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Monogram Bag Guide: The Styles & The Stories

There is a story behind each monogram. Discover fashion’s most loved monograms and the best designer monogram bags.

Louis Vuitton monogram bags

Some monograms are more instantly recognizable than others. Most of the better-known designer brands have a monogram motif, whether they use it as a pattern or as a logo on its own.

There are some monograms that you might love and others you completely avoid. It is all down to personal preference and the wearer’s love for certain designer brands over others. In this monogram bag guide, we'll discuss the very best in designer monogram bags and where you can get them.

Let's start with the basics.

What Is A Monogram?

A monogram is defined as: ‘a symbol, usually formed from the first letters of a person's names joined together, that is sewn or printed on clothes or other possessions’. 

When we talk about monograms in fashion, it usually refers to a monogram logo that is designed into an all-over pattern. The monogram style can be presented in a bold way or in a low-key way, depending on the color combinations and size of the monograms.

Fashion's Famous Monograms

1. Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton monogram

Probably the most widely known monogram in fashion is the Louis Vuitton monogram. The fashion house calls it ‘The Monogram’. 

This monogram pattern marries the crossover LV initials with clover-inspired motifs and it is typically seen on the brown canvas accessories. Other instances when it is used are when it is printed on clothing or embossed onto patent or smooth leather.

The Louis Vuitton monogram was designed by Georges Vuitton, the son of Louis Vuitton himself. It was introduced in 1896 to honor his father and founder of the french fashion house. 

2. Dior

Dior Oblique

Dior’s take on the monogram is the Oblique pattern. Slightly different to the classic monogram, this one includes the full brand name as opposed to only the initials. 

This motif was created by Marc Bohan in 1967 and it is most commonly seen on the brand’s accessories. In 1974, the pattern was used on the floors and steps of the Dior Monsieur boutique. 

Oblique was particularly popular during the ‘70s and in 1997 John Galliano brought it back into vogue when he introduced the Saddle bag featuring the pattern.

3. Gucci

Gucci monogram

The Gucci monogram is most often presented as a neutral monogram pattern on canvas, which is known as ‘GG Supreme’. 

Gucci’s logos date back to its earliest days, however the monogram pattern beige canvas as we know it was first seen in the 1960s. The monogram motif has one G facing upwards and one facing down, combined into one design. The two Gs represent Gucci’s founder Guccio Gucci’s initials. 

Just like the Louis Vuitton monogram, this one is most commonly displayed on canvas accessories, but it is also woven into knitted accessories, too.

4. Celine

Celine monogram

Celine’s monogram is called the Triomphe logo and it features two ornate ‘C’ motifs mirroring each other.

The design was dug out of the archives in 2018 by Hedi Slimane. The motif was originally conceived by the brand’s founder Céline Vipiana, when she noticed the chain surrounding the Arc de Triomphe had a mirrored C shape. 

This is what inspired Slimane to name the reintroduced logo ‘Triomphe’. There is also a Celine bag that is named after the monogram itself. 

5. Saint Laurent

YSL monogram

The brand dropped the ‘Yves’ before its name and became Saint Laurent in 2012, four years after the founder passed. However, the accessories collection still uses Yves Saint Laurent and the famous YSL monogram.

Although perhaps best known as a logo on its own, it is incorporated into an all-over monogram on some of the bags.

The Best Monogram Bags

Now that we've discussed the monograms, it's time to get into the bags. If you weren't looking to add to your bag collection, you might just change your mind. With so many monogram options, these are some of the best monogram bags on offer:

1. Louis Vuitton Neverfull Bag

Louis Vuitton Neverfull bags

A classic for good reason, the Louis Vuitton Neverfull bag marries practicality with timeless style. The roomy bag has a convenient open top for everyday use and comes in three different sizes. 

The bag usually includes a matching pouch for organizing your personal items. You can detach the pouch from the bag and wear it separately as well.

2. Dior Book Tote Bag

Dior Book Tote bags

In the same vein as the Louis Vuitton Neverfull, the Dior Book Tote is perfect for everyday use. Designed in all-over embroidery, this high quality bag combines the Oblique monogram with logo lettering emblazoned on one side. 

Typically, the monogrammed tote is in a blue colorway or neutral colors like gray or beige.

3. Gucci Monogram Marmont Shoulder Bag

Gucci Marmont bags The Gucci Marmont is typically constructed in matelassé leather, however this monogram version is a striking alternative. The canvas monogram version comes in a variety of colorways for a playful accessory.

The shoulder bag either has a top-zip fastening or a front flap. Either way, a Double G logo plaque punctuates the front for further logo detailing.

4. Celine Triomphe Canvas Vertical Cabas Tote

 Celine cabas tote bags

Featuring the Triomphe monogram in an all-over pattern, this structured tote bag from Celine is printed with bold logo lettering across the front in a large font. The Triomphe tote bag is available in different sizes.

5. Saint Laurent All Over Monogram Crossbody Bag

Saint Laurent monogram bags

Practical and stylish, this monogram crossbody bag from Saint Laurent showcases the famous YSL logo in all its glory. The small size of the monogram makes it a low-key everyday style.

This is a great example of when a monogram pattern manages to look minimalist. The contrast between the color of the suede and the color of the monogram motifs makes it look more subdued.

Where To Buy Designer Monogram Bags?

There is no better place to find great designer monogram bags than myGemma. With a wide array of brands, myGemma stocks big names such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci.

Each and every item on the website has gone through a stringent authentication process before becoming available for purchase. myGemma guarantees authenticity or your money back. 

Shop designer bags at prices to love, as well as other luxury accessories such as jewelry and watches. Download the app for first access to the best-loved designs.

How To Sell Designer Monogram Bags Online?

Got a designer bag you no longer show love? If you have any designer accessories gathering dust in the back of your closet, it might be time to consider selling.

myGemma is the safe and quick way to sell. From price quote to payment, the selling process can take as little as 24 hours. There is no middleman and no hidden fees, so the price quote you get is the price you get.

Simply fill out the simple online form to get started and a member of the myGemma team will get in touch with a price quote.

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