The distinctive logo of Louis Vuitton, which is invariably plastered across its products, makes the brand an instantly recognisable face of the fashion industry. Its wide range of bags and other leather goods, available in a number of designs, finishes and colours (though the prominence of the logo rarely changes), make the brand immediately covetable, especially given that with prices starting at about £100, certain items are not entirely out of reach. The designs exude quality and style – and, furthermore, just about everything is available from the designer, from dog collars to luggage and key chains. The brand is also known for its collaborations with Stephen Sprouse and Takashi Murakami.
Even with the at times jaw-dropping prices, Louis Vuitton still maintains its iconic status as one of the most successful luxury brands in the world (despite its controversial history), retailing in its own stores as well as online and in a few high-end department stores. Started in 1854, the brand has many famous clients, though the celebrities who buy Vuitton today – such as Madonna and Jennifer Lopez – are more likely to be seen with one of the brand’s handbags than with the hand-crafted LV luggage that started it all. Conductor Leopold Stokowski even commissioned the sécretaire – an ingenious travelling case that served as a mini wardrobe and chest of drawers when assembled. The handbags came into view principally as smaller accompaniments to the main luggage trunks – bags that just got smaller and smaller to become the Vuitton handbags that are known and loved today.
Even greater broadening of the company began in 1936, when the logo began to be used on wallets and purses and a wider range of items began to be created. In 1998, collaboration with Marc Jacobs led to the first prêt-à-porter line for men and women. Equally significant was the creation of luxury goods conglomerate LVMH in 1987, whereby Louis Vuitton merged with champagne houses Hennessey and Moët & Chandon. Today it is now the parent of 60 sub-companies that each manage a number of prestigious brands. Such presence on the world stage surely shows that Louis Vuitton’s famous brand is not going anywhere yet – not least for its timeless maroquinerie.