The story behind iconic luxury brand Louis Vuitton — best known for its esteemed handbags, crossbody bags, leather goods, ready-to-wear clothing and more — is one of craft and innovation in the worlds of fashion, jewelry and furniture.
The company’s modest origins can be traced back to when its founder, Louis Vuitton (1821–92), wishing to free himself from the conventional lifestyle in his provincial French city of Anchay as well as a difficult stepmother, left in the early 1830s to make a new life in Paris. The young Vuitton was 13 at the time and would need to travel on foot to get to the capital, which was hundreds of miles away. With stops along the way to make money so that he could forge ahead, the journey took a couple of years, but reward was close at hand.
When he arrived in Paris, Vuitton made a living with his hands. He toiled as a box maker and packer for more than a decade and built relationships with royals and members of the upper class while working for the empress of France, Eugenie de Montijo. In 1854, Vuitton launched his namesake company. The craftsman opened a humble workshop on rue Neuve des Capucines and advertised his services with a small poster that read: “Securely packs the most fragile objects. Specializing in packing fashions.”
Long before his brand would become known globally for its exemplary top-handle bags and stylish totes, Vuitton produced stackable and rectangular trunks. The most common trunks of the era were round, which weren’t ideal for toting and storing. In 1858, Vuitton debuted his lightweight, handcrafted canvas trunks, which were sturdy, rugged and equipped with convenient compartments. Travel’s popularity broadened in the late 19th century, and Vuitton’s trunks could easily be packed into train cars and ships — upright trunks meant hanging wardrobe storage that would allow his clients to transport their sophisticated garments without worry. Demand increased and the company grew. When Louis Vuitton died in 1892, control of the luxury house was passed onto his only son, Georges Vuitton.
In 1914, a Louis Vuitton store opened at 70 Champs-Élysées. The largest travel-goods store in the world at the time, it became the company’s flagship.
The Louis Vuitton brand embodies all the attributes of luxury, from the craftsmanship, exclusivity and relevance to heritage. It’s only appropriate that it boasts one of the most recognizable insignias — the imaginative interlocking of letters and fleurettes — in the fashion world. The famous LV monogram was first used in 1896 as part of an initiative by Georges to prevent counterfeiting of his coveted new line of travel trunks. It’s one of the earliest examples of fashion branding.
The LV monogram would soon appear on everything from bags and various fashion accessories to alligator-skin champagne cases, from stylish apparel and earrings to teddy bears and airplane models.
On 1stDibs, the unmistakable insignia can be found on both modern and vintage Louis Vuitton shoulder bags, suitcases, original 19th-century trunks, jackets and more.
Black leather bag with embossed monogramme and double strap LOUIS VUITTON
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Black leather bag with embossed monogramme and double strap, one in gold metal chain, one in detachable leather. Orange suede lining. Zip closure on the top front with branded zip pu...
Theda monogramme leather bag LOUIS VUITTON
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Theda monogramme leather bag. Beige suede lining. Adjustable shoulder strap . Branded studs. One flat pocket inside. SIZE : 34cm X 20cm
LOUIS VUITTON white & silver Monogram leather TIME OUT Sneakers Shoes 38
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton Time Out sneaker is crafted in white leather featuring an all-over debossed silver Monogram pattern for a subtle yet striking finish. It showcases r...
Vintage Alma Unisex Bag 39x18x29 cm in Timeless Design - Antique Style
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Capri, IT
Louis Vuitton red patent leather Alma bag red patent leather and gold tone hardware measurements: 39*18*29 cm
Louis Vuitton Calfskin Lockme Ever MM Top Handle
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Houston, TX
Fresh and artistic, Louis Vuitton remains one of the world's most coveted symbols of status and sophistication. The Damier pattern was designed in 1888 and the Monogram, in 1896. Ove...
A 2006 Louis Vuitton Monogram Coated Canvas and Leather Bucket GM Tote Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Aci Castello, IT
This Louis Vuitton Monogram Bucket GM is a timeless piece of fashion history, showcasing the brand’s iconic coated canvas and architectural silhouette. As the larger version of the B...
LOUIS VUITTON brown Monogram Canvas PETITE BOITE CHAPEAU Shoulder Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton Petite Boîte Chapeau is a modern reinterpretation of the House’s iconic hatbox, crafted in classic coated Monogram canvas with natural cowhide leath...
LOUIS VUITTON white leather TRAINER Sneakers Shoes 37.5
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton LV Trainer sneaker by Virgil Abloh is crafted in cream grained leather with white smooth leather panels, sho...
LOUIS VUITTON Vintage Saint Jacques Toledo Blue Epi Leather Handbag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Nice, FR
LOUIS VUITTON Saint Jacques Toledo Blue Epi Leather Handbag. Bag features : - Iconic Louis Vuitton Saint Jacques design - Rich Toledo blue Epi leather ...
$4,114Sale Price|20% Off
2007 Louis Vuitton limited edition silver monogram miroir lock it pm bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Capri, IT
Louis Vuitton limited editio silver monogram miroir lock it pm bag ultra shiny monogram mirrorenyl with patent leather trim and a lock it from 2007 collection measurements: 9.4 l x 4...
Louis Vuitton Monogram Empreinte Montaigne GM Satchel
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Houston, TX
Fresh and artistic, Louis Vuitton remains one of the world's most coveted symbols of status and sophistication. The Damier pattern was designed in 1888 and the Monogram, in 1896. Ove...
Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Speedy 25 Satchel
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Houston, TX
Fresh and artistic, Louis Vuitton remains one of the world's most coveted symbols of status and sophistication. The Damier pattern was designed in 1888 and the Monogram, in 1896. Ove...
LOUIS VUITTON navy blue / pink Taurillon leather CAPUCINES MM Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton Capucines MM Taurillon Leather Bag is crafted from supple navy Taurillon leather, finished with ...
Louis Vuitton Sac Weekend GM in Monogram Canvas, The French Co.
By Louis Vuitton
Located in New York, NY
Chic, practical Louis Vuitton Sac Weekend GM in Monogram Canvas with Leather Trim from the 1980s. Unsigned, likely made by the French Co, a US collaboration with Vuitton in the perio...
LOUIS VUITTON gold-tone ALZER SUITCASE MIRROR Key Chain Bag Charm
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton Alzer key ring is crafted in gold-tone metal and features a miniature suitcase pendant in Monogram canvas with a contrasting stripe down the center....
LOUIS VUITTON Damier Cobalt Pegase Legere Business 55 rolling travel luggage
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Hong Kong, NT
LOUIS VUITTON Damier Cobalt Pegase Legere Business 55 rolling travel luggage Reference: JHDN/A00140 Brand: Louis Vuitton Model: Pégase Légère Business 55 Material: Canvas, Leather...
LOUIS VUITTON olive green Monogram suede BOM DIA SLIDE Sanals Shoes 38
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton Bom Dia flat comfort mule is crafted in olive green suede goat leather, elegantly detailed with Monogram perfor...
Louis Vuitton Giant Reverse Monogram Onthego PM Tote
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Houston, TX
Fresh and artistic, Louis Vuitton remains one of the world's most coveted symbols of status and sophistication. The Damier pattern was designed in 1888 and the Monogram, in 1896. Ove...
LOUIS VUITTON brown Monogram canvas INSOLITE Wallet
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton Insolite wallet in classic Ebene and olive Monogram Canvas is a refined blend of elegance and functionality. Accented with gold-tone hardware, it op...
Louis Vuitton Monogram Vernis Alma PM Satchel
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Houston, TX
Fresh and artistic, Louis Vuitton remains one of the world's most coveted symbols of status and sophistication. The Damier pattern was designed in 1888 and the Monogram, in 1896. Ove...
Louis Vuitton Knit Monogram Horizon Soft 55 Suitcase Roller Grey
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Salt Lake Cty, UT
Authentic Louis Vuitton Knit Monogram Horizon Soft 55 rolling suitcase. Features lightweight black and grey Louis Vuitton monogram on thermoform knit fabric, front zipper pocket, 360...
DAUPHINE monogramme leather bag with chain shoulder strap LOUIS VUITTON
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
DAUPHINE monogramme leather bag with detachable chain shoulder strap. Chain lenght = 66cm. Dust bag provided. Magnet closure under the top flap. One inside pocket with zip closure. ...
Louis Vuitton Vintage Monogram Canvas Speedy 25 Satchel
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Houston, TX
Fresh and artistic, Louis Vuitton remains one of the world's most coveted symbols of status and sophistication. The Damier pattern was designed in 1888 and the Monogram, in 1896. Ove...
LOUIS VUITTON black Monogram Empreinte MULTI POCHETTE ACCESSOIRES Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton Multi Pochette Accessoires bag in black Monogram Empreinte leather offers a modern, versatile take on a classic silhouette. Designed ...
Louis Vuitton 2008 Sz 36.5 Marc Jacobs White Patent Bow Peep-Toe Platform Pumps
By Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton
Located in San Diego, CA
These Louis Vuitton 2008, by Marc Jacobs, white patent bow peep-toe platform pumps are a rare find in pristine condition. Designed with a gloss...
A 2001 Louis Vuitton Red Vernis Patent Leather Houston Tote Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Aci Castello, IT
This classic Louis Vuitton Houston tote bag is crafted from striking red Monogram Vernis patent leather, beautifully embossed with the iconic monogram motif that catches the light wi...
LOUIS VUITTON x MURAKAMI brown 2005 Monogram Cerises Coin Wallet
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami Monogram Cerises Coin Wallet from the 2005 collection is a playful collectible piece that blends iconic Louis Vuitton craftsmansh...
LOUIS VUITTON black & brown Monogram Canvas GAIA Hobo Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton Gaia hobo bag is crafted from classic Ebene brown Monogram canvas with black leather gussets and trims, complemented by a natural vachetta handle fo...
Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 Damier Ebene
By Louis Vuitton
Located in West Hollywood, CA
The Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 Damier Ebene is a stylish and luxurious handbag designed for women. Made with canvas exterior material...
2000s Louis Vuitton Josephine Bordeau Monogram Hand-Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Aci Castello, IT
This elegant Louis Vuitton Josephine PM is a refined take on the classic doctor-style satchel, featuring the sophisticated Monogram Mini Lin canvas in a rich bordeaux cerise colorway...
Vuitton Lim Ed. Nano Speedy New Yitian
By Louis Vuitton
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This exclusive Nano Speedy bag is part of a collaboration between the artist Sun Yitian, known for her colorful paintings of mass-produced toys, and Louis Vuitton Artistic Director N...
Louis Vuitton New Nano Raffia Speedy
By Louis Vuitton
Located in West Hollywood, CA
This exclusive interpretation of the Nano Speedy bag is crafted from pure natural raffia, which is crocheted by hand by Madagascan artisans. The design is complemented by leather tri...
Louis Vuitton Pillow Boot Water Repellent Nylon & Monogram Canvas 40 NEW
By Louis Vuitton
Located in New York, NY
GUARANTEED 100% AUTHENTIC WITH ORIGINAL RECIPT INCLUDED LOUIS VUITTON ANKLE SNOW & RAIN BOOT WATER REPELLENT NYLON & MONOGRAM CANVAS SIZE 40.PLEASE CHECK THE SIZING IN LV BEFORE P...
LOUIS VUITTON black Epi leather AMBASSADOR Briefcase Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic vintage Louis Vuitton Ambassador briefcase in black Epi leather is a timeless business accessory that combines sophistication with exceptional functionality. Craf...
LOUIS VUITTON Rouge Fauvist pink Monogram Denim SUNBEAM Bag Limited Edition
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Louis Vuitton Monogram Denim Sunbeam Bag in pink gradient monogram denim canvas with natural cowhide leather trim, magenta nylon handles and a spacious interior lined ...
Louis Vuitton x Jeff Koons Manet Neverfull MM Tote
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Part of the highly coveted 2017 "Masters Collection," this limited-edition Neverfull MM features Édouard Manet’s famous 1863 masterpiece Luncheon on the Grass (Le Déjeuner sur l'he...
Louis Vuitton Nice Mini Vanity Case Monogram Canvas Beauty Bag Brown - Preowned
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Louis Vuitton Nice Mini Vanity Case Monogram Canvas Beauty Bag Brown - Preowned The Louis Vuitton Nice Mini is a beloved travel classic — a structured vanity case in iconic Monogra...
Louis Vuitton Mahina Lunar Pm beige perforated shoulder bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Capri, IT
Louis Vuitton Mahina Lunar Pm beige perforated shoulder bag measurements: 37 w * 21 h * 14 d
Louis Vuitton Black Oversized Oval Sunglasses with Gold Hardware
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Amman, JO
Louis Vuitton Black Oversized Oval Sunglasses with Gold Hardware Elevate your everyday style with these authentic Louis Vuitton oversized sunglasses. Crafted from glossy black aceta...
LOUIS VUITTON Sirius 70 brown LV monogram canvas large travel bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Hong Kong, NT
LOUIS VUITTON Sirius 70 brown LV monogram canvas large travel bag Reference: AEMA/A00080 Brand: Louis Vuitton Model: Sirius 70 Material: Canvas, Leather Color: Brown, Beige Pattern: ...
2009 Louis Vuitton Wilshire Pm Red patent leather handle bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Capri, IT
2009 Louis Vuitton Wilshire Pm Red patent leather handle bag red patent leather gold tone hardware measurements: 33 cm, x 12 cm x 16 cm ...
Malle Louis Vuitton Penderie grand modèle circa 1960-70
By Louis Vuitton
Located in SÈVRES, FR
Malle Louis Vuitton penderie grand modèle des années 1960–1970 en toile monogramme. Excellent état. Peut être utilisée debout ou en table basse. Maison : Louis Vuitton Modèle : Mall...
Louis Vuitton Black Bustier Tank and Skirt Set with Bow Detail at Shoulders
By Louis Vuitton
Located in San Francisco, CA
Louis Vuitton black shirt and skirt set. Tank features a bubble style hem and bows at each shoulder with pleat detailing at bust. Seam detail at back. Top fastens at back with hook a...
$2,307Sale Price|20% Off
Louis Vuitton Vintage Speedy Unisex Top Handle Bag in Monogram Canvas
By Stephen Sprouse, Louis Vuitton
Located in Capri, IT
Louis Vuitton by Stephen Sprouse Limited Edition Lace Roses Speedy A unique speedy embellished by the artist Stephen Sprouse with white silverish lace roses all over on the classic m...
LOUIS VUITTON Rubis red Taurillon leather CAPUCINES BB PYTHON Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Louis Vuitton Capucines BB bag in Rubis red full-grain Taurillon leather, it features a distinctive flap which can be wor...
Black patent leather plateform sandal with ankle strap Louis Vuitton
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Black patent leather plateform sandal with ankle strap and buckle. Heels height : 13 cm Plateform : 3 cm SHOE SIZE 37 / 6 US
LOUIS VUITTON black LV logo monogram raised lace drawstring short dress XS
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Hong Kong, NT
LOUIS VUITTON black LV logo monogram raised lace drawstring waist short sleeved dress XS Reference: TGAS/G00036 Brand: Louis Vuitton Material: Viscose, Blend Color: Black Pattern: Mo...
Louis Vuitton Damier Ebene Keepall 55 Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Salt Lake Cty, UT
Authentic Louis Vuitton Keepall 55 in brown Damier Ebene canvas with shoulder strap. This Keepall 55 is designed with LV's Damier Ebene canvas with brown leather trim and gold-tone h...
Purple "épis" leather top handle bag LOUIS VUITTON
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Purple "épis" leather top handle bag . Silver metal Clasp closure on the middle front. Zip closure on the top. Keys, key-holder and locker. Pocket on the back. 2 flat pocket inside. ...
LOUIS VUITTON Ebene brown Damier canvas NEVERFULL PM Tote Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton Neverfull PM tote combines timeless design with iconic heritage details. Crafted from elegant Damier Ebene canvas with natural cowhide trim, it offe...
A 1993 Louis Vuitton Jena Black Epi Leather Clutch in Excellent Condition
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Aci Castello, IT
This sleek Louis Vuitton Jena clutch bag is an elegant and minimalist evening accessory expertly crafted from the house's signature durable textured Black Epi leather. The architectu...
Ladies Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Neverfull GM Tote Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Houston, TX
Brand: Louis Vuitton Gender: Ladies Measurements: (W x H x D): 17.50" x 12.50" x 6.50" Total Weight: 520.00 grams Ladies Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Neverfull GM Tote Bag. Engr...
$2,291Sale Price|20% Off
Louis Vuitton Small Pharmacie Make up Trunk
By Louis Vuitton
Located in PARIS, FR
A timeless Louis Vuitton Monogram Beauty Case, expertly crafted in the iconic Monogram coated canvas with natural leather trim and solid brass hardware. This elegant travel case feat...
1997 Louis Vuitton Montsouris Centenarie Monaco Red Epi backpack
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Capri, IT
1997 Louis Vuitton Montsouris Centenarie Monaco Red Epi backpack Louis Vuitton Epi Montsouris MM Monaco Park 700th Anniversary Castilian Limited Edi...
Louis Vuitton x Stephen Sprouse Graffiti Keepall 50 Unisex Duffel Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in London, GB
From the Louis Vuitton x Stephen Sprouse Collection Ultra-limited series Top zip fastening Two top handles Adjustable detachable shoulder strap Gold hardware Includes padlock, keys, ...
LOUIS VUITTON white Mahina leather ONATHA GM Hobo Shoulder Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Louis Vuitton Onatha GM Hobo in off-white Mahina leather with cognac leather trimming and off-white brown canvas shoulder strap. Opens with a tassel zipper on top and ...
Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas CarryAll PM Shoulder Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Houston, TX
Fresh and artistic, Louis Vuitton remains one of the world's most coveted symbols of status and sophistication. The Damier pattern was designed in 1888 and the Monogram, in 1896. Ove...
Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Montaigne MM Tote
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Houston, TX
Fresh and artistic, Louis Vuitton remains one of the world's most coveted symbols of status and sophistication. The Damier pattern was designed in 1888 and the Monogram, in 1896. Ove...
Louis Vuitton OnTheGo MM Wild at Heart Monogram Empreinte Giant
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Capri, IT
Louis Vuitton OnTheGo MM Wild at Heart Monogram Empreinte Giant Borsa a mano e/o spalla Louis Vuitton modello Onthego GM Limited Edition Jungle, fodera in alcantara e parti metallic...
LOUIS VUITTON Ecru leather LV BLISS Slide Sandals Shoes 38
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton LV Bliss Comfort Mules are crafted from premium materials and feature wide front straps in ecru canvas, printed with an oversized Louis Vuitton sign...