Louis Vuitton's GO-14 Bag

When Nicolas Ghesquiere searched for inspiration for his debut bag, he found it in the past, specifically hidden in old Louis Vuitton travel trunks. The refined crisscross pattern, called a galon trim, on their insides was simple, yet ingenious. It kept items and documents in their place during the rigours of travelling. Ghesquiere unleashed the pattern to the world in October 2014 during his runway debut, hence the name of the bag—GO-14, which stands for Ghesquiere October 2014.

The malletage on the Louis Vuitton GO-14 bag is inspired by the insides of the classic Louis Vuitton trunk
The malletage on the Louis Vuitton GO-14 bag is inspired by the insides of the classic Louis Vuitton trunk.

Ghesquiere is bringing the bag back for autumn/winter 2023 and updating the galon trim, or malletage. It’s a real challenge for Louis Vuitton artisans. The malletage requires over 20 steps, from leather selection to finished product, 17 metres worth of leather, and a lot of skill. A highly precise technique is also needed to create the rounded malletage of each GO-14 bag. It’s more complex than traditional quilting.

Twenty steps and 17-metres worth of leather are required to create the malletage of the Louis Vuitton GO-14 bag
Twenty steps and 17-metres worth of leather are required to create the malletage of the Louis Vuitton GO-14 bag.

The new bags also feature overstitching that highlight the crisscross pattern and curves while enhancing their cushiony feel. It’s crafted from padded lambskin. A new jewel chain doubles as an accessory, thanks to a groove system, should you choose to carry it tucked under your arm instead of on your shoulder.

It might just be a bag, but the GO-14 bag represents the culmination of Louis Vuitton’s savoir-faire and long heritage. And it’s something you can carry every day.

ADVERTISEMENT

Recommended