Vintage Luggage: The Louis Vuitton Trunk

LOUIS VUITTON TRUNKS

by Angela Tunner

When you talk about vintage luggage, you’re talking about trunks. The ‘oldest trunk maker in existence is La Malle Bernard in France. They have been making trunks since 1846 and still do. Opening in 1853 in Paris was La Maison Goyard. At the time they were known as Maison Morel founded by Edme Goyard, which his son bought out in 1853 and it was he who changed the name to Goyard. Today, this company is favored by high society and aristocratic families and for special orders, all of which made this company’s reputation what it is.

The Louis Vuitton Trunk

In 1854 Louis Vuitton (Malletier à Paris or “Trunk-Maker in Paris) opened. This company was the first to make a flat topped trunk, airtight and one that was more lightweight. Up until then, trunks had a rounded top. These trunks were all well made and many of them have endured the test of time. you can buy a vintage trunk from these trunk makers today. It is romantic to imagine taking a long voyage, on a boat, with your wardrobe trunk packed, some of them, designed to open up like a personal portable closet, uniquely yours, that goes wherever you do. While not easily transported alone, the assistance of bell hops, luggage racks and the like are all necessary to make travel with a trunk less cumbersome. While not easily transported alone, the assistance of bell hops, luggage racks and the like are all necessary to make travel with a trunk less cumbersome.

Louiv Vuitton Book Celebrates Trunks

When you own a vintage travel trunk, its like you own a piece of history. Interested in books on Louis Vuitton vintage trunks? There is a new book written by Pierre-Leon Forte and Florence Muller that came out in November 2010! Also check out this Luxury brand icon’s mobile iPhone app! Louis Vuitton celebrates “100 Legendary Trunks: Louis Vuitton”