The best things in life are the simple things, right? And strangely enough that logic can apply to luxury designer goods, too. Louis Vuitton is one brand that has proven how a really basic style can reap huge rewards, and they don't come much more straightforward than the Speedy.
Handbag History: Back in the 1930s the Speedy, along with the Hermes Kelly, was part of a 'new generation' of handbags designed for the automobile age. Originally called the 'Express'. its name refers to its deliberate positioning as an accessory intended for use in a faster-paced world, and in many ways it is an updated version of the larger Keepall, which remains its closest bag relative.
An even smaller version - the Speedy 25 - was designed on Audrey Hepburn's orders after she asked Henri-Louis Vuitton to specially make her a bespoke miniature Speedy. To distinguish between the sizes, the 'standard' Speedy is also known as the 'Speedy 30', while a larger-sized speedy goes under the name of 'Speedy 40'.
In Our View: Despite being one of the oldest bags in our countdown, the Speedy has a perpetually youthful look about it that has not lost its appeal in its 70-year history. Again, simplicity is key, and the unfussy design has been a gift to LV, who have re-vamped and re-worked its looks many times, from the classic initial print and check versions to floral and graffiti-strewn style.
The speedy is a unisex bag -that builds on the success of LV's luggage empire and history of innovation, practicality and 'getting there first'. It seems likely that it will endure for the next 70 years or more!
Also in the Speedy's favour is its longevity and relative affordability, making it an absolutely perfect investment purchase: in the context of iconic designer bags it is fairly inexpensive, and has a reputation for being pretty much indestructible!
Celeb Fans: Audrey Hepburn, Madonna, Jessica Simpson, Hilary Duff, Andre Agassi, Hayden Panettiere, Tyra Banks, Avril Lavine, Ashley Tisdale, Miley Cyrus, Jessica Love Hewitt,
Get the Look: Different variations on the Speedy are available direct from Louis Vuitton, so there's no need to search high and low if you want to own this timeless style. Prices start at £415 for the monogram leather Speedy 30, and rocket up to around £1,500 for special editions.
