Why Are Louis Vuitton Bags So Expensive?
When speaking of high end fashion, a few brands immediately come to mind. One of them is Louis Vuitton. Louis Vuitton is an iconic brand that produces some of the most sought-after clothing items and accessories. Specifically, Louis Vuitton bags are some of the most desirable in the world.
You must be willing to spend a significant chunk of change to purchase an authentic LV bag. If you have ever went to buy one, you might wonder why Louis Vuitton bags are so expensive. This question is a great one, and in this article we’ll answer below.
Why Do Louis Vuitton Bags Cost So Much?
There are several reasons why Louis Vuitton bags cost more than regular designer handbags. The primary reason is the brand equity they’ve built up over the years, and the quality and cultural associations that surround the brand. LV can produce a bag that looks identical to another brand’s bag but can change much more because carrying that bag gives you a sense of class and elegance.
But of course, this is only one reason. Let’s expand more on this, as well as look at the many other factors that make the cost what it is.
Craftsmanship and Labor
The other reason why Louis Vuitton bags are so expensive is related to the work and craftsmanship it takes to make them.
Creating a high-quality LV product requires well-trained artisans in the production process. Before you are allowed to work in a Louis Vuitton production, you must undergo anywhere from 18-24 months of training. Receiving the title of a Louis Vuitton craftsperson is a prestigious title sought after by many artisans.
The people making Louis Vuittons are highly skilled and live in countries like Italy, France, Spain, and the US and, as a result, demand high wages.
It also takes time to make these bags, which is why the craftspeople are paid a living wage. Even after production, each bag goes through several inspection stages to ensure that it meets Louis Vuitton’s high-quality control standards. Louis Vuitton discards many bags because they don’t make the cut.
Finally, Louis Vuitton doesn’t cut corners. In an age when many companies are turning towards automation and robots to cut costs, Louis Vuitton continues to rely on the human element to create high-quality goods.
Innovation and Cutting Edge Fashion
Louis Vuitton is known for producing bags on the cutting edge of fashion. The brand constantly creates new designs, styles, and materials that stand out from the crowd, which helps to ensure that all Louis Vuitton products remain desirable and fashionable.
In addition, Louis Vuitton is constantly introducing new products that are both stylish and practical. New types help keep their products relevant for years to come.
While the dedication to innovation and new styles keep people interested in the brand, it is also expensive. All the research, development, and production costs associated with new products add up.
Plus, Louis Vuitton hires some of the best and brightest minds in fashion to create their handbags. Many different fashion companies highly desire these fashion experts, and brands are charged a pretty penny for their expertise.
As a result, Louis Vuitton has to charge higher prices for their products to cover these costs.
High-Quality Materials and Fabrics
In addition to the labor involved in making the bags, there is also the cost of materials. Louis Vuitton only uses the finest materials in their products, and they don’t skimp on quality.
They use top-of-the-line, high-grade leather and fabrics in their products, ensuring that they look and feel luxurious.
Louis Vuitton only contracts with the highest quality leather, fabrics, and clothes providers. The individuals and companies who produce the fabrics that LV uses are at the top of their craft, and their materials are in high demand. Also, high-quality fabrics are not mass-produced but only made in the right conditions. The quality and craftsmanship of the fabrics add another cost to Louis Vuitton’s already pricey production line.
Louis Vuitton is also known for their monogrammed canvas, which is made from specially treated cotton. This fabric is solid and durable, making it ideal for many products.
In addition, all the hardware used on Louis Vuitton products is from high-grade metals. All these features come with a price tag, which adds up quickly when considering all the materials used to make Louis Vuitton products.
The Cost of Marketing
To understand why Louis Vuitton bags are so expensive, you must continue to follow the trail of money after the production line. Even after Louis Vuitton produces their bags, they still have to sell them. A company has no business without sales, even for companies as famous as Louis Vuitton.
They spend a lot on marketing, with ads in magazines and billboards worldwide. They also sponsor many events to keep their products in the limelight. Every time you see a Louis Vuitton ad or commercial or see an influencer wear a Louis Vuitton product, the company has to pay for that. It is estimated that Louis Vuitton spent 6.265 million Euros on marketing in 2019 and almost five million euros in 2020!
This marketing is expensive, but it’s necessary to let people know that Louis Vuitton products exist. Without marketing, Louis Vuitton would not be the prestigious brand it is today.
The Cost of Running Louis Vuitton Stores
Of course, Louis Vuitton also has to pay for running their stores. They have stores in some of the most expensive shopping districts in the world, like Fifth Avenue in New York City. There are over 5,500 Louis Vuitton stores worldwide.
It’s expensive to maintain these stores and keep them stocked with products. Louis Vuitton must pay for the upkeep of these stores and the salaries for all the employees working there.
These retail costs add to the overall price of Louis Vuitton products that customers eventually have to pay.
The Demand for Louis Vuitton
A simple economic principle measures supply, demand, and price. When demand is high, and supply is low, the price of a product goes up.
The principle of supply and demand is undoubtedly accurate for Louis Vuitton. It is one of the most sought-after fashion brands in the world. People line up for days to get their hands on a new Louis Vuitton product.
The brand has a loyal customer base, and its products are some of the most sought-after items in the fashion world, so naturally, people are willing to pay high prices.
Louis Vuitton also keeps the demand high through its brand reputation and marketing. They can also keep supply low by limiting the number of bags they produce and preventing people from selling fake Louis Vuitton bags.
There is one final reason Louis Vuitton keeps the supply low and the demand high. Louis Vuitton is known to destroy large numbers of their bags if they are not selling well. They have a policy that if the bags don’t sell in a specific period, the company will destroy them to maintain their image as a luxury brand.
Exclusivity and Limited Production Runs
Louis Vuitton keeps their production runs small and exclusive. Limited production runs mean that the demand for their products is higher than the actual availability of those products.
Louis Vuitton also has some limited edition and special run collections that come from time to time, like the collaboration with Jeff Koons.
The limited edition collections add to the exclusivity of Louis Vuitton and make them even more desirable for people who want to show off their luxury purchases.
Additionally, Louis Vuitton prohibits other companies from producing copycat bags and clothing and will aggressively come after people who violate their copyrights.
The History of Louis Vuitton and the Value of Its Brand
The first reason Louis Vuitton bags are so expensive is because of the brand’s value.
Louis Vuitton has a long, storied history that dates back to 1854, when the brand first started creating bags with the goal of offering superior craftsmanship and quality. Louis Vuitton began his career as a French designer who made trunks and opened his first shop at the age of 33. Since then, Louis Vuitton has become a symbol of luxury and exclusivity.
This brand’s iconic logo is one of the most easily recognizable worldwide because LV has been strategically building its brand for over 150 years. As a result, the LV name is a sign of quality and luxury that people associate with only the best.
In addition, Louis Vuitton is an expert when it comes to marketing and branding. The brand has a strong presence in the fashion world, and you can see its bags on the arms of celebrities and socialites.
Louis Vuitton also employs expert craftspeople who use only the finest materials and adhere to the company’s strict quality control standards. The strict quality control standards make their products look impeccable and stylish.
Louis Vuitton Is a Status Symbol
One of the fundamental reasons why Louis Vuitton handbags are so expensive is because of what they symbolize. The brand is known for its luxurious and high-end products, making it a status symbol of wealth and power.
Many people use Louis Vuitton bags to show off their wealth and success. If a bag symbolizes wealth and success, it cannot be cheap. So for Louis Vuitton to remain a status symbol, they must charge high prices.
Therefore, when you buy a Louis Vuitton bag, you are paying for more than just the product itself. You’re also paying for the quality, craftsmanship, and reputation that come with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some frequently asked questions about Louis Vuitton bags.
Are All Louis Vuitton bags handmade?
No, not all Louis Vuitton bags are handmade. While some of its higher-end products are still handmade, Louis Vuitton makes most of their products using machine-assisted processes.
Are Louis Vuitton bags worth the money?
Yes, Louis Vuitton bags are worth the money. You get a quality, well-made product that will last a long time, and you also get the added benefit of a luxurious and iconic brand name.
Do Louis Vuitton bags hold their value?
Yes, Louis Vuitton bags hold their value quite well. The high-quality materials and craftsmanship that go into them can be resold for a similar amount to what you paid for them, making them a good investment.
Are Louis Vuitton bags good quality?
Louis Vuitton bags are known for their high quality and craftsmanship. They use the best materials available and employ skilled artisans to ensure that each product meets their high standards.
Why is Louis Vuitton so famous?
Louis Vuitton is famous for its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and luxury. They have been around for over 150 years and continue to produce some of the most sought-after items in the fashion world.
Many of the most famous and beautiful people in the world wear Louis Vuitton, which increases their appeal and the celebrity of their brand.
Additionally, Louis Vuitton pursues legal action against anyone trying to infringe on its copyright, ensuring its brand name is always respected and admired.
Is Louis Vuitton more expensive than Gucci?
Yes, Louis Vuitton is generally more expensive than Gucci because of the high-end materials used and the fact that they are a luxury brand with limited production runs.
The Louis Vuitton name also adds to the cost, as it is synonymous with wealth and power and is a status symbol for many people.
Why does Louis Vuitton never go on sale?
Louis Vuitton does not offer their products on sale because they are a luxury brand and want to maintain its reputation as such. Additionally, the demand for their bags is so high that they do not need to offer sales.
Where can I buy cheap Louis Vuitton Bags?
Cheap Louis Vuitton bags are not easy to find. While some knockoff sites try to copy the brand, these are all illegal, and you should avoid them.
The only safe way to buy a Louis Vuitton bag is through their official website or an authorized reseller. Occasionally you can find cheaper pre-owned Louis Vuitton bags on sites like eBay and other online stores.
Why Are Louis Vuitton Bags So Expensive? Closing Thoughts
So why are Louis Vuitton bags so expensive? All these factors contribute to why Louis Vuitton bags are so expensive. Louis Vuitton takes pride in their craftsmanship, materials, and brand name, which is why they are so pricey.
Whether you’re looking for something to show off your status or want to carry a quality-made bag, Louis Vuitton has something for you.
With their exquisite craftsmanship and luxurious reputation, Louis Vuitton bags are sure to be an investment you can rely on for years to come.
Do you have a favorite Louis Vuitton bag? Let us know in the comments below.
