If you’re a fan of luxury fashion, then you’ve undoubtedly heard of the iconic brand Louis Vuitton. Known for their high-quality leather goods and signature monogram pattern, Louis Vuitton has become one of the most recognizable names in the fashion world. However, have you ever wondered which bag was the very first Louis Vuitton?
Well, let’s dive into the history of this prestigious brand to find out.
The Beginnings of Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton was founded in 1854 by a French businessman named..you guessed it.Louis Vuitton. At the time, Vuitton was working as a trunk maker and packer for wealthy Parisians who were traveling long distances. However, he quickly realized that traditional trunks were not suitable for long journeys on horse-drawn carriages and trains.
Vuitton set out to create a new type of luggage that would be both lightweight and durable. He designed a canvas trunk with a flat top and bottom that could be easily stacked in train compartments. This new design was revolutionary at the time and quickly became popular among wealthy travelers.
The First Louis Vuitton Bag
While Louis Vuitton’s original canvas trunk was groundbreaking, it wasn’t until 1892 that the brand released its first bag – the ‘Louis Vuitton Steamer Bag.’ The steamer bag was designed for passengers traveling on steamships and was meant to be carried on board rather than packed away in cargo holds.
The steamer bag featured LV’s signature monogram canvas pattern with leather trim and handles. It also had brass hardware and a lockable closure – features that would become synonymous with Louis Vuitton bags.
Why Was It Such A Big Deal?
The release of the steamer bag marked an important milestone for Louis Vuitton as it marked their first foray into creating smaller, more portable bags. This move was important because it opened up new markets for the brand and allowed them to cater to a wider range of customers.
The steamer bag was also notable for its innovative design. It featured a flat bottom that allowed it to stand upright, which was a departure from traditional bags that would topple over when placed on the ground. This design made it easier for travelers to access their belongings without having to hold the bag up at all times.
The Legacy of the Steamer Bag
Today, the steamer bag has become an iconic piece of fashion history and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. While Louis Vuitton has released countless bags since then, the steamer bag remains an important part of their legacy.
In fact, in 2014, Louis Vuitton released a limited edition collection called ‘The Icon and The Iconoclasts’ which featured reimagined versions of their classic bags designed by six famous artists including Karl Lagerfeld and Christian Louboutin. One of these designs was a modern take on the original steamer bag.
Conclusion
So there you have it – while Louis Vuitton’s original canvas trunk may have been their first product, it was the release of the ‘Louis Vuitton Steamer Bag’ in 1892 that marked their first venture into creating smaller, more portable bags. This innovative design paved the way for countless other iconic Louis Vuitton bags that we know and love today.