Designer Bag Directory : Louis Vuitton Date Stamp Codes

You may have noticed that most Louis Vuitton bags and wallets have a series of numbers and/or letters imprinted somewhere on the inside. Louis Vuitton handbags have "date codes" stamped either on interior tags or directly on the interior linings. These date codes simply serve to identify the manufacturing location and date for a Louis Vuitton handbag, not to verify it's authenticity. All authentic Louis Vuitton handbags since the early 1980's have date codes. Date codes are a series of numbers and letters that represent the date the bag was made and the factory where it was made. These date codes are all font specific. This means that they are all done in a font specific to Louis Vuitton. Let me share with you what those letters and numbers mean.

If there is no date code found anywhere on the inside of your Louis Vuitton bag or wallet, there may be two reasons for this. Firstly, the item could have been manufactured before 1980's, when there was only ‘LOUIS VUITTON’ stamping instead. Or, secondly, if the inside lining is of a soft material, the date code can be worn off.

Early 1980s



Louis Vuitton started stamping some bags in the early 1980s. A date code from this time period could consist of 3 or 4 numbers. Three numbers with the first two numbers representing the year and the last number(s) representing the month of manufacture. As per example above, we know that the date code represents  manufacturing occurred in 1983 of the 4th month of the year.

1980s



For some 1980s and for all bags 1987-1989, the date code will be 3 or 4 numbers followed by 2 letters. The first two numbers indicate the year and the last number indicates the month. The two letters indicate the factory or location of where the bag was made. Please refer to the country codes below for corresponding letters.

Example, the date code in the above picture reads 8907 VI. This date code stands for 1989 in the 7th month of the year. The bag was constructed in France, as VI represents a factory located in France.

1990-2006



From 1990 to 2006, date codes are 2 letters followed with 4 numbers. The letters represent the factory, the first and third numbers represent the month and the second and fourth number represents the year. 

Using the image above as an example, FL1003 stands for United States due to the FL. 10 represents the 10th month (October), and 03 stands for 2003.

2007-Current



Two letters followed by four numbers. The letters indicate the factory. The first and third numbers indicate the week of the year and the second and fourth numbers indicate year of manufacturing.

Using the above example, CA4171, we know that this item was made in Spain, due to the CA. And, it was constructed in the 47th week of the year 2011.

For our reference, let's look at the LV Country Code Letters.

Louis Vuitton Country Code Letters

France - A0, A1, A2, AA, AAS, AH, AN, AR, AS, BA, BJ, BU, DR, DT, DU, CO, CT, ET, FL, LW, MB, MI, NO, RA, RI, SA, SD, SF, SL, SN, SP, SR, TJ, TH, TN, TR, TS, VI, VX

Italy - BC, BO, CE, FO, MA, PL, RC, RE, SA, TD

United States - FC, FH, LA, OS, SD, FL

Spain - CA, LO, LB, LM, LW, GI

Switzerland - DI, FA

Germany - LP

Louis Vuitton introduces new country codes over time. If your bag dates are very much newer, there is a highly likelihood that the country code may not be updated in the above list. Then, you may need to check with LV Customer Service for more details. 

Designer Bag Directory : Louis Vuitton Handbag Size

If you are a Louis Vuitton (LV) fan, you'll notice that LV always refer to acronyms and sometimes a number system to size their bags. To complete our full understanding in LV Handbags, I will share with you what the acronyms - BB, PM, MM, and GM are.

Neverfull Bags in PM, MM, GM.

Speedy Bags in 25, 30 and 35.

1. BB - Bebe Bandouliere (Baby Shoulder)

 

BB bags are the smallest compared to their counterpart PM, MM, and GM bags. Most BB bags are slightly larger than a 10 inch classic Chanel double flap bag. This baby is the right size for day use, yet small enough to double as an evening bag, with a removable strap that can be worn bandolier-style.

For example, the Alma BB is approximately 9 x 7.5 x 4.3 inches and can easily hold a small-medium wallet, sunglasses, keys, phone, tissues, and several pieces of makeup.

2. PM - Petite Modele (Small Model)

 The next size up from BB is PM, which stands for "Petite Modele." It means "small model" in French. However, many PM bags can be medium to large-sized.

  

For instance, the Alma PM measures 12.6 x 9.4 x 6 inches and is considerably bigger than an Alma BB bag.

An Alma PM bag can easily hold a medium to large wallet, sunglasses, phone, keys, tissues, full-size lotion, water bottle, snacks, small notebook and many more! Not all PM bags are around this size. Some PM bags with long shoulder straps will look significantly smaller.

3. MM - Moyen Modele (Medium Model)

Next size after PM is MM. MM stands for Medium Model. The MM and PM are the most popular sizes for Louis Vuitton handbags. PM is popular among bags with handles and without shoulder straps whilst the MM seems to be the most popular for most shoulder tote bags like the Neverfull. Some MM bags like the Lockit MM and Totally MM can even support small laptops.

For example, the Alma MM is 14.2 x 11 x 6.7 inches and is bigger than an Alma PM or Alma BB. An Alma MM bag will hold about the same amount of stuff as a Celine mini bag. It can comfortably hold a large wallet, sunglasses, phone, keys, tissues, full-size lotion, water bottle, snacks, small notebook and even a huge DSLR camera!

4. GM - Grand Modele (Large Model)

Finally, the largest size of them all is the GM. Some GM bags can be considered as an extra-large bag. And, some GM bags can even be used as light travel bags due to their huge capacity to hold.

Example, the biggest Alma, the Alma GM handbag measures 15 x 11 x 7 inches and is larger than the BB, PM, and MM Alma. An Alma GM bag can hold a large wallet, sunglasses, phone, keys, tissues, full-size lotion, water bottle, snacks, ipad, small laptop, shoes, camera and a change of clothing for an overnight stay! 

Side by side comparison of Alma Bags in BB, PM, MM and GM.

 

Well, in my opinion LV make huge bags, so the largest size (GM) is always really big for me. That's why I always opt for the smallest size (PM) as I am petite myself. I also think that PM is not that small size at all. I think it's perfect for all sizes. However, it all depends on on how tall or large you are and how much stuff you need to carry. LV also don't make all three sizes in all bags, thus, sometimes you don't get this much of choices. So ladies, which size suits you best?

Designer Bag Directory : The Louis Vuitton Speedy Bag

The story of Louis Vuitton begins all the way back in 1835 when a young boy set off on foot to Paris to find work. Twenty years later that boy opened Louis Vuitton Malletier, a small company crafting travel bags and luggage, and one of the world's most iconic luxury brands was born. The Speedy bag is an integral part of the Louis Vuitton story as it was the first handbag that the brand created.First conceptualized in the early 1930s as Vuitton’s first bag intended for daily carry, the bag was based on another LV classic: the Keepall.

This smaller version of the keepall bag which Georges Vuitton introduced in 1930, the Speedy was the first bag that Vuitton suggested for everyday use. The Speedy is a classic bag because it can be casual with jeans and a t-shirt and formal for an evening at the opera. It also looks proportional with every body type. The size and shape of the Speedy make it the perfect bag for every woman who needs to carry a lot of things with them.

Originally a 30cm size, it was then created in a smaller 25cm size specially made for Audrey Hepburn in 1965. Today it is also available in the 35 and 40cm sizes. Fast forward to 2016 and the bag comes in four numerical sizes and a super-tiny version known as the Nano.The number refers to measurement across the front of the bag in centimeters. 

While the most well known Speedy is probably the most classic model made of logo canvas, Louis Vuitton has created the bag in a variety of styles and colors, from graffiti to more traditional leathers and new ones come out every season. This means no matter what you’re doing, or how you want to look, there’s a Louis Vuitton Speedy for you.

Let's check out the guide below, before you purchase your Speedy!

The Louis Vuitton Speedy Bag

Year Created: 1930

Sizes Currently Produced: Nano, 25, 30, 35, 40 (Indicates measurement across the front of the bag in centimeters.)

LOUIS VUITTON NANO SPEEDY

6.3″ W x 4.3″ H x 3.5″ D

Monogram Canvas Only

 

LOUIS VUITTON SPEEDY 25

9.8″ W x 7.5″ H x 5.9″ D

Monogram, Damier Ebene or Damier Azur Canvas

LOUIS VUITTON SPEEDY 25 BANDOULIÈRE

9.8″ W x 7.5″ H x 5.9″ D

Monogram, Damier Ebene or Damier Azur Canvas, Monogram Empreinte Leather

 

LOUIS VUITTON SPEEDY 30

11.8″ W x 8.3″ H x 6.7″ D

Monogram, Damier Ebene or Damier Azur Canvas

LOUIS VUITTON SPEEDY 30 BANDOULIÈRE

11.8″ W x 8.3″ H x 6.7″ D

Monogram, Damier Ebene or Damier Azur Canvas, Monogram Empreinte Leather

LOUIS VUITTON SPEEDY 35

13.8″ W x 9.1″ H x 7.1″ D

Monogram, Damier Ebene or Damier Azur Canvas

LOUIS VUITTON SPEEDY 35 BANDOULIÈRE

13.8″ W x 9.1″ H x 7.1″ D

Monogram, Damier Ebene or Damier Azur Canvas

LOUIS VUITTON SPEEDY 40

15.7″ W x 9.8″ H x 7.5″ D

Monogram Canvas

LOUIS VUITTON SPEEDY 40 BANDOULIÈRE

15.7″ W x 9.8″ H x 7.5″ D

Monogram Canvas

Designer Bag Directory : Which Louis Vuitton Bag suits you?

Who doesn't adore LV bags? Most celebrities do. Even though the brand was founded in the 1800s, LV still hold strong in setting trends and pushing fashion forward in handbag industry. Hence, making it a stark mandatory for every woman out there to own any of the LV masterpiece.

LV classic lines are known for their incredible durability, making these some of the most sought after vintage pieces around the world. Are you up for their classic vintage options?  Here are some of the most popular designs that are still valued by vintage hunters everywhere. No matter what your desire, Louis Vuitton has a range of classic, modern and vintage bags for you! But hold on, which one is best for you? Let's take a look at some choices...

The Keepall

The iconic Keepall made its debut in 1924. Designed as an overnight stay bag, the Keepall modernized travel luggage and its design features continue to influence weekend bags sold today. Features of the Keepall include a leather ID tag, and the bag is available in 3 sizes – 45, 55, 60 (measure in cm). The Keepall is a unisex bag, and is often used today as a hardy carry on luggage for aeroplanes.

Suitable for: Frequent Fliers.



The Speedy

In 1965 the Speedy 30 was introduced following the success of the Keepall overnight bag. As the name suggests, this was a 30 cm sized version. It was designed due to a special order placed by Audrey Hepburn, who became the unofficial face of Louis Vuitton, after being photographed continuously with the Speedy 25. Today the Speedy is available in 4 sizes – 25, 30, 35, 40cm, and in a wide range of different leathers, and patterns. The Speedy was the first everyday travel handbag created by Louis Vuitton, and was originally called the ‘Express’ due to the era’s passion for new and quicker means of transportation.

Suitable for: Anyone who is a minimalist but still needs a big bag, big enough to carry all those necessary stuff. 



 The Noe

In 1932, the ‘Noe’ design made its debut, due to a request by a producer of champagne for a bag that could carry 5 bottles of champagne!  The Noe bag fits four bottles of champagne upright, and one bottle the middle upside down. Today the drawstring bag is a popular everyday bag, worn by women all over the globe and comes in 2 sizes – the ‘Noe’ & ‘Petite Noe’.

Suitable for: Picnic lovers, of course! But, I don't discount the shopaholics! 



 The Lockit

In 1958, the ‘Lockit’ bag was created as part of a light luggage line. The name refers to the design elements of how the bag closes – a leather patch with a padlock on the side of the bag, allowing you to ‘lock it’. Louis Vuitton’s padlocks were favoured amongst the elite & wealthy due to the ‘non pick lock’ design, helping them protect their goods from thieves.

Suitable for: Anyone living in a big, dangerous city. Or basically just anyone who is conscious about protecting their sentimental-valued stuff from being stolen.



 The Alma

Created in 1934, the Alma bag is one of Louis Vuitton’s most iconic bags, available in a range of different leathers and prints. The Alma was originally called the ‘Squire bag’ but was renamed after ‘Place de L’Alma’ – the pretty tree-lined square in Paris where the Avenue Montaigne meets the Seine. Made with functionality in mind, the Alma is extremely spacious wide opening bag. With double zips, it also features two inside compartments. It’s the perfect work to evening bag, and is one of Louis Vuitton’s most popular design,s second to the Speedy.

Suitable for: Ladylike and "elegant conscious" Chic. 

Designer Bag Directory : Most Popular Louis Vuitton Handbags

Founded in 1854, the house of Louis Vuitton has been making bags and luggage for over 150 years. Worth an estimated $28 billion, LV is the most valuable luxury brand in the world. Their bags are known for flawless craftsmanship and beauty. Nevertheless, out of those many collections, there is a list of most iconic LV’s that have stood the test of time and of course, popularity. Now, let's get to know them. 


The Speedy Bag




On the market for more than 80 years, the Louis Vuitton Speedy stands out as a timeless design. Its simplicity of style makes it appropriate for nearly all occasions, from a weekend shopping excursion to a formal dinner, while its shape flatters women of all sizes. It is available in a wide variety of colors and sizes to suit shoppers' tastes, though the Louis Vuitton monogram canvas remains the most popular.

The Neverfull Tote




Louis Vuitton's Neverfull tote first hit the market in 2007. Since that time, it has become one of the designer's most successful bags. It is available in both leather and canvas styles, including the classic monogram canvas. Sizes range from the small PM size to the large GM and include a mid-range MM between the two at 12.6 inches wide by 11.4 inches high and 6.7 inches deep, depending on the style.

The Tivoli 



A bag for everyday use, the Tivoli by Louis Vuitton features adjustable handles that suit either hand-carrying or shoulder wear. Wearers report that its interior design makes for easy access to contents. Large enough for a wallet, cell phone, keys, and other necessities, it is not so large as to be overwhelming to a woman of average height and build.

The Totally 


Convenient for those who frequently lose things in the crevices of a purse, the Louis Vuitton Totally includes both inside and outside pockets for easy access to belongings. Its inner pockets are ideal for small items, while outer pockets can fit a standard size water bottle. 

The Palermo 



Similar in girth to the Tivoli, the Louis Vuitton Palermo is slightly smaller to suit a wearer with a slimmer build. It features side pockets and a shoulder strap as well as comfortable handles and a large secured opening at the top. Inside, a cell phone pocket and additional flat pocket help to keep bulky and small items separated.

The Noé


First appearing in 1932, the Noé stands out as the second oldest of Louis Vuitton's handbag designs. It originally came about as the result of a request from a champagne manufacturer to create a stylish transport for five bottles. The result is pleated and features a classy drawstring closure and single handle at the top.

The Delightful



Debuting in 2010 as an everyday shoulder bag, the Louis Vuitton Delightful features a casual hobo shape and cowhide edging. Its cowhide handles combine strength with style, while a striped lining evokes the designer's classic trunks. The Delightful features plenty of space on the inside and, for buyers of the GM size, two zipped exterior pockets.

The Lockit


Appearing alongside a large-scale ad campaign starring Michelle Williams, the Lockit by Louis Vuitton features a rounded top and attached side padlock. An adjustable shoulder strap and comfortable handles make it easier to carry, while a zip closure helps to keep belongings secure.

The Alma



The Alma is available in a wide variety of colors both bright and classic. Options range from the classic monogram canvas to the shiny Vernis patent leather. A zipped closure with padlock adds practicality to the bag, as do the interior patch and phone pockets and studs located on the bottom. Structured to hold its shape, it also features a soft lining to protect belongings.

Designer Bag Directory : Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas

George Vuitton

It was George Vuitton, Louis Vuitton’s son, who decided in 1896 to carry on the adventure begun by his father by designing the famous Monogram Canvas. At the time, to foil counterfeiters, he created a canvas bearing bold graphics, a pattern that was instantly recognizable. The unique pattern is composed of flowers, a universal and timeless symbol, and the entwined Louis Vuitton initials. 

The pattern was based on the trend of using Japanese and Oriental designs in the late Victorian era. The Monogram fabric is crafted out of durable vinyl coated canvas. Since it was first designed, the Monogram canvas has been associated with natural, vegetable-tanned vachetta cowhide leather.  Its smooth, natural grain brings out the harmony of the carefully selected hide. The transparency reveals the natural markings, such as veins and wrinkles, proving it has not been treated. This delicate, easily scratched leather is a testament to the bag’s history and develops a unique amber patina, unique to each bag and greater suppleness with time. The leather starts out with a white tone and gradually darkens over time, leaving a rich caramel or amber color.

   
Damier Ebene Canvas

Contrary to popular belief, Damier Canvas was created before Monogram canvas. Influenced by the striped Raye canvas that was still being imitated, Vuitton wanted to take his design even further. In 1888, Louis Vuitton created the Damier Canvas pattern, which bore a logo thatreads "marque L. Vuitton déposée", which translates into "L. Vuitton registered trademark".  1998 saw the one hundred year anniversary of the release of Monogram canvas, which lead to a re-release of the original Damier canvas.  Ready for a fun fact? “Damier” literally translates from French to English to “Checker Board.”  



The current Damier Ebene pattern is printed on black coated canvas in small lines of two shades of brown to create the unique and lovable checked pattern, which is why Damier Ebene fades to black in some areas when it’s been gently used.

Damier Azur

Launched in 2006, this line is a new interpretation of the iconic Damier Canvas, the Damier Azur collection takes us away to the celebrated shores of the French Riviera. At once classic and casual, subtly different, Damier Azur offers a complete collection of products ranging from city bags to luggage.

 

Damier Graphite

The black and grey themed Damier pattern was created in honor of Louis Vuitton’s 120th anniversary of the canvas. Released in 2008, the Damier Graphite collection is a discreet revisit of the classic Damier. Damier Graphite features an understated black and grey tonal pattern with smooth black leather, instead of the iconic brown.  Damier Graphite is only released in Men’s accessories and leather goods.



Multicolore

In 2003, in collaboration with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami, the Monogram Multicolore line was born.  Takashi Murakami is considered one of the leaders in Japanese neo-pop art. Famous for his colorful, cheerful work, Murakami created the fun and cheerful Monogram canvas which uses 33 colors to create the well known Monogram pattern.
 

   
Mini Lin / Monogram Idylle 

The Monogram Mini Lin Canvas Collection is a newer line that sports a lighter, more supple but resistant canvas. It is made of 58% cotton, 24% linen and 18% polyamide.   In 2010, the Mini Lin collection was reinvented and renamed to the Monogram Idylle Canvas Collection, which sports a lighter, more supple but resistant canvas.



Denim 

This unique and playful take on the Monogram pattern debuted in 2005. Crafted out of stonewashed denim with the Louis Vuitton monogram pattern, the Monogram Denim line comes with blue, green, pink, grey, and black.



Vernis 


The Vernis line was introduced in 1997 by then, newly appointed Artistic Director Marc Jacobs. The Vernis line was inspired by RTW collections and is continually released in a range of unique, sparkling colors that highlight the famous Monogram print.. In French "vernis" means ‘varnish’ which explains the shiny and sparkly effect of the bags. It is a monogram embossed coated leather which is like patent leather and is embossed with the famous Monogram.

Designer Bag Directory : Louis Vuitton History

Everyone knows the famous Louis Vuitton Handbags, but do you know the actual history of the Louis Vuitton company? 

Louis Vuitton

The original Louis Vuitton company was founded by Louis Vuitton in 1854 on Rue Neuve des Capucines in Paris, France. Originally a luggage maker, Louis Vuitton realized that flat trunks could be stacked, as opposed to the rounded trunks that were more popular at the time. In 1858, Vuitton introduced his flat-bottom trunks and France went wild. Everywhere, luggage makers or malletiers, started to imitate Louis Vuitton’s designs.

In 1892, Louis Vuitton died, and the company's management passed to his son, Georges Vuitton. George Vuitton had a vision for the company and wanted to grow it into a worldwide company. Then, in 1896... something huge: Georges Vuitton created the iconic Monogram Canvas.  

Monogram Canvas

By 1913, the Louis Vuitton Building opened on the Champs-Elysees, which was the largest travel-goods store in the world at the time. Soon after, stores were opened in New York, Bombay, Washington, London, Alexandria, and Buenos Aires. In 1936, Georges Vuitton died, and his son, Gaston-Louis Vuitton, assumed control of the company.  Gaston-Louis began to incorporate leather and transform the Monogram canvas into a more pliable material for use on handbags and small leather goods. 1987 saw the creation of LVMH, which was a merging of Louis Vuitton with Moët et Chandon and Hennessy, to create the largest Luxury Conglomerate in the world.

In 1997, Marc Jacobs became the company’s artistic director, introduced first RTW line and introduced the Vernis collection. 

Vernis Collection

Marc Jacobs brought a much needed youthful spirit to LV and spurred collaborations with famous artists.

In 2001, Stephen Sprouse created the Graffiti and Roses lines; in 2003, Takashi Murakami created the Monogram Multicolore and Cherry Blossom lines; in 2008, artist Richard Prince created the Aquarelle, or more commonly known as the Watercolor Speedy. A reinterpretation of the iconic bag, this style features the classic Monogram pattern with a smudged painted fashion. There are 17 paint colors that are used in the smudging of this Speedy. These were released in white and brown. In 2012, Yayoi Kusama created “Infinitely Kusama” collection. Additionally, Marc Jacobs also introduced LV to collaborating with numerous street artists.

Graffiti and Rose Collection

Multicolor Collection

Watercolor Speedy