Louis Vuitton Speedy History: The Classic Bag Loved by Fashionistas
Louis Vuitton, two words everyone knows.
Among the LV iconic handbags, the Louis Vuitton Speedy holds a special place in the hearts of fashion enthusiasts. Here, we will dive into the rich history of the Speedy bag, from its design to the different types, and highlight how they remain relevant today.
Let’s be real - every collector must have a Speedy. It’s an unwritten law.
Louis Vuitton Speedy Bag History Origin
The Express
The LV Speedy debuted as “The Express” in 1930 to reflect a new era of faster travel with the rise of commercial flights.
The bag was designed as an ‘everyday use’ smaller Keepall, with a duffle-like silhouette and dual handles made of natural cowhide leather.
As travel became more common, The Express was changed to Speedy to match the fast-moving lifestyle of modern women.
Audrey Hepburn’s Louis Vuitton Speedy
A couple of decades later, around the 1960s, the Speedy really took off thanks to Audrey Hepburn.
She carried around the Speedy 25, a smaller version of the Speedy. It was compact, chic, and perfect as an everyday LV bag.
Since Audrey Hepburn and her Speedy were spotted together everywhere, the Speedy became an instant must-have luxury bag for fashion lovers.
Different types of Speedy Bags
Louis Vuitton introduced the Speedy 25, upon Audrey Hepburn’s request in 1965.
That request allowed Louis Vuitton to expand the Speedy line to include sizes 25, 30, 35, and 40, for different preferences and occasions.
Then in 2011, the Speedy Bandouliere (meaning "with a strap" in French) was introduced, which incorporated a long shoulder strap to wear as a shoulder or cross-body bag.
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Versions of the Speedy |
Measurements (inches) |
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Speedy BB |
5.5" x 6.9" x 4.3" |
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Speedy Mini Sac HL |
6.25" x 4.25 x 3" |
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Speedy Nano |
6.3” x 4.3” x 3.5” |
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Neo Speedy |
12.5" x 6.2" x6.2" |
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Speedy 25 |
1” x 6” x 7” |
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Speedy 30 |
12” x 7” x 8” |
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Speedy 35 |
14” x 7” x 9” |
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Speedy 40 |
16” x 7” x 10” |
LV Speedy canvas options
As popular as the Speedy, it comes in many LV patterns and materials. The classic will always be Louis Vuitton’s luxury monogram, but the Speedy also comes in:
- Monogram Multicolore
- Damier Ebene
- Damier Azur
- Graffiti
- Watercolour
And so many others.
Louis Vuitton Speedy handbag unique design features
One of the most unique design features is that the Speedy is its durability and functionality for everyday use. It’s also spacious, allowing you to carry what you need.
Since it comes in many different sizes and materials, you can practically find a Speedy that’ll fit your needs and style.
In closing
The Louis Vuitton Speedy bag, from its humble beginnings as a travel bag to its status as a coveted fashion statement, the Speedy has stood the test of time. It just shows people's dedication to not only Louis Vuitton - but the Speedy itself. It's a fashion statement, a work of art and a daily companion.
See also: 5 Top Louis Vuitton Speedy Alternatives to Shop For