Top 10 Monogrammed Bags
Well, ladies and gentlemen, monogramming is back. And Versace may well be the catalyst. The Italian fashion house unveiled its La Greca monogram at its autumn-winter 2021 show in Milan, which can only mean one thing: the proverbial door to the logo movement is open again. And, surprisingly, we agree.
The maximalist craze for Louis Vuitton trunks, Dior bags and Fendi Baguettes, moving away from the minimalist aesthetic we grew used to last year, has reignited our love of monograms. If you, too, can never get enough, prepare your credit cards, because these luxury handbags are sure to be collectors' items for years to come.
The history of logomania
Monogramming is an insatiable obsession with logos, monograms and symbols associated with specific brands. Born from the materialistic mindset of the late 80s and the financial boom (thanks to Madonna, who declared herself a Material Girl), logo-emblazoned accessories quickly became part of everyday fashion thanks to their exclusive appeal and association with luxury; being spotted with a monogrammed Louis Vuitton trunk meant you were part of the fashion conversation without saying a word. At its peak in the 90s, logomania shifted from a fashion statement to a lifestyle in its own right - you were what you wore. Christian Dior's navy appliqué bags were carried like a proverbial golden ticket by style outsiders such as Paris Hilton and Carrie Bradshaw. But this meteoric trend came to an abrupt halt when the 2007 financial crisis hit, sparking a desire for a minimalist, stripped-back wardrobe.
Logomania today
It is back and bigger than ever. Dior's revival of its monogram in Maria Grazia Chiuri's first ready-to-wear collection in 2016, Alessandro Michele's use of Gucci's GG design heritage, and Claire Waight Keller's reintroduction of Givenchy's famous four "G" symbol all paved the way to where we are today - in the 90s and still obsessed. Although the trend echoes its original appearance, there is a touch of irony in these canvas and leather accessories. With counterfeits increasingly difficult to spot, these bags are no longer the elitist symbols they once were. Instead, they have become nostalgic artefacts worn by a community of people who want to stand apart from contemporary trends. As a result, this movement has made monogrammed bags "in" once again - you have to love fashion.
Here is our list of the 10 best monogrammed bags.
Discover our favourite monogrammed bags
1. Coach Shoulder
Inspired by leather baseball gloves, Coach handbags have long been a symbol of old-school America. But it was only in 2001, under the influence of the trends of the time, that the brand launched its jacquard "C" pattern, the hallmark of the Coach collection. Here, the monogrammed canvas is used subtly. Partially hidden by a front leather pocket, this bag sits between restraint and maximalism to create a look of relaxed sophistication. The detachable top handle gives you two bags in one, making it an ideal accessory for going from a family dinner to a night out with your girlfriends.
2. Gucci Horsebit
Gucci's "GG" symbol is a piece of fashion iconography that has stood the test of time. From the original creation of Guccio Gucci to the modern designs led by current creative director Alessandro Michele, the "GG" monogram is a constant emblem of Italian luxury, sometimes even of drama. In this medium-sized leather tote, the monogram appears loud and proud, displaying its heritage for all to see. The gold equestrian hardware complements the cotton canvas and elevates the bag's overall look. Thanks to its roomy interior and double handles, this bag will quickly become your go-to companion for running errands and taking the city by storm.
3. Christian Dior Book Tote
Made popular by designer John Galliano in the eighties and revived by Maria Grazia Chiuri, the appliquéd monogram pattern is a symbol of French elegance and cool. And if you don't believe us, just open your Instagram - anyone who is anyone has one. Shown on the beloved tote bag, Dior's monogram works harmoniously with the bag's design so it feels personal. You can even have your name embroidered on it. What's more, as we head back to the office, this sturdy silhouette is the perfect accessory for carrying your laptop and everyday essentials. Or why not set your OOO and head to the beach? Treat yourself to a bag that can do both.
4. Fendi Baguette
Ah, the Fendi Baguette - Carrie Bradshaw's favourite, and rightly so. Redesigned by Karl Lagerfeld in 1965, the Fendi monogram is a symbol of pure opulence and family values (Silvia Venturi Fendi still works for the brand). Here, the famous "F" logo is embroidered into the soft off-white leather in a way that subtly complements the sparkling gold hardware. Its classic oblong shape is brought up to date by its scaled-down silhouette, which is just a little cuter than the OG Baguette's.
5. Burberry Shoulder Bag Tb
An emblem of its leather accessories and classic trench coats, Burberry's iconic English check is one of luxury's most recognisable signatures. So when creative director Riccardo Tisci decided to introduce a new monogram inspired by the British house's archives, fashion aficionados were understandably concerned. However, his shoulder bag proves there was no need to question his genius. Its white stitching, interlocking monogram and gold Burberry-pattern clasp speak to the brand's new modern direction, while its gold chain handle makes it the perfect companion for an evening out.
6. Goyard Saint Louis PM Tote Bag
There are few brands like Goyard. Older than Louis Vuitton and renowned for its leather goods craftsmanship, it is no surprise that only selected retailers sell its bags. Aside from the brand's commitment to quality, it is the monogram print that sets it apart from the rest. The dots on the fabric create three adjacent chevrons forming the letter "Y", a nod to the family name. But perhaps the most remarkable quality is its durable Goyardine canvas construction - a Goyard bag is for life.
7. Balmain Jacquard Shoulder Bag
Balmain has positioned itself as the contemporary zeitgeist, illuminating the modern woman on what she needs before she knows it herself. And this shoulder bag is no different. A combination of supple leather and jacquard canvas, this bag has a vintage feel thanks to its rectangular shape inspired by 1940s postwar style. But the infusion of the Balmain monogram (a jacquard design of Pierre Balmain's initials) reflects the logomania trends of the 90s. In short, it is a bag that is of the moment, but will outlast trends too.
8. Louis Vuitton Flower Tote
We could not talk about monograms without mentioning Louis Vuitton. Created in 1896, the classic monogram has become a hallmark of the French fashion house, appearing across its accessories lines and ready-to-wear collections. In fact, the monogram has been so successful that over the years the brand has created several others, including the Damier Azur and Damier Ebène styles. Here, the classic monogram is paired with bright red leather details on a structured silhouette, for a bag that is both professional and pleasurable.
9. Saint Laurent Kate 99 Studded Shoulder Bag
While the majority of monogrammed bags are crafted in canvas and jacquard, Saint Laurent takes a different approach with this shoulder bag. Featuring the YSL logo (created in 1986), this bag is decorated with rows upon rows of gold studs, giving this accessory a rockstar edge. And as if that were not enough, the suede material and the addition of a gold chain elevate it even further.
10. Stella McCartney Falabella
In addition to creating fabulous cruelty-free handbags, Stella McCartney is also the daughter of Beatles bassist and singer Paul McCartney. So it is no surprise that the designer created a hands-free monogrammed handbag suited to festivals and gigs. Made from soft velvet and embellished with a crystal-set Stella McCartney logo, this handbag will tell the world that "you are fashionable and you know it".
