The Louis Vuitton Speedy Bag is arguably one of the most recognizable (and most coveted) designer bags of our time. It’s a true classic that was first conceptualized in the early 1930s. Though the original Speedy lacks a shoulder strap, it was intended for daily carry, modeled after another Louis Vuitton classic: the Keepall.
First introduced in the 30 size, the bag now comes in 3 additional sizes, not to mention multiple colors, fabrications, and there’s even a version with a built-in shoulder strap: the Speedy Bandouliere.
The Speedy bag is a must-have for every bag lover. It’s not only on the more affordable side, but it’s also both stylish and functional. Not to mention, we’ve got 4 non-invasive tips and ticks to help you get even more out of your Speedy bag! We took the below hacks for a spin using a vintage Speedy 35.
DIY O-Ring Strap
Our first hack works wonders not only for functionality (we all could use a longer strap from time to time!), but also to add a bit of flair. Personally I purchased my speedy before the Speedy B was a thing, and though I’m unsure which I would have chosen had the Speedy B been around already, nothing beats the original.
The Speedy B might be a bit more functional, but the original Speedy is a true classic. Fear not though, we’ve got you covered with this trendy hack! These acrylic chain straps are available via Etsy or Amazon, and with a tiny gold hook, you’ve instantly made your Speedy both a bit edgier and a bit easier to handle too!
Interior Pocket Liner for Makeup
Last week I polled you all to see how you tote around your cosmetics, and in the post I discussed how I previously made use of interior pockets when I mainly used larger bags. My Speedy’s pocket, especially, has carried tons of lipsticks and powder palettes and I can definitely tell you I’ve had to wipe up a few stains
This hack is not only simple, but it’s also both cheap and incredibly effective! All you need is a sandwich bag and a pair of scissors. Instantly you’ve got a place to store your cosmetics while protecting your bag at the same time.
Crossbody Scarf Hack
Another easy way to up both your bag’s function and fashion game is to use a scarf to create a crossbody strap. Here we used an Hermès Twillon, carefully tying it around the outside metal strap loop. Be sure to tie the scarf on opposite ends (one on the bag’s back, and the opposite handle on the bag’s front, as shown).
Interior Bag Shapers
My favorite hack of all, though a lot more practical than fun, are these incredibly useful bag shapers. I had my Speedy 25 packed away in storage for almost 5 years without a single use. When I took my little lady out for a spin I was upset at how misshapen it was. I used to store it flattened out, and though I’ve begun to store it super stuffed, it still doesn’t hold its shape well at all. I’m about to order one of these for my bag too!
This horrible advice! You should never place a strap on the handles that don’t have additional D rings! Your bag will warp, twist and be deformed over time from weight and the unnatural way of carrying it! And best part: LV will not help you with repairs as it will be quite obvious that you didn’t use the bag as it was intended.
If you want a speedy with a cross body get the Bandolier!
Highly disappointed in purseblog for such foolish suggestions. People with no experience will damage their bags! ?????
You stated LV will not help you with repairs. I wouldn’t count on LV helping with repairs, period! I’ve bought several items and never had them stand behind their product. I like their bags and accessories but when I buy, realize that if anything needs repair, its on me.
LV in SF Uion Square. Is where I would get my repairs. It would take 30 days or so. N ow they have left SF
The acrylic chain is really cool! And that site has lots of different colors too. Great hack!
This was a fun, creative and interesting article! Total disclosure… I don’t typically read any post thoroughly because I mostly look at the gorgeous handbag photos. (I’m also that person who goes to a restaurant and reads the desert menu first, to see if there is anything good, and then plan my meal accordingly). ? However, I read this in its entirety and thoroughly enjoyed it! ?
I purchased two of these felt liners on Amazon, and it’s been a fantastic purchase! Not only does it keep your bag’s shape during storage, it’s so nice to keep everything from sinking to the bottom and retain the shape even while wearing.
Can you share a link with the specific ones you purchased on Amazon? Thx!
LEXSION Felt Fabric Purse Handbag Organizer Bag – MultiPocket Insert Bag 8008 Black L https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0748HTBGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_FGTmEb5PT6BHM
Thank you, I appreciate it!
Hi speedy lovers, as we all know, this particular silhouette can turn into a bit of a dark hole where items get lost. The visibility isn’t great either due to the shape of the zipper opening. So in addition to a light colored organizer (super smart btw, you can always throw it in the wash if necessary), I found a motion activated light on Amazon that makes my things easier to find ! I just hook it on the inside D ring of the bag : life changing !
A few days ago I saw Brainstream on Amazon for $29.95. Was it this or another one?
I actually found some super cheap ones (around $12) just by searching “handbag light” on Amazon, I think the brands are called WEDO and Wasserstein. They have round or heart-shaped designs and different colors. You can also go for the SOL ones that live at the bottom of your bag and have a motion sensor (more around the $30 mark like you saw).
Perfect, thank you!
No problem 🙂
@Kaitlin – did you iron-on or sew those patches on to your speedy? I ADORE the look and while it’s more of an irreversible change, I think it’s entirely appropriate to perk up an older speedy. Any tips and tricks to getting the patches to sit nice and flat on the canvas surface?
I’ve always preferred the look of a well-worn Speedy to a brand new one, so now I’m inspired to buy a cheap used one from a reseller and personalize for myself too!
Hey there,
I began by curating all the patches and plotting them out on the bag. I used liquid stitch to hold them in place temporarily then had taken it to the leather spa to stitch in with a sewing machine since that looks cleaner and I don’t know how to sew! Unfortunately this is very invasive so be sure! Another tip is to buy high quality patches so they don’t fray or fall apart on you. 🙂
Sweet, thank you for coming back to share! That is super helpful and I can’t wait to get started on my own custom bag 🙂
Of coarse! Honestly it was really fun and now is one of my most complimented bags. Such a good way to make a bag fun to carry again. Do post photos when you’re done!
As mentioned at the bottom of the post, the photos are shot by a member of our social team Jess. It’s her vintage bag! I can find out more info for you! We chose not to include the patch work in the post as it’s definitely not a ‘non-invasive’ hack. 🙂
Ah, I see. Well, Jess has done a wonderful job with her bag, so any info she wants to pass along would be appreciated!
Agreed! I’d love to see a post on that because my speedy has been unused for several years now, I don’t think I’d mind customizing it! She did a great job!
I can ask Jess if she wants to share info on how she did that!
YES! I’m getting ready to do this too!
I like to use a shoulder strap on my classic Speedy as well, but be careful when doing this. I ignored what looked like a shallow surface crack that developed on one of the chaps on my vintage Speedy 25, and it broke one day while I was using it with a strap. I ended up having to replace all 4 chaps. Consider the age and condition of the leather when deciding whether it’s safe to use a strap. Its probably also best to alternate where you connect the strap in order to lessen the stress on the chaps. I would also advise not filling the bag or carrying anything heavy when using a strap with your classic Speedy. Also, I find that there is less pulling on the canvas when you connect the strap on the inside of the handle rather than on the outside.
I actually like the acrylic chain much better than Louis Vuittons neon coloured ones – colours are a lot more agreeable. Louis Vuttion offers some nice twillys (Edit : sorry ‘bandeau’) and scarves you could use, not really low budget though.
I love the idea of the bag shaper. My Speedy is so old, it was my high school graduation gift in 1986, it has no interior pocket and no lining. It’s still in perfect condition I should really carry it more often!
I want to know how the patches were put on. I know they require heat. Did you steam them on? Wonderful job! I have a lot of patches I would like to do this with.
She said “I used liquid stitch to hold them in place temporarily then had taken it to the leather spa to stitch in with a sewing machine since that looks cleaner and I don’t know how to sew”!
Drop a magazine in the bottom of your Speedy and it keeps it’s shape even when it’s not full.
For the price, am I being a complainer for saying a simple shaper should come with the bag?
I love this post! Please more like it, also throw in ideas for revitalising designer shoes! 🙂