Discontinued vs Vintage Luxury Bags: What’s the Difference?
Every bag lover eventually reaches this point: Should I get a vintage bag? Or should I get a discontinued bag?
Vintage and discontinued handbags: what is the difference?
While they may sound interchangeable, knowing the difference helps you understand the bag better!
TLDR: Discontinued vs vintage luxury bag meaning
When you’re in the preloved market, you’ll encounter two terms: vintage and discontinued.
Discontinued means that the bag model is no longer in production. Therefore, you cannot find a new retail version of the bag.
Vintage means the luxury bag is at least 20 years old. However, that does not necessarily mean the bag is discontinued. There is still a possibility of finding a newer version of the same item.
See also: Vintage vs Antique: Key Differences Every to Know About
What are discontinued luxury bags?
Discontinued luxury bags mean that the specific bag model, size, or material is no longer being produced.
There is no age requirement. So, essentially, a newly released model can be discontinued in less than a year.
For example, even though Louis Vuitton has a Speedy Bandoulière, their original Louis Vuitton Speedy design is discontinued.
Another example is Phoebe Philo’s discontinued Chloe Bags after their new director took over.
What are vintage luxury bags?
For items to be vintage, they must be at least 20 years old.
Many prefer a vintage luxury bag for its classic style and well-aged patina leather. Plus, they usually have incredible resale value.
Can vintage be the same as discontinued?
A luxury handbag can be both vintage and discontinued, but it depends on timing.
A newly released 2026 handbag can be discontinued a year later. While that bag is discontinued, it hasn’t reached that 20-year threshold for it to be considered vintage.
So then, around 2046, that 2026 bag would be considered both discontinued and vintage.
Why is vintage so expensive now?
With fast fashion made from poor quality, many are looking towards vintage for better quality. Plus, people say that vintage items feel and look better.
That makes sought-after vintage clothes and bags more expensive because of the high demand.
Affordable vintage luxury bags in Japan
Japan is globally known for having a strict, anti-counterfeiting law for its luxury items.
With so many vintage items in Japan, there is a treasure-trove of discontinued and vintage.
At WeeklyLuxDrop, you can find discontinued and vintage luxury bags that are authentic in pristine, gently used condition.
If you’re unsure about the bag, you can contact one of our three sellers: Clement, Bridget, or Camila for more photos. We also have Live Luxury Video Sale each week, showing the latest preloved luxury items live.
They’ll describe the texture, feel, rubs, canvas/leather quality, and more! There, you can request items to see them live!
Frequently asked questions
What year is considered vintage for LV?
In general, vintage items must be about 20 years old. But many want to be cautious, so they say about 25-30 years old for an LV item to be vintage.
Does vintage mean preloved?
Preloved means something that was previously preowned. So, a preloved item can be vintage once it reaches over 20 years old. Vintage items can be preloved when it has been previously owned.
Is a 20 year old bag vintage?
In general, a 20-year-old bag is considered vintage.
Why is vintage Louis Vuitton cheaper?
It is most beneficial to buy vintage Louis Vuitton bags as you will get an affordable handbag in great condition.
In closing
Whether you are looking for a discontinued luxury bag or a vintage one, WeeklyLuxDrop is here to assist you.
Based in Japan, our sellers Clément, Bridget, and Camila are here to help you find an affordable luxury handbag and describe every detail, so you know exactly what you are shopping for.