Louis Vuitton: The Most Stylish of Histories
Louis Vuitton is one of the largest global players in high end luxury wear. Their designs have set the standard for luxury luggage and designer handbags, and their name has become synonymous with luxury style. Wearing the LV Monogram has become a statement about your social status. The company has transcended its’ modest beginnings to become a true global company of astounding fame.
The Little Shop That Could
Louis Vuitton Malletier – a global multi-national corporation that includes multiple subsidiaries and wings – began as a small leather-goods and luggage shop in Paris, France. The eponymous founder began the shop in 1854, after moving from the Jura region. His great work gained him the favour of Napolean III, and made him the Layetier for the Empress of France –not a bad start! LV quickly became famous for its nearly indestructible canvas. When the company introduced its’ Damier canvas in 1888 it inadvertently changed global fashion as this look still dominates the global market. After the turn of the century, LV began manufacturing bags both for men and women, an inspired move that would soon pay off. The company expanded its’ operation to include stores in international cities on both sides of the Atlantic.
The Makings of a Global Star
In the 1950s Louis Vuitton revamped its canvas, making it supple and pliable enough to be used in purses, bags and wallets. This move allowed the classic Damier Canvas – and the newly minted Monogram canvas – to be adapted for ladies’ handbags. Today, Louis Vuitton is perhaps best known for these fashionable women’s accessories.
The entire 65 years following WWII have been characterized by constant growth for LV. The company expanded its collection of luxury items to include jewellery, watches, fragrances, and more. Its’ monogram logo has become a status symbol. The company has increased its’ profile by sponsoring luxury events from Yacht racing to Equestrian events worldwide.
In recent years the company has cemented its’ reputation for being forward thinking – the vanguard in the fashion world. Through inspired collaborations with modern artists (Stephen Sprouse, Takashi Murakami) to its’ appointment of fashion star Marc Jacobs as artistic director, Louis Vuitton continues to stay fresh, rather than simply resting upon its’ 150 year old reputation for excellence.