Louis Vuitton Marks 130th Anniversary of Iconic Monogram with Archival Collection Series

The House of Louis Vuitton is dedicating the entirety of 2026 to commemorating the 130th anniversary of its globally recognized monogram. This signature visual code has remained central to the brand's identity since its inception. The motif was originally conceived by Georges Vuitton, the founder's son, in 1896. This creation was a strategic move to combat the burgeoning issue of counterfeiting, as earlier designs, such as the striped canvas introduced in 1872 and the Damier check pattern from 1888, were already being widely copied.

By employing the interlocking LV initials alongside stylized floral elements—inspired by both Neo-Gothic ornamentation and Japonisme—as a repeating pattern, the monogram became one of the earliest successful examples of using a pattern for inherent authentication and immediate brand recognition. This anniversary year will celebrate this pivotal moment in design history.

The year-long celebration, kicking off on January 1st, will feature the launch of three distinct, exclusive capsule collections that reinterpret the legacy of this famous motif. These special releases are titled Monogram Origine, VVN, and Time Trunk.

The Monogram Origine collection pays homage to the earliest manufacturing techniques. This line utilizes a jacquard weave crafted from a blend of linen and cotton, presented in muted pastel tones. This color palette is a direct nod to the archival client registers from the late nineteenth century. The emphasis here is placed squarely on the lightness and supple quality of the original materials used by the House.

Shifting focus to leather craftsmanship, the VVN capsule—an abbreviation for Vache Végétale Naturelle—centers on naturally tanned cowhide. This specific leather is chosen because it develops a unique patina over time, effectively mirroring the authenticity and history of its use. This embrace of material aging as a desirable feature aligns perfectly with contemporary consumer appreciation for longevity as a hallmark of true quality.

For a more graphic approach, the Time Trunk collection employs trompe-l'oeil printing techniques. This method allows for the precise replication of the textures found on historical trunks, including the simulated appearance of rivets and metal hardware. It offers a fascinating visual illusion rooted in the brand's travel heritage.

Underpinning the entire anniversary campaign are five foundational leather goods models that serve as a continuous canvas for creative exploration. These enduring icons include the Speedy (introduced in the 1930s), the Keepall (1930), the Noé (1932), the Alma (1992), and the Neverfull (2007). These essential shapes, each born from a specific functional need, remain in continuous production today. This strategic focus on heritage, coupled with controlled scarcity for special editions, reinforces Louis Vuitton's standing in the luxury market and underscores the lasting value of these core pieces.

Further activating the celebration, themed pop-up spaces are scheduled to open in major global hubs such as Shanghai, New York, and Seoul in February 2026. These physical activations will be accompanied by corresponding advertising campaigns that prominently feature vintage bags, bridging the gap between the brand's storied past and its vibrant present.