Goyard Backpack

Few brands have stood the test of time as resolvedly as the French House of Goyard, a family-owned maker of luxury handbags, totes and accessories in chic and timeless styles and a vibrant array of colors. The internationally renowned bags were born out of the maison’s original business of making leather goods and other luxury travel wares — once the favorite of the French aristocracy, Goyard trunks are highly sought-after antiques today.

Originally known as House of Martin, the brand was founded in Paris in 1792 by trunk maker Pierre-François Martin. It quickly grew in distinction, and, in 1841, Martin hired and passed on the business to his employee, Louis-Henri Morel. In 1845, Morel himself hired a 17-year-old apprentice named François Goyard, who eventually took over and renamed the company Maison Goyard (House of Goyard).

François' son, Edmond Goyard, ushered the business into a new era when he became the head of the company in 1885. He focused increasingly on elite and international clientele to grow the brand's prestige. Edmond also created a "pet chic" line of Goyard dog collars and other accessories.

Perhaps the greatest accomplishment of the younger Goyard was the Goyard signature canvas, as seen on the iconic luxury Saint Louis tote. Durable, lightweight and waterproof, it features a distinctive "Y" pattern created from three chevrons or different shades. This revolutionary canvas laid the foundation for the modern brand.

A daring innovator, Edmond Goyard took the brand to the World Exposition of Paris in 1900 and won a bronze medal. Gold medals at the World Exposition of Milan and the Franco-British Exposition of London followed. Goyard continued showing at World Expos, bringing the house even more international acclaim and the attention of esteemed clientele like Pablo Picasso, John D. Rockefeller and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.

In 1998, the maison was purchased by passionate Goyard bag and trunk collector Jean-Michel Signoles. With the help of his family, he re-established the brand as a purveyor of luxury bags that continue to garner recognition.

Find unique Goyard purses, crossbody and messenger bags, top handle bags, wallets and other accessories on 1stDibs.

Vintage and designer backpacks do more than carry our books, notebooks, electronic devices and other possessions to and fro. They are also a reflection of personal taste and style. Whether it’s an understated solid color — black backpacks will remain forever timeless — or it’s emblazoned with a dazzling graphic pattern or an iconic fashion house’s logo, a backpack makes a statement.

In 1908, decades before the JanSports and Eastpaks of the world materialized, Norwegian Ole Bergan crafted the first backpack, whittling and shaping a juniper branch to support a robust canvas rucksack on his back. Twenty-five years later, the patent on Bergan’s wildly convenient and functional accessory expired, and backpacks became popular with hikers, campers and other outdoor enthusiasts as other designers and companies scrambled to develop their own iterations. During the late 1930s, the first zippered backpack appeared — for students, it was a significant improvement over carrying their books with a leather belt.

Some designer backpacks are sleek and sporty, while others attract attention with flashy brass hardware and a textured exterior flap. While the innumerable handbag lovers of our modern times continue to gravitate toward iconic labels — classic bags still rule — today’s shoppers are savvier and have a wider range of shopping options. Backpacks designed by universally renowned brands such as Gucci, Dior and Burberry are similarly alluring when it comes to finding the perfect carryall.

Heavy-duty nylon backpacks or those made with polyester are likely the most common, but many alternatives can be found in canvas, leather and suede. The best backpack for you might be one that is modest in size and discreet, and thus ideal for carrying a few items. If that sounds like what you need, explore crossbody bags and messenger bags, as they’re a bit easier to access and you don’t have to remove the bag to get to its contents. Others may seek a bag that is spacious enough to fit all of the supplies for an overnight hike, in which case, a sturdy, structured backpack might be a better fit.

Whether it is for fashion, function or both, there is a backpack suited to every individual. Find yours in the extensive collection of vintage and designer backpacks on 1stDibs.