The Louis Vuitton Speedy is a bag we all know and love. A iconic piece from one of the world's most historic fashion houses, the Speedy was in fact the very first handbag from Louis Vuitton. Rich in history, the Speedy is a signature for the brand. It has, and always will, remain a timeless piece that will never go out of style.
The Monogram logo is most internationally recognized print of all time. Originally designed in 1896 by Georges Vuitton (Louis Vuitton's son) the monogram logo was a way to brand their flowering mix and luggage business. Over 120 years later, the primitive logo is still immensely acclaimed in the world of fashion. The first image you think of when you hear the name "Louis Vuitton," it doesn't matter if you love it or hate it, what matters is that you know it. Along with the acclaimed monogram logo, two other iconic signatures for Louis Vuitton. The Damier Ebene and the Damier Azure prints, both inspired by a checkers board, are almost as popular nowadays as the monogram logo.
The Speedy marks one of the most significant turning points in Louis Vuitton's history. The brand was still a luxury luggage house famous for their trunks and oversized travel bags. In 1930, Georges Vuitton invented the "Keepall," an overnight bag embellished with the brand's signature logo. The ideal travel bag for the upper class, the Keepall was so popular that Georges introduced a smaller version for every day usage. Thus, the Speedy was born and released to the elite, fashion lovers of the world in 1932. Although, some tend to argue that the Speedy really became an "It-Bag" when Audrey Hepburn was seen carrying one in the 1960s.
Originally offered in the 30cm size, the Speedy is now available in four different sizes; the 25, 30, 35, and 40. Of course, the Speedy in the monogram print is the most popular and in-demand, but if you prefer to go against the grain, there are endless alternatives. There have been countless versions of the Speedy throughout the years as each creative director of LV has re-imagined it in some way. Over time, the Speedy was available in several different materials including Nomade leather, Black Multicolore, White Multicolore, Empreinte, Epi and Idylle canvas.
Introduced in 2011, a new and improved Speedy was presented to the world - the Bandouliere. The original Speedy was designed to be carried on the arm - however, the modern, on-the-go woman needed a more accessible bag that offered handsfree usage. The Speedy Bandouliere was the perfect option. By adding a shoulder strap, women could easily carry their every day bag on their shoulder as they went about their day. In addition to the shoulder strap, the Bandouliere also features a dual zipper closure and leather trimmings up the sides of the bag.
At the beginning of 2015, Louis Vuitton made some changes to their regular Speedy bag. Although the changes were very minimal, devoted LV clients could tell the differences. On the Old Speedy, the leather connecting the bag's handle are flat and the stitching is located untie brass rivet. The New Speedy shows the leather is more prominent with a puffier appearance and the stitching is now located above the rivet. Another slight difference is the back of the leather on the zipper pull, which is now lined with leather.
The popular canvas is designed to be waterproof, scuff proof, and tear proof. Given how durable it is, there really isn't much that could seriously damage the Speedy. It is a sleek, simple, and sophisticated bag - ideal for every day use by combining the perfect mix of fashion and function. Carry a beautiful piece that comes with a valuable story rooted in history, while remaining effortlessly chic. No handbag collection is really complete without a Louis Vuitton Speedy, so get yours now!
Shop Louis Vuitton bags here