Louis Vuitton: A History of Luxury
One can only wonder whether Louis Vuitton, the eponymous founder of the world’s premier luxury designer, had any idea that his little leather goods shop would one day be synonymous with luxury and style. Louis Vuitton Malletier (LV) was founded in 1854 as a simple leather-goods shop, and now is a manufacturer of thousands of high-end luxury products including handbags, luggage, ready-to-wear, watches, jewellery, and much more. So, just how did this transformation take place?
From Humble Beginnings, To Global Player
Like most successful endeavours, Louis Vuitton started off quite small. The vision of one man from Jura, France, the first shop bearing the name Louis Vuitton was opened in Paris, 1854. LV specialized in crafting luggage and trunks for the wealthy elite of France at the time. Through the second half of the 19th century the company expanded steadily, including new designs and materials. It is in during period that LV introduced its’ famous Damier canvas (still in print!) as well as the trademark LV logo. Under the tutelage of Louis’ son George, the company expanded to the US, making it a worldwide entity. In the early 1900s the company began producing handbags and purses for both men and women (these items would become their calling cards), including the now-infamous Louis Vuitton Speedy. By the end of the War period, Louis Vuitton had immerged as one of the few global players in luxury fashion on the strength of wonderfully designer handbags in luxury.
The Great Expansion: 1945-Today
The last 65 years has been a period of constant, consistent growth for Louis Vuitton. In the 1950s the company revamped its’ signature Monogram Canvas making it suitable for purses and small bags. The company also began sponsoring high profile sporting events, increasing its’ global notoriety. It also began its foray into the greater luxury goods market including jewellery, watches, and fragrances into its’ repertoire. By the time the company released its’ first prêt-a-porter line in 1997, it was already the name in luxury goods. Recent collaborations with such artists as Stephen Sprouse, Marc Jacobs (current artistic direction) and Takashi Mukakami have only furthered the company’s reputation for forward thinking, wonderful designs, and luxurious, wearable goods.