Louis Vuitton bags are one of the most iconic and recognizable accessories in the world, mostly due to their monogram print – the classic LV pattern. The company originally began in 1854 to provide waterproof, lightweight, durable and luxurious luggage to travellers.
By the 1930’s, after much success in the industry, George Vuitton, Louis’s son, designed the first handbag intended for everyday use. The bag is a smaller version of the luggage line’s Keepall bag, which is more of a ‘duffel bag’ style.
As the story goes, travelers riding the train into Paris needed a bag that could hold everything they needed for the day, yet easily fit into overhead compartments or on their laps. For it’s convenience it was dubbed “The Speedy”, and its shape has remained unchanged for the past 80 years.
Each season offers new prints, styles and colours, but it’s famous monogramed print stand the test of time. The quality of manufacturing hasn’t changed since the 19th century either – every bag is produced with high quality leathers and made by hand.
The Speedy is a member of Louis Vuitton’s Iconic Collection as one of their most infamous bags. Its importance represents the beginning of the company’s journey into the handbag industry and the influence it had on the way both men and women use luggage today.
Last year, Louis Vuitton’s Atelier marked its 100th Anniversary at it’s location on the Champs Elysee by inscribing the owners initials onto the bag.