The Timeless Appeal of the Louis Vuitton Papillon

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Some bags are born to be admired. Others are born to be lived with. The Louis Vuitton Papillon—with its charming cylindrical shape and signature monogram canvas—manages to be both.

First introduced in 1966, the Papillon (French for “butterfly”) was designed by Henri Racamier, husband of Gaston-Louis Vuitton’s granddaughter and a key figure in transforming Louis Vuitton into a global fashion house. With its rounded silhouette and minimal hardware, the bag offered a refreshing break from the boxy shapes of the era. It quickly became a symbol of effortless French chic.

Nearly six decades later, the Papillon still feels fresh. Its barrel design fits surprisingly more than you’d expect, making it just as practical as it is pretty. And in vintage form, it carries something extra: history, charm, and the rich honeyed patina of aged vachetta leather—that soft, golden tone collectors adore.

At Poetro, we specialise in exactly this kind of beauty. Our vintage Papillon bags are handpicked for their quality and authenticity, and each one is cared for with expert hands. We don’t just sell bags—we preserve stories. And we make sure they’re ready for the next chapter with you.

Whether you're styling it with denim and a blazer or a soft silk dress, a vintage Papillon always adds that unmistakable touch of Louis Vuitton heritage. And if you’re wondering how to care for it—we’ve got you. Our Poetro Care Sets include everything you need to gently clean, hydrate, and protect your vachetta leather and canvas, all tested and approved by our founder in Nice, France.

So when you choose a vintage bag from Poetro, you’re not just buying an accessory. You’re carrying a piece of design history, lovingly preserved and ready for modern life. You’re also choosing sustainability, craftsmanship, and care. Because here, vintage isn’t second-hand. It’s second life—with style.