Louis Vuitton Montaigne: The Unsung Hero of the Monogram Line

Since Nicolas Ghesquière took the helm as creative director at Louis Vuitton in 2013, the house's iconic Monogram canvas has experienced a renaissance. While classics like the Speedy, Neverfull, and Keepall remain perennial favorites, a wave of appreciation has risen for lesser-known silhouettes. The Popincourt (reminiscent of Mary Poppins' carpet bag) and the Artsy, favored by the likes of Angelina Jolie, are prime examples. What captivates me about these designs is the masterful blend of colorful leather trims with the timeless monogram, yielding an instantly recognizable aesthetic.

One of Ghesquière's earliest creations for the house was the Montaigne—a sleek yet spacious carryall that has garnered a devoted following. Its dedicated PurseForum thread spans over seven years and 242 pages! So, what makes this bag paradoxically both under-the-radar and immensely popular?

Nestled in the heart of Paris's Golden Triangle, Avenue Montaigne is synonymous with haute couture, housing some of the most prestigious fashion houses. Dior paid homage with its Montaigne 30 bag, but Louis Vuitton's tribute predates it, launching in 2014. The 'Montaigne Club' started nearly simultaneously and remains active today.

Louis Vuitton Montaigne MM in Monogram Canvas

The Montaigne features a central zipped compartment secured with a padlock, flanked by two spacious open sections. Available in three sizes—BB, MM, and GM—there's a version for every need. Carry it by the top handle, in the crook of your arm, or as a shoulder bag; the BB even includes an extra-long detachable strap for crossbody wear, maximizing versatility.

Ghesquière has explored a spectrum of colors and materials. Choose the iconic Monogram Canvas or the supple Empreinte leather in five hues. A Monogram Vernis edition, perfect for dressy days, came in seven colors and can still be found on resale platforms. Currently, the Louis Vuitton website offers a bicolor Empreinte version in giant monogram for both MM and BB sizes—snap these up before they sell out!

With such variety, there's no excuse not to own a Montaigne. Yet, as my colleague Amanda (we miss you!) noted, it remains somewhat overlooked by high-fashion insiders. Given its roomy interior concealed by an elegant, structured exterior, this bag deserves far more acclaim. Whether you tote the GM to work or sling the BB for a night out, there's a perfect Montaigne for everyone.

Celebrities have embraced the Montaigne: Hilaria Baldwin carries the Vernis MM, while beauty blogger Alexandrea Garza and actress Holly Madison share a fondness for the Empreinte MM in noir.

Holly Madison carrying Louis Vuitton Montaigne

Hilaria Baldwin carrying Louis Vuitton Montaigne

I see the Montaigne as an ideal entry into luxury fashion—a first high-end purchase that stands out from the sea of Speedys and Neverfulls. It's practical, stylish, and built for daily use over years. Plus, its resale value remains strong, retaining roughly 80% of its original price. Who wouldn't appreciate enjoying a bag and recouping a good return later?

No wonder it's popular with everyday enthusiasts, even if not with A-listers. Special editions add to its allure: a braided leather handle version for those who prefer an alternative to Vachetta, and pieces from the Masters LV x Koons collection, including the quirky Mona Lisa rendition. I'm eager to see future collaborations featuring the Montaigne.

As 2021 unfolds, we hope for brighter days, though visiting Avenue Montaigne may remain a distant dream. Yet that shouldn't deter us from indulging in our first, second, or third Louis Vuitton—the holy grail of handbag brands. For many, purchasing an LV marks a milestone, a symbol of achievement. The Montaigne, with its strength, functionality, and sophistication, embodies that sentiment perfectly.

So, take the plunge and join the Montaigne Club today!

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