History of the bag: Louis Vuitton Alma

Louis Vuitton Alma bags in Epi leather and Monogram canvas with strap

The second handbag the luxury brand: The Louis Vuitton Alma

The Louis Vuitton Alma is a true iconic bag, and its elegant curved and structured shape embodies classic city style. It was created in 1934 by Gaston-Louis Vuitton. The Alma was the second handbag by Louis Vuitton, after the Speedy. Rumor goes that the Alma was originally made for Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel as a custom order in 1925 already. Coco gave permission to produce the bag for the public later on. With an 80 years old history behind it, it isn't only one of the Louis Vuitton symbols but also one of the most recognizable handbags in the world. Amongst her fans was Jackie Kennedy, but nowadays celebrities like Rihanna are still spotted carrying the Alma quite often.

Rihanna with her Louis Vuitton Alma BB and Paris Hilton & Kim Kardashian in 2007 with their Alma GM bags

Rihanna with her Alma BB and Paris Hilton & Kim Kardashian in 2007 with their Alma GM bags - Pinterest

At first, the bag was called the "Squire bag". Afterwards, the name was changed to “Champs-Elysées”, after the famous street in Paris. But only the third adopted name “Alma” was a success and has been used ever since. “Alma” is named after “Place de l’Alma”, the tree lined square in Paris, where the Avenue Montaigne meets the Seine.

The design of the bag

The Louis Vuitton Alma bag was inspired by the art deco movement. The bag features bold and architectural lines, but also features the iconic leather handles called "Toron". The bag was made with functionality in mind, spacious as the bag opens wide due to the double zip and features two inside compartments. On the inside of the Alma you'll find a soft microfibre lining. Sturdy studs on the bottom of the bag protect the material from scratches and dirt. Alma is the perfect work to evening bag.

Alma comes in almost every material available by Louis Vuitton. From classic Monogram to Epi leather, from Monogram Vernis to various limited editions. Next to the different materials, the Alma comes and goes in different sizes. We've seen the Nano, BB, PM, MM and GM. Currently, the BB, PM and GM are still in production. This are the measurements of current designs:

Alma BB Alma PM Alma GM 
25 x 19 x 12 cm 32 x 24 x 15 cm 38 x 28 x 18 cm

Girls wearing the Louis Vuitton Alma MM in Vernis and Monogram canvas

The Louis Vuitton Alma MM in Monogram Vernis and Monogram - Pinterest

New Alma bags come with a leather key tag, padlock and an optional shoulder strap. You'll see the shoulder strap with the Alma BB more often. Vintage Alma bags don't often have the key tag and padlock anymore. However, this doesn't affect the style of this precious bag. Are you ready to shop yours, preloved of course? We got you! Check via this link if we have any Alma bag available at the moment or send us a message!

With love, Kayleigh

Sources
Yoogiscloset
Designer Vintage
The handbag concept

Back to blog