Image by Dior
The Lady Dior is now a timeless classic among designer bags, its name familiar even to casual wearers, but it was not always known as such. This iconic handbag used to go by the name of the Chouchou. Before the name could embed itself in public memory, though, the Chouchou underwent a renaming after a princess (in a twist of fate that is strikingly similar to Hermès’ Kelly!).
Lady Diana’s love for the bag granted it star status, even prior to its release. The story started in 1995, when the First Lady of France gifted Diana the Chouchou during the opening of the Paul Cézanne exhibition. It was Dior’s newest bag at the time, not yet publicly available, and the Princess of Wales wore it countless times. She paired the handbag with everything from suits to slip dresses—a testament to the versatility of the one-of-a-kind silhouette. Captured in paparazzi photos, the boxy style shined alongside the royal. Now, the legendary bag is called the Lady Dior, reflecting its inseparable connection to Lady Di.
A closer scrutiny of the bag explains why it has remained so popular since its appearance in the British princess’ hand. The sharp and structured shape creates a strong, boxy silhouette that stands its ground against statement outfits. But the Lady Dior is far from loud—it is elegant, understated, and, as the name suggests, ladylike. The soft leather look is emphasized by Cannage stitching inspired by the motif of the woven rattan Napoleon III chairs at Dior shows. The result is a signature crisscross quilting that adds a sophisticated touch to the bag’s style. The top handle is also what makes the Lady Dior stand out, while offering two wear options: as a handbag or worn crossbody with the strap. The final detail that elevates the style is the charms, which spell out D-I-O-R in hardware.
Image by Dior
The Lady’s Colors and Sizes
Now, over thirty years after its debut, the Lady Dior bag retains its star status. A-listers such as Anne Hathaway and Rihanna are frequently sighted toting the handbag, and the classically elegant design keeps it popular among all spheres. In response to the undying love for the Lady, Dior has released many iterations of the design that upkeeps its contemporary feel.
The Lady Dior shines in classic colors such as black and powder beige, but more playful options of taupe, lilac, pink, and many more are also offered. Limited editions have also been released, including this eye-catching silver leather Lady Dior that is the result of a collaboration with Jason Martin.
Image by Collector Square
In terms of sizes, the Lady comes in five: the Micro, Mini, Small, Medium, and Large.
- Micro: 4.75” x 4.5” x 2” / 12 x 11 x 5 cm
- Mini: 6.5” x 6” x 3” / 17 x 15 x 7 cm
- Small: 8” x 7” x 3” / 20 x 18 x 8 cm
- Medium: 9.5” x 8.5” x 4.5” / 24 x 21 x 12 cm
- Large: 12.5” x 10” x 4.5” / 32 x 25 x 12 cm
Whichever size and color calls out to you, the Lady Dior is a sound option that offers an appeal unencumbered by time. The house’s artisanship is placed front and center through the delicate stitching on soft leather, and the letter charms add a unique touch to the look. It’s hard to resist the allure of the Lady Dior and impossible to deny it.
SHOP BAG CARE FOR THE LADY DIOR |
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