Louis Vuitton was a pioneering French craftsman whose name became synonymous with luxury, innovation, and timeless craftsmanship. Born in the small village of Anchay, France, Vuitton’s journey from a humble apprentice to the founder of one of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses is a testament to his ingenuity and determination.
At the age of 14, Vuitton left home on foot, travelling over 400 kilometres to Paris, where he apprenticed under a master trunk-maker, Monsieur Maréchal. In an era when travel was rough and luggage often impractical, Vuitton reimagined the very concept of packing. His breakthrough came in 1854 when he founded his own workshop and introduced flat-topped trunks, replacing the traditional dome-shaped designs. These revolutionary trunks, covered in waterproof Trianon canvas, were not only stylish but also stackable, making them ideal for train and steamer travel.
Vuitton’s commitment to quality and innovation quickly earned him a prestigious clientele, including Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III. His business flourished, leading to the creation of the now-iconic Monogram Canvas in 1896 - designed by his son, Georges Vuitton, to combat counterfeiting.
More than a craftsman, Louis Vuitton was a visionary who anticipated the needs of modern travellers, setting the foundation for a brand that would evolve into a global symbol of luxury.
Continuing the legacy of Vuitton as an accessories company, the brand grew in popularity over the next 100 years. In 1997 Marc Jacobs was enlisted as the Creative Director and introduced ready to wear fashion to the Louis Vuitton retail family. Supported in the following years by exceptional brand collaborations with other artists and designers the brand is an international powerhouse with loyal customers internationally.
