Month: January 2023
The best vintage Louis Vuitton bags : names, prices, and how to choose
As Louis Vuitton’s quality continues to decline, more vintage lovers are turning to second hand designer handbags and the vintage market in particular.
The goal of this article is to explain what Louis Vuitton vintage is. It will review the most popular and timeless vintage silhouettes, and discuss what you should consider before buying vintage items.
We have compiled a list of the most desirable vintage Louis Vuitton bags under $1,000 (most of them are actually under $500) with their names and pictures for handbag lovers looking for a gorgeous vintage Louis Vuitton purse. Let’s get started!
How Do You Identify a Vintage Louis Vuitton Bag?
Let’s define vintage bags first. A vintage item is one that dates back to a previous era. As vintage literally means ‘of age,’ it is difficult to set a specific age limit. To qualify as a vintage item, an item must be at least 40 years old.
Handbags and accessories are a bit more complicated. Less than 100 years ago, most designer bag companies, such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel, began manufacturing bags.
We consider a designer purse vintage if it’s over 20 years old. Thus, a generation has passed and fashion has circled back and forth a few times. Furthermore, this time frame suggests you may have inherited this item from a family member.
The 14 best vintage Louis Vuitton bags and purses under $1,000
Our article shares 14 vintage Louis Vuitton handbags that we think might be worthwhile finds. Vintage crossbody bags, shoulder bags, and backpacks made of Louis Vuitton canvas will be discussed.
Do vintage Louis Vuitton handbags last longer?
Some handbag collectors claim vintage Louis Vuitton bags are of higher quality. It’s true what they say. Items were supposed to last longer back then. Therefore, the canvas was more durable.
What is the price of vintage Louis Vuitton bags?
A vintage purse’s price largely depends on its condition, so it’s difficult to set a price tag. Currently, these handbags are over 20 years old. They come in all kinds of condition, from a like-new purse that was never taken out of the closet to junk that was almost falling apart to spare parts.
The handbags and purses listed below are available in acceptable used condition for under $1,000.
Styles of vintage Louis Vuitton handbags
Since we, modern women, love to keep our hands free, a significant portion of our bag closet consists of crossbody and shoulder bags.
Bags were a totally different animal 30-40 years ago. The purse didn’t have to be spacious since you didn’t need to carry your laptop (there wasn’t one available). In those days, purses were more something you carried to an event than a daily accessory that fit your books or laptop.
Here we review authentic vintage Louis Vuitton bags in this section, including:
- Speedy Louis Vuitton vintage
- A vintage Louis Vuitton Sac Plat tote bag
- Louis Vuitton Keepall bag, vintage
- Handbag vintage Louis Vuitton Ellipse
Check out some of the iconic vintage silhouettes from the French high-end purse manufacturer that are sure to make you fall in love with them. We will follow up with names and pictures!
Speedy Louis Vuitton vintage
Speedy was originally created for Audrey Hepburn and became Louis Vuitton’s most popular purse. Since Speedy handbags have been produced for over 80 years, many versions and sizes are available, with the Monogram Canvas Bags pattern dominating the big picture.
This vintage Louis Vuitton doctor bag is a timeless addition to your bag collection that your grandchildren can inherit. Although the quality of your Speedy is so much better than that of its current version (other than wear and tear), it is impossible to tell when it was made.
You can also find a birthday Speedy, i.e. a bag produced in the month you were born. Isn’t it magical?
Check out vintage Louis Vuitton Speedy on eBay, which has a variety of options to fit any budget.
A vintage Louis Vuitton Sac Plat tote bag
Take a look at this vintage beautiful purse that honors the 1980s if structured flat handbags are your thing. Today, this classic flat silhouette is still relevant for documents and papers.
The Sac Plat is a vintage Louis Vuitton bag manufactured between 1982 and 2015. Over the past 30 years, it has become one of the signature vintage LV handbags, available in Monogram Canvas (vintage) and Damier Ebene canvas (mid-2010s). Sac Plat was discontinued for a few years, but recently the French designer house brought it back. They designed a miniature version in several limited edition patterns, such as Monogram Pastel.
Louis Vuitton Keepall bag, vintage
I think it’s hard not to mention a Keepall, the predecessor of the Speedy, when discussing vintage Louis Vuitton bags. Originally a travel bag without a strap, it has evolved into a classic gym/weekend bag available in a variety of sizes.
Although Keepall is not a bag you would wear every day, it is still precious because it represents a part of the history of the French luggage maker. The bag is still produced and looks exactly the same. Therefore, if you find one in good condition, no one will even notice that it is over 30 years old.
Handbag vintage Louis Vuitton Ellipse
The Ellipse is another iconic Louis Vuitton handbag that has been discontinued. It comes in PM (medium) and MM (large). Definitely reminiscent of the 90s, this vintage monogram bag was a huge hit between 1997 and 2003.
Only a few bags can boast of being as unique as the Ellipse. Those familiar with Louis Vuitton handbags will appreciate this beauty. On eBay, it’s less than $500.
Styles of vintage Louis Vuitton crossbody bags
Let’s take a look at vintage crossbody styles after reviewing LV bags UAE‘s most popular vintage handbags.
This section provides an overview of old-style authentic crossbody bags in Monogram canvas:
- Nile Messenger by Louis Vuitton
- A vintage Louis Vuitton Danube crossbody bag
- A vintage Louis Vuitton Monceau crossbody bag
- Louis Vuitton Saumur Satchel, vintage
Nile messenger bag by Louis Vuitton
A timeless unisex crossbody, Nile is no different from the messengers currently available on Louis Vuitton’s website. Even though the materials are durable, there is definitely a vintage flair. It will become an heirloom with this quality of canvas.
There are now two styles available for this messenger. The first version was released before the date code era, so there is no vachetta on the bottom. In the 1980s and 1990s, most of the next one was produced.
Having dimensions of W11.0″ x H8.3″ x D5.1″, this vintage Louis Vuitton messenger bag is spacious enough to become your favorite everyday designer bag. And best of all, it’s under $500, again on eBay.
A vintage Louis Vuitton Danube crossbody bag
Look no further if you’ve been struggling to find a compact crossbody that can fit only the essentials.
There are two versions of this cute daily companion. It belongs to the end of the 1970s, a pre-date code era (on the left), and does not have vachetta leather. The other one has vachetta and was mostly produced in the 1980s (on the right).
It’s hard to attribute this small crossbody to a specific year or decade since it’s so versatile. In addition to being timeless, the Danube is also very affordable.
A vintage Louis Vuitton Monceau crossbody bag
An iconic Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis bag, the Monceau is a vintage monogram bag with a crossbody strap. While bag names change, this silhouette remains timeless.
If you love the Pochette Metis silhouette, but want something more exquisite with a story, you need a Monceau.
Louis Vuitton Saumur Satchel, vintage
Saumur is a timeless vintage Louis Vuitton satchel that is sure to catch your eye. It looks just like any modern handbag with a bit of vintage flair. You will be able to find a vintage Saumur according to your budget and condition requirements on secondhand platforms.
A Saumur satchel has been in production since the 1980s and 1990s. You can find a nice option from a Japanese seller on eBay for less than $500 despite its age.
Louis Vuitton vintage shoulder bag styles
There are a variety of vintage Louis Vuitton totes and shoulder bags available. The following bags will be reviewed next:
- A vintage Louis Vuitton Neverfull Tote bag
- A vintage Louis Vuitton Cabas Piano/Mezzo bag
- Louis Vuitton Sac Weekend GM vintage
- Cousin PM/GM Louis Vuitton vintage
- Bucket shoulder bag vintage Louis Vuitton Noe
- Bucket shoulder bag vintage Louis Vuitton Sac Epoule
Let’s start with one of the most popular fashion houses’ handbags, a vintage Neverfull.
A vintage Louis Vuitton Neverfull Tote bag
As Louis Vuitton Neverfull was released only in 2007, there is no such thing as a vintage Neverfull, because vintage handbags are at least 20 years old. Yet.
It is worth noting, however, that Neverfull offers numerous limited editions that can sometimes be considered vintage. Explore 3000+ bags on eBay and find your dream bag from our list of Neverfull limited editions.
A vintage Louis Vuitton Cabas Piano/Mezzo bag
This is a classic shoulder bag in the iconic monogram canvas for anyone who wants just that. Your lifestyle can be accommodated by one of three sizes.
In contrast to most modern Louis Vuitton totes, a vintage Cabas costs around $300-400 for a purse in well-used condition. With such a smart purchase, you can save a lot of money!
Louis Vuitton Sac Weekend GM vintage
It is one of the few classic vintage totes without a vachetta. Since Louis Vuitton used a type of leather that had no patina at that time, the wear is barely noticeable.
If you compare the price to retail Louis Vuitton prices for a similar item ($1,500-S1,600), this vintage purse will cost you around $300-$400.
Cousin PM/GM Louis Vuitton vintage
Over time, Cousin changed its appearance.
The Cousin handbag is an outrageously expensive puffy envelope with a massive gold chain. However, that’s no longer the case.
Coussin used to be a stylish flat shoulder tote. Vintage Cousin shoulder totes look so fresh that it’s difficult to believe they are no longer produced. It reminds me of a more recent version of the Odeon crossbody bag.
Noe drawstring bag from Vintage Louis Vuitton
This vintage Louis Vuitton bucket bag dates back to the 60s-70s, with Noe bags in production since the 1930s. Bucket bags in good condition date back to the 80s and 90s, though.
Noe is another design masterpiece that pairs a classic silhouette with a variety of textures and prints. It is designed to hold up to five bottles of champagne. A vintage Noe is available in monogram canvas and Epi leather.
Bucket bag vintage Louis Vuitton Sac D’Epoule
Noe and Sac d’Epoule are very similar. You can choose between these two purses if you like vintage bucket bags. The Sac d’Epoule is more sophisticated, while the Noe carries the brand’s history and is more recognizable. Sac d’Epoule is only available in Epi leather.
Summary
Now that you’ve seen all the best vintage Louis Vuitton bags, you can choose the one that’s right for you. Don’t forget to authenticate the item before purchasing. Below you’ll find more information.
Issues with vintage Louis Vuitton bags’ interior linings
There are several things you need to know before purchasing a vintage Louis Vuitton purse.
The vintage monogram canvas is everlasting, as we mentioned earlier. The inside material, however, is not. Because these purses are over 20 years old, not only do they show more wear, but they can also surprise you.
The interior of a vintage purse usually looks like this. This purse is probably older than us, so it may be a bit dusty.
A vintage purse’s interior lining is one of its worst surprises. The surface layer starts to peel off. Sadly, it’s very hard to predict whether it will happen to your handbag or not if it’s an old handbag.
Whenever you purchase a vintage Louis Vuitton purse, ask your seller if the interior has been damaged. Additionally, we recommend checking the pockets specifically, since the surface layer there can become extremely sticky over time.
What is the value of vintage Louis Vuitton bags?
There may be issues with vintage Louis Vuitton handbags, but it’s still fascinating to see an accessory as old as you (or may be even older). Vintage appeals to people because of its story.
One of the reasons is that it’s fascinating. Vintage price quality ratio justifies any issues you may face as a community of handbag collectors and fashionistas. Vintage bags and accessories not only provide excellent value for money, but they also help to reduce our environmental impact. Vintage purchases are savvy, responsible purchases.
Authentication of vintage Louis Vuitton bags
Last year, 55% of designer bags we authenticated were fakes. It means two things, if you think about it. Over 50% of sellers who claim their item is authentic are actually selling fake items, consciously or unconsciously.
In addition, there is a 50% chance that a purse lover will end up wasting a lot of money on a replica instead of investing in a designer purse. Make sure you don’t give counterfeiters your hard-earned money.
With our free online date code/serial number checker, you can start authenticating vintage Louis Vuitton. We have 25+ years of experience with preloved luxury items, including Louis Vuitton brand items.
Authentication can be done in three ways:
Verbal Authentication
When you need to determine whether a bag is real or fake for yourself (e.g. when you are buying something)
Certificate of Authenticity
A certificate is useful when you need one for any reason, such as selling a bag with peace of mind or returning a fake bag to its seller
Certificate of Authenticity with a thorough explanation
If you need a certificate and want to know why the bag is authentic/not authentic, either sell the bag with peace of mind or to return a fake bag to the seller.
More than 10 pictures are included to explain why the bag is fake (detailed pictures and comparisons with an authentic bag).
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the benefits of buying vintage bags?
What is the quality of vintage leather?
If I don’t want the design anymore, can I remove the paint?
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The Most Popular Louis Vuitton Bags You Should Invest In Forever
Most likely, you already love Louis Vuitton (don’t we all?) and won’t need much convincing. You must have impeccable taste if that’s the case. Even then, choosing a style that suits your function and fulfills your fashion cravings is no easy task. Not because they’re difficult to find; quite the opposite, they’re all equally impossible to resist. Unless you can afford a bag from every collection (we wish), you’ve got a tough task ahead. We are here to assist you.
Bag styles have changed over the years. In spite of decades of volatile fashion trends, Louis Vuitton bags remain an affluent closet staple. After a lifetime of wear, the decadent designs are durable and can be passed down to future generations. The iconic prints pay homage to the travel industry’s history of revolutionary moves. The timeless versatility of silhouettes promises to be in fashion forever, although some will remain more popular than others.
As the House icon of LV, the Speedy remains one of the most popular bags to date. It is just right for Paris Fashion Week or a spontaneous romantic getaway. As a result, the Neverfull has become a worldwide coveted everyday accessory. Pochette Accessoires hit the sweet spot between pouch bag and purse with a stylish crossbody strap. These are just a few examples.
If you are thinking about buying your first LV bag or adding to your collection, you should consider investing in the endlessly popular LV bags UAE. In logic, the sooner you get one, the more value you’ll get.
Speedy by Louis Vuitton
There is no doubt that Louis Vuitton will always have a place at the top of our list of the most popular luxury brands. This designated House Icon is a shining example of why that is the case. The Speedy was designed as a response to the advancements in public transportation that took place in 1930. As a result of its compact design, it is lightweight and easy to carry around. The timeless silhouette, the leather rolled handles, as well as the signature engraved padlock epitomize the luxury associated with this time-honored fashion house.
For the brand’s signature look, opt for the original brown on brown Louis Vuitton monogram or the checked canvas bags for an authentic look. If you are looking for a trendy twist on the commuter’s classic, opt for the black leather Bandouliere crossbody Speedy. It is possible to choose the Bandouliere in royal blue and white for a fusion of contemporary chic and historical significance.
The Alma Bag by Louis Vuitton
Rumor has it that Coco Chanel bag organically designed the Alma. Even if it isn’t true, the dome construction remains one of the most influential handbags in the world. Since the 1930s, the timeless LV classic has been distinguished by its structured silhouette, sturdy base, and neat double handles.
Louis Vuitton’s Alma Bridge designer bag embodies the hustle and bustle of city life. Meanwhile, it stops appreciating the finer things in life (like fashion!)
Louis Vuitton Neverfull
Is it a challenge to never be full? Accepted. We love this popular LV bag for its spacious interior, which can accommodate a spare pair of shoes, snacks, and maybe even a ukulele. You may have different everyday essentials. Regardless, we’re betting on the Neverfull to live up to its name.
Featuring the brand’s iconic monogram or checked prints, the Louis Vuitton Neverfull is made of supple canvas. The roomy interior is available in a variety of colors, from raspberry pink to cherry red or beige.
Accessories for Louis Vuitton Pochettes
There’s nothing better than a Y2K mini crossbody bag with the iconic LV monogram. Designed to fit all the essentials without adding extra weight, this Louis Vuitton mini bag meets the elusive sweet spot between a purse and a pouch.
It is effortless to wear the all-black Louis Vuitton bag on a daily basis. Even so, we remain unapologetically biased towards the beige monogram and black leather silhouette. With the House’s signature gold chain, every passerby will be envious of your accessory.
Capucines by Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton’s first store on Paris’ Rue Neuve-des-Capucines inspired this handbag, which elevates the brand’s luxury with a touch of elegance à la française. Taurillon leather is used to craft the signature square silhouette.
There are two interior compartments and a removable shoulder strap. Its instantly-recognizable front flap can be worn inside or outside, showcasing either an elegant monogram flower or an exaggerated LV monogram.
Louis Vuitton Noe
When champagne meets Louis Vuitton, you know where to find us. Our favorite old Louis Vuitton bag style is this sturdy yet stylish bucket bag. This bottle was designed to address a key social issue—transporting bottles of bubbly—and epitomizes the decadence of the time with its malleable shape, generous volume, and drawstring style.
Checked or monogram canvas is the luxury brand’s iconic canvas. For an old-school classic with a contemporary twist, we love the large monogram print.
Petite Malle Louis Vuitton
A miniature take on Louis Vuitton vintage bags inspired by the classic retro trunk. Despite its compact design, it is deceivingly spacious. There are a variety of prints and colorways, each telling a different story.
Terracotta leather contrasts with white lines and a monogram print to evoke the clay courts of the French Open (aka Roland-Garros). Crocodile green takes us to the wild side. From day to night, Malletage’s signature pattern travels effortlessly.
Dauphine by Louis Vuitton
The Dauphine is the quintessential revival of the 1970s’ instantly recognizable rendition from the Spring/Summer Collection — but with a modern twist. A modern marriage of old-school romance and clean lines, the sumptuous silhouette features a foldover flap buckle closure and gold buckle.
The Neo-vintage style has quickly become one of Louis Vuitton’s most popular bags among fashion icons and It girls. This alluring accessory is enhanced by a removable gold chain. Color combinations remain timeless fashion statements.
Louis Vuitton OnTheGo
Our favorite designer work bag, the Louis Vuitton OnTheGo provides ample space for a laptop and other office essentials. With two Toron handles as well as long shoulder straps, this on-the-go tote is part of a range of stylish LV bags. In a variety of color combinations, the elegant exterior displays the luxury brand’s signature monogram.
The white monogram print contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green canvas silhouette. Taking inspiration from vintage wallpaper, the monogram flower print speaks to the brand’s timeless appeal. The beige oversized logo print contrasts beautifully with the red interior.
Louis Vuitton Twist
Let’s twist again like we did last summer-if this accessory had a soundtrack, this would be it. This contemporary understated design is accentuated by the signature LV hardware lock, twisted to secure your belongings. An avant-garde design is complemented by a chunky gold chain.
With its classical chic finesse, this versatile style transforms effortlessly from day to night.. In addition to the natural raffia silhouette, the Since 1854 emblazoned monogramming makes it the perfect addition to any capsule wardrobe.
Boite Chapeau Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton’s Boite Chapeau (we’ll let you guess the translation) is a hat box turned bag. The round, boxy, crossbody silhouette may no longer be used to hold hats, but it’s deceivingly spacious nonetheless.
The Louis Vuitton monogram bag pays homage to the fashion house’s travel heritage. Alternatively, the vibrant red version is a timeless interpretation of the dopamine trend.
Louis Vuitton Looping
Our top Louis Vuitton handbag will always be the Loop, which was released in 2002. According to the rest of the world, this is also true. Luxury House discontinued the minimalist style soon after it was born, but resale prices soared and it became an everyday essential.
The Loop Bag was introduced at the 2022 Cruise Show. Its iconic arched handles are paired with a chic half-moon silhouette for a contemporary take on a classic. Add a few signature gold chains. Louis Vuitton just upped the lux factor.
Keepall from Louis Vuitton
The Keepall was designed for spontaneous weekend getaways and city escapes in the 1930s. Louis Vuitton responded to changing times with a lightweight, durable, and effortlessly packable tote instead of cumbersome cases. Each bag includes a luggage tag, padlock, and handle buckle for smooth sailing.
As we’ve come to expect from LV bags, these are designed for more than just convenience. Airports and train stations are sure to notice elegantly alluring luggage.
Louis Vuitton Coussin
The Cousin of Louis Vuitton combines the latest trends with the brand’s historical significance. This decadent design named after the French word for cushion stands out due to its puffy lambskin silhouette. It’s no surprise that dopamine dressing is at the forefront of this season’s avant-garde accessories, since the Luxury House embraces this season’s trends. We’ve got your favorite Millennial pinks and Gen Z greens, along with timeless neutrals.
These classic Coussin crossbodies are the right size for everyday essentials. You can hit the town at night with the mini Pochette Coussin LV purses.
The Lockit by Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton’s Lockit is inspired by its 1958 version. It was originally designed as part of the iconic brand’s luggage collection, but now it’s adored as a quintessential everyday bag.
An elongated silhouette with a hint of understated attitude. A spacious interior accommodates everything you need for an on-the-go day. With a lock and luggage tag on the side, the sumptuous design reveals the history of the design.
Frequently asked questions