The Louis Vuitton monogram is a print we all know and love. Carefully crafted from durable, brown canvas, Louis Vuitton's embossed, classic interwoven "LV" has remained the brand's signature since 1896. Also featuring diamonds, circles and flowers printed on the coated canvas, it is the most internationally recognized monogram of all time. The logo was originally created by Georges Vuitton, son of Mr. Louis Vuitton himself, as a way to brand their family luggage business. Immensely acclaimed in the world of fashion, over 120 years later the signature monogram is still the first image to cross your mind when you hear the name "Louis Vuitton."
Although the monogram is without a doubt the most popular and in-demand print when it comes to LV accessories, it does have some close competition. In 1998, Louis Vuitton introduced the canvas print called the Damier Ebène, which became an instant classic. Contrary to popular belief, the original Damier Ebène, once called the Damier Canvas, was first created in 1888 - before the signature LV monogram. 100 years later, it was reintroduced and took the world by storm. The brown, checkered pattern became just as recognizable as the monogram print, but without the logo branding - making it one of the biggest successes in Louis Vuitton history.
In 2006, a new interpretation of the Damier Ebène canvas was introduced to the fashion lovers of the world; the Damier Azur. Opposed to the Ebène's brown checks, the Azur's checks are white and grey. Inspired by the French Riviera, the fresher and lighter new checks were an instant success. The Azur collection featured products in the exciting new colour palette ranging from every day bags, totes and luggage.
Following the triumphant success of the Damier Azur, the Damier Graphite debuted in 2008. The signature check print was now available in black and grey and is the most discreet of the three prints. Created in honour of Louis Vuitton's 120th anniversary, it was only released in men's accessories and leather goods due to it's masculine aesthetic.
2003 came along and Louis Vuitton collaborated with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami, thus the Mulitcolore Monogram was born. Murakami is acclaimed for his playful and colourful work, making him one of Japan's leading artists in neo-pop art. The classic "LV" logo was now displayed in 33 different colours on black or white canvas. A beloved line in the early 2000s, it was unfortunately discontinued in 2015.
Whether you love or hate Louis Vuitton's signature prints, it doesn't really matter. Timeless and rooted in history, each pattern comes with a story. It's significance is not just important to the brand, but to fashion itself, hence why LV canvas prints will always remain a classic. It's true what they say - legends really do never die.
By: Isabel de Carteret
