While uncommon, cracks on Louis Vuitton canvas are horrifying. Here's how to possibly prevent this damage, why these cracks may appear, and which monogram and damier bags are more likely to get cracks.
I drastically underestimated the degree to which the Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM handbag would change my life (insert my husband rolling his eyes here). I’m writing this post is because this handbag entered my radar about a year ago and I delayed buying it because I couldn’t decide which print to go with and I (wrongfully) thought I didn’t need another Louis Vuitton handbag. Louis Vuitton Neverfull is a must-have bag for every bag collector. Some use it as a workhorse daily, others just as a cover for their Birkins but you can't resist the fact that it's not a bag that will sit in your closet. And that's why it's a great investment and you need a Neverfull in your collection. However, as Neverfull became one of the most widespread Louis Vuitton bags. In 2019 Louis Vuitton updated the Artsy with a top leather trim. There are rumors that they did it because of the typical canvas cracking on the top part. The leather part is supposed to prevent the canvas from cracking. Louis Vuitton Artsy MM vs. Now let's examine an Artsy MM vs. A Neverfull MM and understand the differences. Here's a quick and easy way to restore your frayed purse strap back to its original condition. More details on my blog www.simplory.com The edge Kote is from.
To start off, it's important to mention that cracks on Louis Vuitton canvas are uncommon. Even the majority of 35+ year-old vintage Louis Vuitton do not have any cracks on the canvas. Louis Vuitton canvas, whether it be monogram, damier azur, or damier ebene, is typically very durable and low-maintenance.
But, we wanted to dedicate an entire post to canvas cracks, because this type of damage, unlike most damage, cannot really be fixed, and Louis Vuitton stores will refuse to service any bags with any canvas cracks. So, while uncommon, when cracks do happen, it's horrific!
How Do Cracks Happen?
Cracks can happen for a number of reasons.
First, certain bags seem to be more prone to cracks than others. Any bags with openings that are not lined with vachetta leather or a zipper will flex and fold more often. This seems to result in a higher likelihood of canvas cracking.
The care of a bag can also contribute to the likelihood of this dreaded damage. Prolonged exposure to sun and dryness, folding of the bag, overloading a bag, and any sharp jabs at the bag can contribute to cracking.
How to Avoid Canvas Cracks?
-Don't fold the bag, especially during storage. While canvas is very strong, this greatly increases the chances of cracking.
-Store the bag properly in a dark cool place. For unstructured bags that tend to flop over, place some tissue or clothing inside the bag.
-Care for the bag reasonably. Obviously, do not jab at it, but more related, do not over-stuff the bag or carry extremely heavy items inside the bag.
-Most bags don't need this. But, if you feel that your bag has gotten really dry because it has not been used for a long time or because of where it has been stored, apply a little conditioner to the canvas every half a year or so. We recommend Cadillac boot & shoe care leather conditioner.
Cracking is uncommon. For those that are terrified of cracking, certain bags seem to be much more resistant to cracking. While it can occur on the main body, bottom, or corners of the bag, it is most common at the opening of the bag.
The bags that are least likely to crack are structured handbags with a lining at the edges. Rigid bags, like the Nolita and Alma resist bending and folding, and bags with a zipper or vachetta leather on the edges have additional support when they are being flexed.
The above picture shows the opening of 3 different bags. The top-most bag, the Nolita, has a very low possibility of cracking, because it is both a rigid structured bag, and the opening is lined. In this case, the lining is the zipper. The bottom-most bag, the Artsy, is more likely to experience cracking than the Nolita and Neverfull, because the opening is not lined and the bag's shape also bends a lot.
I've Already Got Cracks, so What Now? 🙁
Neverfull Handles Cracking Hand
If you got to this page from a google search, because your Louis Vuitton bag already has cracks, our sincere sympathies are with you!
The consolation is that with reasonable care, the cracks will not spread much, and most cracks are very very minor and probably more noticeable to the owner than anyone else.
Similar to how one would go about avoiding cracks, condition the canvas every once in a while to ensure that the canvas has some moisture and is pliable rather than brittle. And, avoid improper care like over-loading the bag, or folding the bag. And, be sure to store that bag in a cool dark place!
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With it’s LV logo, Louis Vuitton is one of the most recognized designer brands in the world.
Mostly known for its signature monogram print bags, having a Louis Vuitton handbag is seen as a status symbol within the fashion community.
One of the major cons of a designer bag is, of course, the price.
But if you are willing to shed the cash for one of the classic bags, most designer items keep their value and, depending on the condition, increase in value.
If paying full price isn’t in your budget but still want the designer label, I highly suggest looking into resale sites like Fashionphile, The RealReal or Tradesy.
If buying second hand isn’t your thing or if it’s still out of your budget, I’ve listed affordable alternatives for some of the most expensive Louis Vuitton bags.
LV Neverfull ($1,300-$2,000)
Okay, so this might not be the MOST expensive Louis Vuitton, but it is one of the most popular in the fashion blogging world because of its versatility.
It has also doubled in price since it was introduced in 2007, mostly due to its popularity. The Neverfull comes in three different sizes and starts at $1,300 and goes upward to $2,000.
Affordable LV Neverfull Alternatives:
Beyloo Soft Leather MM Tote
If you like the iconic checkered bag, this Beyloo Soft Leather MM Tote is a great Neverfull bag alternative.
It has the exact same look, without the LV branding, and even comes in 3 different color options.
Tory Burch Gemini Link Tote
The Tory Burch Gemini Link Tote is an excellent Neverfull dupe if you want the same functionality as the LV Neverfull, but don’t care for the look-alike version.
This tote is about the same size as the LV Neverfull and also has the canvas outer look. Tory Burch is a very reputable brand and makes great quality bags that will last.
LV Keepall Bandouliere ($1,880 - $3,550)
The LV Keepall Bandouliere is perfect for those who like to travel in style.
Louis Vuitton’s luggage is known for being strong and durable which is why it is so popular among those who love designer items.
Designed with both handles and a long strap, so it is comfortable to carry through the airport. Depending on the size and style you choose, the price starts at $1,880 and can go upward to as much as $3,550.
Affordable LV Keepall Bandouliere Alternatives:
MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS Bedford Travel Weekender Bag
The MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS Bedford Travel Weekender Bag is a great option to the LV Keepall. It comes with the luggage tag, handles and a long strap for carrying through the airport.
Celine Boston Keepall
The Celine Boston Keepall is almost a dead ringer for the LV Keepall. It, of course, has a different print, but the leather trim is strikingly similar!
Piel Vintage Leather Weekender Duffel
Crafted from full grain genuine leather, the Piel Vintage Leather Weekender Duffel is a high-quality alternative to the LV Keepall. It has a similar shape, contrast straps and handles, and a detachable strap so you can carry it over the shoulder, by hand or across the body.
Neverfull Handles Cracking Glass
The LV version is distinctive for its all over logo, but the solid leather finish on this alternative makes it just as much of a classic.
Bugatti Perreira Duffle Bag Leather
Love the Keepall shape but prefer something solid? The Bugatti Perreira Duffle Bag Leather exudes all the style and sophistication of the LV original, just in solid Colombian leather.
This bag features smooth top handles, a top zipper, and an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap for versatility.
LV Speedy ($1,050-$1,980)
The Louis Vuitton Speedy is one of the brand’s most iconic and popular bags.
I feel like you can’t make a LV handbag list and not include the classic Speedy. It was originally designed in the 1930s, but an updated version was released in 2011, including a bandouliere or long strap.
This release helped the style regain popularity because of its style and updated versatility in the ways you can carry the bag.
Affordable LV Speedy Alternatives:
Michael Kors Bedford
The Michael Kors Bedford (a smaller, slightly different version of the weekender tote), is a great alternative to the LV Speedy.
It has the same classic shape, top handles, and long strap. Plus it is Michael Kors, so you know it will be high quality.
Lady's Moment Bucket Satchel Bag
Amazon is well known for its designer dupe bags, and the LV Speedy dupe is one of the most popular.
The Lady's Moment Bucket Satchel Bag is identical in shape and functionality as the original; without the logo, of course.
Michael Michael Kors Hayes Small Duffle Bag
Mr. Kors is clearly a fan of the LV Speedy, as the Michael Michael Kors Hayes Small Duffle Bag is almost a dead ringer for the original.
This handbag features an allover MK logo print, rounded top handles, and a detachable strap for carrying over the shoulder or across the body.
LV City Steamer ($4,000-$55,000)
Known as the most expensive Louis Vuitton bag, the crocodile-skin version debuted in 2015 for a cool $55,000. It also comes in regular leather and sells for about $4,000. The features of this bag include top handles, a long strap, LV engraved padlock, and a name tag.
Affordable LV City Steamer Alternatives:
Michael Kors Mercer
The MK Mercer satchel is a great designer version of the LV City Steamer. It has the top handles and long strap as well as the signature padlock.
Dasein Women Handbag
The only difference in appearance from this Dasein Women Handbag and the LV City Steamer is the long strap that comes on the LV tote.
If that doesn’t bother you, this is a great option. Plus, the Amazon version comes with a clutch!
LV Capucines ($5,000-$35,000)
Rounding out the list of expensive Louis Vuitton handbags is the LV Capucines.
This handbag was first introduced in 2013; and boasts a classic structured shape, top handle, and long strap. Just like the LV City Steamer, this bag also comes in a crocodile-skin version and retails for $35,000.
Regular leather versions start at around $5,000, depending on size and style.
Affordable LV Capucines Alternatives:
Qiwang Cowhide Embossed Crocodile Purse
This Qiwang Cowhide Embossed Crocodile Purse dupe is a great affordable alternative.
The shape, top handles, and long strap are very similar to the Capucines.
Michael Michael Kors Gramercy Frame Top Handle Satchel
What makes the LV Capucines so chic is its single top handle and elegant structure. And the Michael Michael Kors Gramercy Frame Top Handle Satchel has both.
With its petite shape, gold-tone hardware, and angled silhouette, it’s a sophisticated alternative to the original LV. It also includes a detachable shoulder strap so you can carry it in different ways.
LV Crocodile Lady Bag PM ($55,000)
Released in 2014, the LV Crocodile Lady Bag PM is one of Louis Vuitton’s most exclusive bags (and it comes with a hefty price tag).
The silhouette is elegant in its simplicity, but it’s the use of exotic crocodile leather skin that makes it so special. With two top handles and a double zip-top closure, this satchel proves that some of the best Louis Vuitton bags are the ones that aren’t covered in LV logos.
Affordable LV Crocodile Lady Bag PM Alternatives:
Dooney & Bourke Denison Zip Zip Satchel
While the shape isn’t exactly the same, the Dooney & Bourke Denison Zip Zip Satchel is a chic alternative to the LV version that most of us cannot afford.
Embossed with a crocodile pattern, this leather satchel has a structured silhouette and double top zippers. The contrast trim makes it perfect for coordinating with both black and brown accessories.
The two top handles can be hand-toted or carried in the crook of the arm. The detachable strap lets you swing it over the shoulder when you need to keep your hands free.
Michael Michael Kors Zoe Medium Crocodile-Embossed Leather Satchel
If what you love about the LV Lady Bag l is the crocodile skin and textured finish, you're in luck. You can save yourself thousands with the Michael Kors Zoe Medium Crocodile-Embossed Leather Satchel.
The silhouette is slightly different but conveys the same feeling: structured, polished, ladylike, and timeless. It’s detailed with gold-tone hardware, a hanging logo charm, and a detachable shoulder strap for versatility.
LV Coquille D’ Oeuf Minaudiere ($101,000)
At a staggering price tag of $101,000, the LV Coquille d’Oeuf Minaudiere isn’t just a handbag – it’s a work of art.
When Louis Vuitton released this little gem in 2012, it wasn’t a bag that you could just walk into an LV store and buy off the shelf. It was not mass produced and never will be. And that’s because of how it’s made.
It takes 12,500 pieces of crushed eggshells to make just one of these little oval minaudiere clutches. It’s those cracked and re-assembled eggshell fragments that create its unique pattern (complete with LV logos, of course).
More than 600 hours are needed to put just one piece together, which partially explains its exorbitant price.
Affordable LV Coquille d’Oeuf Minaudiere Alternatives:
Santi Oval Clutch
The Santi Oval Clutch is a chic alternative for two reasons: the color and the shape. Glass beads and faux pearls add rich texture to its surface, while a hinged clasp closure on top gives it that vintage-inspired ladylike look.
Tadashi Shoji Corded Embroidery On Tulle Oval Clutch
A structured oval silhouette, a metal clasp closure, and a bone-colored finish exudes refined style for day or night.
The Tadashi Shoji Corded Embroidery On Tulle Oval Cutch costs about 1% of the price of the LV original. And that’s a price tag we can afford.
Just Jamie Pearl Oval Lucite Clutch Evening Handbag
Is it the hard exterior “shell” that you love about the LV clutch? This alternative may be all you need to enjoy that look without having to go into a lifetime of debt.
The Just Jamie Pearl Oval Lucite Clutch Evening Handbag is a head-turner in its own right, with a hard shell, a clasp closure, and a distinctive oval shape.
Louis Vuitton handbags have always been one of the most coveted designer bags, but there are many alternatives if the designer versions aren’t in your budget.
Can’t bear the thought of carrying around anything but the real thing? You might not have to.
Check out sites like Poshmark, Rebag, and The Real Real to find pre-owned LV bags at a fraction of the price. You just might be surprised at how many fashionistas are looking to resell the bag you love!