The Vuitton name has carved out one of the world's strongest niches. Their handbags are classic, sheik, elegant, timeless, and any other positive word you could dream of attaching. The Louis Vuitton name is no stranger to fashion enthusiasts around the world. And since the mid 1800s, many people have been well aware of their overall presence and influence on subsequent style.

In 2008, the name Louis Vuitton is synonymous with high fashion. And most of their stardom has to do with the classic handbags they sell, but they also offer shoes and other accessories.

Louis Vuitton came onto the scene in Paris circa 1854. The brand started primarily as a developer of high-end, handcrafted leather luggage. Shortly thereafter, their handcrafted handbags quickly became a huge hit with many of the women in France.

It only took a few decades before the Vuitton name was known all throughout Europe. Throughout his life, Louis was a huge hit in the fashion world. And this is evidenced by the many ventures he undertook, all of which panned out brilliantly.

In 1860, Louis relocated his company to the town of Asnières, where he would be met with open arms. He moved again in 1885, and opened his first store in London, England. He kept advancing on his brand's name, and in 1888, he unleashed the new “Damier Pattern” on the world, which is now considered to be the Louis Vuitton standard.

The bag's design is a checkerboard of dark and light brown boxes, which makes for a very unique and now classic look. Soon after the release of this bag, Vuitton crafted the Monogram Canvas in 1896, yet another icon in the Vuitton line.

The line of handbags was originally created in 12 classic styles. But over time, Vuitton decided to add to his classic canvas, and in 1924, he added the Keepall in three separate sizes, and the Noe handbag in 1932. Because of the high cost of his handbags, many replicators have begun a lucrative market.

The cost of making a genuine Vuitton handbag, both in time and expenses, has meant that the price qualifies it as a strict luxury item. Even in the early 1900s, Vuitton's bags were expensive to scale. With the replica industry, cheaper parts and labor produce lesser bags with the same name that sale for a fraction of the cost.

From the inception of Vuitton's first luggage line, to the newest edition of the handbag, the LV name is one of luxury and quality. The unmistakable craftsmanship and use of fine quality materials will forever set a Vuitton bag apart from any competitors. The history of this company isn't as storied as most. Their ups and downs haven't been as pronounced. The leather bags have always been big sellers, and Vuitton managed to keep his company operating well enough to be met with gentle hands after his passing.