton

Apr 16
07:57

2009

Tommy Martin

Tommy Martin

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An Briefing History of Louis Vuitton

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For thousands of fashion-conscious women around the world,Centuries of Style: The History of Louis Vuitton Articles there is no accessory that imparts the status and prestige of a Louis Vuitton handbag. Without even thinking twice, enthusiasts of the brand willingly hand over thousands of dollars for just one purse. The bags have graced the arms of high-profile celebrities, supermodels, and socialites as the ultimate status symbol.

What is it that sets Louis Vuitton handbags apart from the rest? Why have these extravagant accessories become so iconic in the fashion world?

For many, the appeal lies in the brand’s long and prestigious history. Louis Vuitton is one of the most enduring design houses of our time. Born in 1821, the company’s namesake designer began making the first pieces—premium luggage—and selling them in his first store in Paris, France in 1854. With many travelers frequenting cruise ships and trains, consumers gravitated to the line’s steamer bag, flat case, and the “Keepall” overnight bag that remains one of the company’s most popular travel pieces today. Vuitton went on to offer additional travel accessories, including mini trunks, carry-on bags, cosmetics cases, jewelry storage boxes, diaper bags, computer cases, and more.

When the travel pieces achieved great popularity, Louis moved on to make fine timepieces. When his son Georgie joined the company, they began producing trunks, duffels, and handbags. It was Georgie who introduced the now trademark monogrammed canvas to make it more difficult for others to replicate the Louis Vuitton handbags. 31 years after opening the first store, Louis Vuitton introduced a second store in London, with nearly 130 more worldwide locations opening throughout the 1900s. The company’s popularity, exclusivity, and prestige continued to soar over the decades.

Over the generations, the Louis Vuitton Company has demonstrated a commitment to retaining the finest designer talents. Since merging with Moet Hennessey in 1987, it has retained the services of world-famous designer Marc Jacobs, with Patrick Vuitton overseeing the design and production processes. Today, Louis Vuitton handbags and accessories generate millions of dollars in revenue each year, with the brand’s iconic reputation earning it comparisons to Prada, Fendi, and Gucci. In addition to enjoying widespread popularity throughout America, Louis Vuitton purses, wallets, and sunglasses are also in high demand throughout Korea, Japan, China, India, Africa, and a host of other countries.

Although modern innovations have been introduced to streamline the production process, Louis Vuitton’s leather artisans continue to demonstrate a meticulous attention to detail and painstaking craftsmanship in the creation of each Louis Vuitton handbag. The company adheres to its traditional apprentice system, where master leather workers train novices on the process to ensure unrivaled quality and longevity.

Popular Louis Vuitton Offerings

Over the generations, several trends have emerged as some of the label’s most popular:

• The Speedy is based on the design premise of the Keepall travel bag, but it qualifies as a Louis Vuitton handbag. Its roomy main compartment takes everything you can throw into it. Choose from four versatile styles.

• The Neverfull is quickly becoming one of the most in-demand Louis Vuitton purses. Available in three sizes, it’s offered in a variety of fabrics, colors, and patterns. Its generous proportions provide plenty of storage space without adding cumbersome bulk.

• The Noe’s innovative drawstring design took the fashion world by storm when it was introduced in 1932.

• With its whimsical oyster shell shape, the Elipse Louis Vuitton bag is available in two sizes, appealing to LV enthusiasts who are seeking a new and unique style.

Discover your own timeless style when you choose a Louis Vuitton handbag or other accessory to call your own!