The Origin of Louis Vuitton

Morning Louis!

You know Louis Vuitton?

The $300 BILLION luxury fashion brand? 

It was created by a… homeless boy.

But how???

So it's 1821…

Louis Vuitton, a 13-year-old farmer's boy, flees his home to go to Paris.

With no money or food…

He works odd jobs with craftsmen who teach him how to work with fabrics and wood.

But he makes almost no money.

Just enough to feed himself but not enough to house himself…

So he sleeps in the woods with only a cloak to keep him warm.

Now, at the time, Paris’s first railway line had just opened, making travel WAY more accessible.

Local Craftsmen see this great opportunity and start making custom travel cases for rich aristocrats.

Like these:

So Louis is like:

Luckily, a local craftsman, Monsieur Maréchal, hires Louis as his apprentice, making these travel cases. 

And while the pay isn’t great, his eagerness and willingness to learn are about to pay off!

Soon, Louis’ cases are so good that he becomes a favourite among Maréchal’s clients. 

The literal EMPRESS OF FRANCE appoints Louis as her personal box-maker.

Soon… EVERYBODY wants Louis’ cases.

This is when Louis starts experimenting with different products and materials.

He starts using the material canvas instead of leather since it’s lighter, durable, and WAY more water resistant.

But then, by a stroke of luck, technology advances enough to print custom patterns on fabric. 

And canvas is a fabric… 

So Louis can create cases and bags with all sorts of fancy patterns. 

These new designs take off immediately. 

Everybody wants them: explorers, aristocrats, politicians, businessmen, royals…

(as long as they were rich)

Soon, the name Louis Vuitton became synonymous with luxury.

That little homeless boy finally made it!

Stay Cute,
Henry & Dylan 🌈

P.S if you enjoyed this lesson, forward it to a friend.

If you’re that sexy friend, subscribe here.