To celebrate the wedding of Prince Harry to Meghan Markle in May 2018 the luxury brand Louis Vuitton created limited edition versions of some their most iconic and sought after handbags – the Keepall, Speedy, Neo Noe and Petit Malle. The Union Jack was perhaps the obvious and only choice for a suitably patriotic motif; its bold horizontal, vertical and diagonal lines created an interesting dynamic with the similarly well known and loved LV logo.
The Pedestal’s Handbags and Luxury Accessories consultant specialist Charlotte Rogers recently handled the sale of a Louis Vuitton Royal Wedding Speedy bag from the 2018 limited edition production of 85, and here she describes why special pieces such as this are increasingly in demand.
Louis Vuitton operates in 50 countries with over 460 stores worldwide and has a strong online presence too, so the luxury goods company looked to exclusivity combined with quirkiness and a small production run in its nod to the Royal Wedding. LV’s chosen handbag styles were emblazoned with the Union Jack, with the monogram canvas in complimentary blue – and, importantly they were only available to buy in the New Bond Street flagship store.
Luxury brands are more and more adding exclusive limited edition pieces to their inventory – in a world crowded with promotional messages the initiative is vital to the creation of news stories leading to press coverage and helps the brand to stand apart. The buyer has several choices – she can enjoy using an unique, ‘talking point’ accessory or instead, can keep the handbag in its dustbag whilst keeping an eye on the market. Personally, I think limited edition handbags should be bought to be used and admired and loved by their owners.
French luxury goods manufacturer Hermès always follows the limited edition concept in the production of its Birkin, Kelly, and Constance handbags. Arguably the most sought after of luxury accessories, Hermès produces these designs in small batches to celebrate significant anniversaries in its own history as well as important world and cultural events. A unique blend of exotic skins, a special colour or colour combination, custom bespoke artwork or scarce hardware are used in various combinations to distinguish each Hermès limited edition.
My own favourite limited edition? That would have to be Richard Prince’s Watercolour Collection for Louis Vuitton: a fun and elegant riff on the LV logo and a great example of luxury brand and contemporary artist collaboration.
At The Pedestal we have access to a large group of global clients interested in purchasing rare and special luxury handbags and accessories. We would be delighted to hear from you should you be considering selling at auction or by private sale.
Contact us: charlotte@thepedestal.com | +44 (0)207 281 2790