Did Louis Vuitton Make Luggage for Napoleon?

The Legend

There is a popular legend that Louis Vuitton, the founder of the eponymous fashion house, made luggage for the French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. According to the story, Napoleon was so impressed with Vuitton’s work that he appointed him as his personal box-maker and luggage packer.

The Truth

While this story makes for a great anecdote, there is no concrete evidence to support it. In fact, it’s highly unlikely that Louis Vuitton ever made luggage for Napoleon.

For starters, Vuitton was born in 1821, more than a decade after Napoleon’s death in 1821. Additionally, Vuitton did not start his own business until 1854 when he opened his first store in Paris. This means that even if Napoleon had commissioned Vuitton to make luggage, it would have been impossible for him to do so.

Another reason why this story is unlikely is that during Napoleon’s time, trunk makers were not highly regarded. Trunks were seen as utilitarian items and were only used by wealthy people when they traveled. It wasn’t until after Louis Vuitton started his business that luggage became a status symbol.

The Legacy

Despite there being no evidence to support the claim that Louis Vuitton made luggage for Napoleon, this legend has persisted through the years and has become part of the brand’s mythology.

Louis Vuitton’s association with luxury travel dates back to its early days when it specialized in making trunks and other travel accessories. Today, the brand is known worldwide as a symbol of luxury and sophistication.

Conclusion

While it’s a great story, the claim that Louis Vuitton made luggage for Napoleon is nothing more than a myth. However, this legend has played a significant role in shaping the brand’s image and is a testament to the power of storytelling.

Despite its dubious origins, the story of Louis Vuitton and Napoleon serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of luxury travel and the timeless elegance of well-crafted luggage.