Chasing the Louis Vuitton Speedy, From 1930 to Today

Image by Louis Vuitton

Nearly a century after its release, the Speedy remains one of Louis Vuitton’s most relevant bags. It has graced the shoulders of the likes of classic actresses such as Audrey Hepburn, and current it-girls like Rihanna and Bella Hadid tote it in that same spirit. Its distinctive silhouette continues to prove its timelessness and value, even having undergone a renaming and multiple iterations. Today, the Speedy is available in a wide range of sizes and colors that continue to capture the hearts of contemporary bag enthusiasts.

A Quick History of the Speedy

At its introduction, the Speedy had a different name—the Express. The year 1930 saw the Speedy for the first time as part of Louis Vuitton’s endeavor to expand to smaller-sized luxury goods. It was a bag inspired by the times and particularly the mobile lifestyles that were further advanced by the rise of the travel revolution. The Speedy came in 30cm to serve as a daily companion for city folks on the go.

Demand prompted the release of 35 and 40cm sizes, though the smaller 25cm came later in 1965, when Breakfast at Tiffany’s star Audrey Hepburn made a special request. It was after this, and many public appearances of the Speedy in her hand, that the bag experienced a boom in popularity and solidified its status as an unmovable piece in LV’s collection.

Image by Valeriia Slobodeniuk on Pexels

Though a classic, the Speedy is anything but monotonous: A collaboration with Takashi Murakami in the early 2000s saw a new spin on the bag, producing a candy-colored version of the distinct monogram with cherries and cherry blossoms printed on it as well. Another Japanese artist, Yayoi Kusama, created an equally recognizable edition that boasted her signature polkadot pattern.

The release of the Speedy Bandoulière in 2011 also marked an indelible reinvigoration of the design, offering an extended range of sizes, materials, and finishes, along with a detachable shoulder strap. Rihanna became the new face for the bag, memorably shot slinging multiple monogrammed bags in a bright shade of yellow.

The Speedy, Almost 100 Years Later

Many versions and sizes later, the Speedy maintains an earned reputation as one of Louis Vuitton’s most popular bags. Sizes 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40cm are available to choose from, remaining true to its origins as a travel-friendly bag while accommodating a range of needs and styles. The variants of the Speedy are an equally dynamic lot, featuring the shoulder-strapped Bandoulière, the structured and refined Trunk (which hails back to the house’s luggage-making origins), and the softer, lived-in Soft bags. There is a color and material for everyone, from the classic monogrammed canvas, and its playful Multicolore and solid color options, to supple and elegant calf leather variants. For those looking for a more personal touch, the Mon Monogram details feature fully customizable patches, initials, and stripes to go along with your choice of Speedy size.

Image by Louis Vuitton

Despite its evolution and numerous available options, the Speedy perseveres precisely because of its distinct cylindrical silhouette, paired with elegant leather handles and the signature LV engraved padlock. It remains among the most sought-after in the house’s collection, and it seems that it will maintain its shining and dynamic reputation for years to come.