Louis Vuitton Purses
The Louis Vuitton name is associated with exclusive style and craftsmanship. The ubiquitous LV monogram is one of the most highly sought after designs in the world, from bags to clothing to shoes. Selling to a world wide market, the Louis Vuitton Company is one of the leaders in the fashion world. Louis Vuitton purses are highly prized and sought after, prompting an entire industry of knock-offs and counterfeiters.
History
Born in 1821, Louis Vuitton made his name as a luggage packer for the rich and upscale in Paris in the early 1800’s. In1837, Paris was just beginning to open itself to the idea of travel. The rich began to drive around the city in coaches piled high with trunks. In this environment, Louis Vuitton made his way to Paris. Penniless, he walked the entire distance from his home in the Jura Mountains. In that same year, the French rail lines were opened to passengers. The 14 mile rail line ran from Paris to Saint-Germain and Louis became an apprentice luggage packer and trunk maker. His education in the business of trunk packing and construction began as he was sent to the homes of the elegant ladies of Paris to pack their belongings for their trips. His rise to fame began when he was appointed by Napoleon III to pack the dresses of the Empress Eugenie.
The railway lines continued to criss cross France and Louis opened his own shop in Paris at N°4 Rue Neuve des Capucines in 1854. The insights he gained in packing for the traveling rich led him to the design of luggage that was more convenient and practical. He created and perfected his flat trunk, constructed in grey trianon canvas; it was ‘the’ trunk to have when traveling. Replacing the old domed style of trunk, his luggage was in high demand. His slimmer designs, created to make luggage easier to stack in rail cars brought him huge amounts of recognition. It also brought many imitators. To combat this he began to decorate his bags with distinctive stripes and checkerboard patterns. In 1860, Louis Vuitton built his workshop in Asnières.
