Battle of totes: LOUIS VUITTON Neverfull or GOYARD St. Louis??

One of the most popular and common questions, when it comes to luxury totes, is which one is better - Neverfull by Louis Vuitton or St. Louis by Goyard? These two totes always compete for the Crown of Totes. They are very similar in shape, size, form, brand value and price, however they have slight differences and can send different messages about their owner. 

Even though both totes can retail for over a $1000, used or brand new, they are an extremely long-lasting and a super functional item. Both of these totes can be used not only as an everyday/errand bag, but also as a work/school bag, a diaper bag, a beach tote, travel/carry-on bag and so much more. The sky is the limit!

While often times it just comes to the brand loyalty and personal preferences, we have rounded up some tips and tricks, pros and cons for those who have questions about functionality and smart investment.

LOUIS VUITTON NEVERFULL

Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull tote was created in 2007 and has become one of the most popular and iconic bags of the company due to its convenience, lightweight and functionality. 

It comes in three sizes -

GM (15.7 x 13.0 x 7.9 inches)

MM (12.6 x 11.4 x 6.7 inches)

PM (11.4 x 8.7 x 5.1 inches)

The classic choices of colours are; three signature Louis Vuitton’s canvas palettes — Damier Ebène (a black canvas base, printed over with brown checkerboard), Damier Azur (a blue base and a white checkerboard overlay), and a brown Monogram. But recently the house has introduced more choices of colours for the tote, which comes in epi leather. Also customers have a choice of colours for the interior of the bag. In addition, the tote can be monogrammed and customized with colourful initials and patterns. However, if you plan to resell it in a few years time, customization obviously decreases the resale value.

The material of Neverfull is either epi leather or coated canvas with natural cowhide leather trim. The canvas is extremely durable, doesn’t leave marks and is water resistant! Any spills can be easily removed by wet wipes.

The tote features an inside pocket and a removable zipper clutch, which is very helpful to keep the bag organized and as clutter-free as possible. The bag is incredibly spacious - it lives up to its name and is truly never full!

For those who prefer slimmer structure, the bag also has side laces, which can clinch the sides for a sleek shape. This feature creates two choices of shapes in one tote. In addition, quality tests show that the Neverfull GM can actually withstand 100 years of constant use and carry up to 200 lbs.

Neverfull is a true investment. While the prices in Louis Vuitton stores go up every year, once you purchase your own and you take a good care of it, in a couple of years you can resell it at a descent price. Also, the demand for vintage Louis Vuitton is growing stronger because the beige cowhide skin on handles gets oxidized with time (a sign of an authentic LV) and many people prefer that darker look. Also, with time the handles and straps get slightly worn in and become softer. Some owners of Neverfull mention that in the beginning the handles were so stiff that they would have rather got one from a consignment store with a broken in handles. But that is a matter of preference.

GOYARD ST.LOUIS

Maison Goyard has been in the luxury handbag business since 1853, but it has managed to maintain its exclusive reputation, artisanal craftsmanship and impeccable quality up to this day.

St. Louis tote comes in two sizes:

GM (19 x 11 x 6 inches)

PM (12 x 13 x 7 inches)

The tote is made of a signature logo Goyard canvas, also known as Goyardine, which consists of cotton, hemp, and linen. It is waterproof, scratch free and super durable. Due to the material, the bag is extremely lightweight, which allows you to put as much in it as you wish and not kill your shoulders. However, the lightness of the material makes a tote much softer and not as structured as Neverfull. Nevertheless many owners appreciate this softness, which gives more of a relaxed look and comfort.

There are plenty of colours to choose from - from classic black and beige to the various shades of rainbow. However, special colours are $300-400 more expensive. Goyard also provides its customers an option to monogram their tote. 

St. Louis tote features a detachable pochette inside, which is very helpful to keep small items, such as keys organized. Although, it is not as spacious as the one in Neverfull and cannot be double used as a separate clutch. Also, keep in mind that there is no zippered pocket compartment inside the bag.

The fact that the brand’s products are not available to buy online (besides online consignments stores like Lux Second Chance) and can only be purchased in a limited number of stores worldwide, hence why it has become a desirable cult item within the fashion community everywhere. Celebrities love it as well. It is rarely seen in the streets thus making it more exclusive and appreciated.

  

CONCLUSION

While these two totes are very similar and always compete for the crown, it really comes to the customer and what they personally prefer.

Neverfull is a sleeker and elegant tote but seen everywhere and almost on everyone while the St. Louis has less structure but more chic and the colours are just stunning!  Neverfull is more of a city tote, which can adapt from a travel carry-on to a serious business bag. In the meantime, St. Louis can function as a city bag, but also can easily serve as a handy bag by the pool or as a beach bag that you don’t have to worry about damaging.

The downfall of Neverfull is that it is too popular and in any big city, like Toronto, you can see every fifth woman carrying it or its fake copy. Meanwhile St. Louis is more exclusive and a rare tote due to its limited accessibility and more in-the-know clientele.

So, the real question is, which one do you prefer?

Image credits: The Sweetest Thing Blog, Alyson Haley, Purse Blog, Google