Louis Vuitton Monogram 130th Anniversary: What It Means for Collectors

In January 2026, Louis Vuitton marks the 130th anniversary of its iconic Monogram motif with the launch of a commemorative collection honouring the design’s heritage. Originally created in 1896 by Georges Vuitton, the Monogram was conceived not only as a decorative signature but as a means of preventing counterfeiting — a function that has since evolved into one of the most recognisable symbols in luxury fashion.

More than a pattern, the Monogram represents the house’s history in travel, craftsmanship and innovation. The anniversary collection revisits this legacy through three distinct chapters: Monogram Origine, VVN, and Time Trunk — each exploring a different dimension of the brand’s past.

For collectors and long-term buyers, such releases are more than seasonal launches. They offer insight into how heritage designs continue to shape contemporary luxury — and, importantly, how they perform in the pre-owned market.

The Origins of the Monogram

The Monogram was introduced in 1896, blending the LV initials with floral motifs inspired by decorative arts and Japanese design influences. It was officially registered shortly thereafter and became synonymous with Louis Vuitton’s travel trunks.

Over the decades, the motif has been reinterpreted in countless colours, materials and collaborations, yet its original brown and gold canvas remains one of the most enduring signatures in fashion.

Its longevity is precisely why anniversary collections carry weight. When a house revisits its origins, it signals stability rather than reinvention.

A return to Foundation 

The Monogram Origine chapter reintroduces the classic motif in tones inspired by early 20th-century house archives. The traditional Ebène colourway — soft brown and earthy ochre — references the Monogram’s earliest appearance.

Iconic silhouettes such as the Speedy, Alma, Noé and Neverfull appear within this framework, reaffirming why these shapes continue to endure across generations.

For the pre-owned market, these are the styles that consistently demonstrate demand. Structured, recognisable, and rooted in heritage, they rarely fall out of favour.

VVN: Celebrating Natural Leather

The VVN collection focuses on Louis Vuitton’s Vache Végétale Naturelle leather — the untreated, vegetable-tanned cowhide used on many of the house’s travel pieces. Known for developing a warm patina over time, this leather embodies the idea that luxury improves with age.

By spotlighting natural leather and pared-back design, this chapter aligns closely with the broader shift towards understated, long-term ownership. Pieces designed to age gracefully often translate well to the secondary market, where condition and material integrity are paramount.

Time Trunk: Heritage Reimagined

The Time Trunk series draws directly from Louis Vuitton’s archival trunks, using trompe-l'œil techniques to echo antique hardware and historic textures. It bridges past and present, blending nostalgia with contemporary execution.

While more concept-driven than classic Monogram pieces, designs that explicitly reference the house’s trunk-making roots often attract collectors drawn to narrative and craftsmanship.

What This Anniversary Means for the Pre-Owned Market

Anniversary collections tend to reinforce — rather than disrupt — the desirability of core designs. When a brand celebrates its foundations, it often increases renewed interest in earlier releases featuring similar motifs or colourways.

For buyers considering pre-owned Louis Vuitton bags, the 130th anniversary serves as a reminder of why Monogram canvas remains one of the most resilient materials in luxury. Its durability, recognisability and versatility continue to support long-term ownership.

In many cases, established silhouettes such as the Speedy or Alma demonstrate steadier resale performance than highly trend-led releases.

Why Heritage Matters More Than Ever

As luxury buyers increasingly prioritise longevity over novelty, heritage collections resonate more deeply. A house revisiting its history reinforces confidence in its design language.

For collectors, anniversary pieces may hold particular appeal. For long-term buyers, however, the true value lies in the enduring nature of Monogram itself — a motif that has transcended fashion cycles for over a century.

A Considered Approach to Louis Vuitton at KYM

At KYM, we observe heritage moments like this not as seasonal excitement, but as indicators of enduring design value. Pre-owned Louis Vuitton Monogram pieces remain among the most consistently sought-after designer bags, particularly in classic colourways and structured silhouettes.

Every piece we curate is professionally authenticated and carefully assessed, offering access to timeless Louis Vuitton designs with confidence and transparency.

As the Monogram celebrates 130 years, its relevance today speaks not to trend, but to longevity — a quality increasingly central to modern luxury ownership.