My Unfiltered Review of the Louis Vuitton Neverfull

Why the Louis Vuitton Neverfull Captured My Heart

The Louis Vuitton Neverfull is more than just a handbag; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Its distinct silhouette and iconic prints make it instantly recognizable, gracing the arms of fashion enthusiasts everywhere. I acquired my own Neverfull in March 2017, drawn to its reputation for spaciousness and versatility.

As a seasoned collector of Louis Vuitton handbags, I was specifically seeking a capacious tote for my travel adventures. The Neverfull GM quickly became my trusted companion for carry-on duties on flights to Florida and the Caribbean, effortlessly holding all my in-flight essentials. It also proved invaluable for numerous weekend getaways and busy day trips, offering ample space without compromising on style. This particular tote style truly shines as an ideal companion for a short escape.

During my travels on larger aircraft, I particularly appreciated the open-top design. While some might consider the lack of a zip closure a drawback, I found it convenient for quick access to items. When safely stowed under the seat in front of me, I never had to worry about contents spilling out. Its broad, open structure made retrieving my iPad, snacks, or a sweater a breeze, enhancing my overall travel experience.

If you’re contemplating adding this remarkable tote to your collection, eager to understand which size best suits your lifestyle, or curious about the nuances of purchasing new versus pre-owned, continue reading. This guide is designed to illuminate every facet of the Louis Vuitton Neverfull, helping you navigate your options with confidence.

Monogram, Damier, or Something More?

The Neverfull tote masterfully blends timeless design with an effortlessly chic, carry-all style. Its characteristic features include two slender shoulder straps and a spacious, easily accessible open-top design. While it doesn’t boast a traditional zipper closure, the top can be cinched inward with an interior clasp or clip located at the center, bringing the sides together for a more compact silhouette and a touch of added security.

When choosing your Neverfull, you’ll be presented with a range of iconic Louis Vuitton canvases and leathers. The most popular options include the legendary Monogram canvas, instantly recognizable with its interlocking LVs, fleurs, and quatrefoils. For those who prefer a more subdued yet equally iconic pattern, the Damier checker print comes in two beloved variations: the light and airy Azur (blue and white) and the rich, sophisticated Ebene (dark brown). Each Damier option offers a distinct aesthetic – Azur for a fresh, summery vibe, and Ebene for classic elegance that beautifully conceals wear.

Beyond these classic canvases, Louis Vuitton also offers the Neverfull in luxurious Empriente leather, known for its supple texture and embossed Monogram pattern, as well as a myriad of seasonal designs and limited editions that cater to diverse tastes. With such a vast selection, finding a Neverfull that perfectly reflects your personal style is an exciting part of the journey.

Navigating the Neverfull Sizes: PM, MM, & GM

One of the most frequent dilemmas for prospective Neverfull owners is deciding on the right size. Louis Vuitton offers three distinct options: PM (Petite Modèle, or small), MM (Moyenne Modèle, or medium), and GM (Grand Modèle, or large). This decision often sparks extensive discussions on designer purse forums, with many individuals, myself included, finding themselves pondering which size would best integrate into their daily lives.

My closest Louis Vuitton boutique is over two hours away, which meant a personal in-store comparison wasn’t readily feasible. This common challenge highlights the importance of thorough research and understanding the practical applications of each size before committing to a purchase.

My Tip: It’s easy to be swayed by a minimal price difference between sizes and opt for the largest one. However, resist this urge. If the size you choose is either too cumbersome or too small for your actual needs, it will likely end up neglected in your closet, diminishing its value to you. Prioritize functionality and comfort over perceived savings.

A Visual Guide: Neverfull Size Comparison Chart

To help visualize the differences, the helpful image below illustrates the three Neverfull sizes on a model. From left to right, you can see the PM (Petite Modèle), the MM (Moyenne Modèle) in the center, and the GM (Grand Modèle) on the right. This visual comparison provides an excellent reference for how each size appears when carried.

Here are the approximate dimensions for each Neverfull size:

• Neverfull PM: 11.4 x 8.7 x 5.1 inches (Length x Height x Width). This compact size is ideal for those who prefer to carry only their absolute essentials. It’s perfect for a quick errand, a chic evening out, or for individuals with a smaller frame who find larger totes overwhelming. It holds a wallet, phone, keys, and a few cosmetic items comfortably.
• Neverfull MM: 12.6 x 11.4 x 6.7 inches (Length x Height x Width). Often considered the “sweet spot” by many, the MM strikes a perfect balance between spaciousness and manageability. It’s an excellent everyday bag, capable of holding a small laptop or tablet, a water bottle, a book, and all your daily necessities. Its versatility makes it suitable for work, casual outings, and even light travel.
• Neverfull GM: 15.7 x 13.0 x 7.9 inches (Length x Height x Width). The largest of the three, the GM lives up to its “never full” moniker. This size is a true workhorse, perfect for travelers, moms who need a stylish diaper bag, or anyone who frequently carries a significant amount of items. It can easily accommodate a full-sized laptop, multiple books, a change of clothes, and more.

*All sizes are approximate and may vary slightly.

Real-World Packing: The Neverfull GM in Damier Ebene

To truly understand the impressive capacity of the Neverfull GM, I decided to conduct a real-world packing test. Preparing for our anniversary trip to the coast provided the perfect opportunity to demonstrate just how much this spacious tote can accommodate. For this demonstration, I used my GM in the elegant Damier Ebene canvas with its striking cerise (red) interior lining.

My goal was to pack everything I’d want readily accessible during a short trip – items that typically get buried in a larger suitcase or that I’d need frequently. Here’s a breakdown of what effortlessly fit into my Neverfull GM:

• My iPad and Kindle: Essential for entertainment and reading on the go.
• A lightweight jacket or sweater: Perfect for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.
• My vitamin case and daily medications: Always a necessity when traveling.
• An assortment of snacks: For those moments between meals or long stretches of travel.
• My smaller Louis Vuitton Favorite PM: This was tucked inside as a compact crossbody for quick outings once we arrived at our destination, eliminating the need to carry the larger tote.

What impressed me most was how easily these items fit, with room to spare. The GM truly swallowed everything I needed, proving its credentials as an exceptional travel companion. You can see the entire packing process and a visual tour of the filled bag in the video below, which I originally shared on my Instagram Stories. It vividly illustrates the bag’s expansive interior and how practical it is for a weekend trip.

Does the Neverfull Truly Live Up to Its Name?

The name “Neverfull” is indeed a clever marketing stroke, hinting at an endless capacity. In the case of the GM size, this moniker is largely accurate in terms of sheer volume. As demonstrated in the video above, the GM is incredibly spacious, capable of holding a vast array of items. However, such an expansive, open interior can quickly become a “bottomless pit” without proper organization.

This is where a good quality handbag organizer becomes indispensable. An organizer with multiple compartments, pockets, and a sturdy base helps maintain the bag’s shape, prevents items from getting lost at the bottom, and ensures everything remains easily visible and accessible. It transforms the vast void into a functional, well-structured space, making the Neverfull a joy to use rather than a frustrating treasure hunt.

My Tip: When selecting an organizer, opt for one made from soft materials like wool or felt. Avoid rigid or hard interior organizers, as these can exert pressure on the exterior corners of the bag, leading to premature rubbing, wear, and even damage to the canvas. I experienced this firsthand, and it’s a common issue that can be easily avoided.

While the internal capacity is immense, it’s crucial to acknowledge a potential drawback: the ease of overloading the bag. The Neverfull’s straps are renowned for their exceptional strength and durability, designed to withstand considerable weight. However, this doesn’t translate to comfort. A heavily loaded GM, while structurally sound, can cause the thin straps to dig uncomfortably into your shoulders, especially during prolonged wear. This issue is a significant point to consider, as detailed further in my pros and cons section below.

The Versatile Wristlet Pochette: A Charming Bonus

Adding to its allure, the Neverfull typically comes with a complementary wristlet pochette. This small pouch, often featuring the same canvas as the main tote, attaches securely to the interior with a clipped strap or “leash.” Its design allows for versatile use; the strap can be reconfigured for wrist carry, earning it the popular “wristlet” designation.

The strap ingeniously connects to a small D-ring located on the interior top-left corner of the Neverfull, keeping the pochette secure and easily accessible within the larger bag. The interior of the Neverfull, particularly the cerise (rouge) lining in my Damier GM, provides a beautiful contrast and makes finding items, including the attached pochette, a simple task.

If you’ve browsed pre-owned Neverfull listings online, you might have noticed that many bags are sold without their accompanying wristlet. There are a few key reasons for this common occurrence:

• Pre-2014 Models: Prior to 2014, the wristlet pochette was not included as a standard accessory with the Neverfull. Older models will therefore naturally lack this component.
• High Resale Value: The pochette itself is a highly desirable item with significant standalone value. Many owners choose to sell the wristlet separately to offset a portion of their initial Neverfull purchase cost, or simply to monetize an accessory they don’t frequently use.
• Underutilization: Some individuals simply don’t find a practical use for the pochette, especially if they prefer a traditional wallet or don’t need an extra mini-bag. In my own experience, when I stored mine deep inside the tote, I sometimes forgot about its potential utility.

Despite its small size, the pochette is surprisingly spacious. It can comfortably hold a phone, cards, cash, and a few small essentials, making it perfect for quick errands when you don’t want to carry your entire tote. Its easy conversion to a wristlet makes it an ideal grab-and-go option.

It can also serve as a temporary wallet. Many find that after investing in a luxury handbag, the desire for a matching wallet quickly follows, which can represent an additional several hundred dollars. The pochette provides an excellent interim solution, or even a permanent one, for organizing your monetary essentials.

My Tip: If you’re keen on acquiring a matching Louis Vuitton wallet but want to mitigate the cost, consider selling your Neverfull wristlet. As of January 2023, well-maintained wristlets can fetch prices as high as $615 on reputable resale platforms like Fashionphile, providing a substantial contribution towards a new wallet.

Investing in Luxury: What Does a Neverfull Cost?

The Louis Vuitton Neverfull, like many coveted luxury items, is subject to regular price increases by the brand. This strategy is part of maintaining its exclusivity and desirability, and given its immense popularity, it’s a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. Understanding these price fluctuations is crucial for any potential buyer.

To provide some perspective, let’s look at the Neverfull’s pricing trajectory:

• When I purchased my Neverfull GM in March 2017, the retail price was $1,340 USD.
• By July 2021, the price had risen to $1,620 USD.
• As of January 2023, the cost had climbed significantly to $2,100 USD.

This represents a staggering increase of $760, or over 56%, in less than six years. This consistent appreciation in value underscores why some view luxury handbags not just as accessories, but as potential investments. This brings us naturally to the next important topic: whether to buy your Neverfull new or explore the pre-owned market.

New vs. Pre-Owned: Making the Smart Neverfull Purchase

The decision to buy a luxury item like the Louis Vuitton Neverfull new from a boutique or pre-owned from the secondary market involves weighing various factors. Each option presents distinct advantages and considerations, from cost savings to peace of mind. I’ve personally experienced the pre-owned route twice, and both times have been exceptionally positive, yielding exactly what I anticipated.

Purchasing a new Neverfull guarantees a pristine item, the full luxury retail experience, and the direct support and warranty from Louis Vuitton. You’ll be the first owner, and the bag will arrive in immaculate condition, often with all original packaging, tags, and a valid retail receipt. This offers a certain peace of mind that many find invaluable.

However, given the escalating prices, the pre-owned market has become an increasingly attractive and intelligent alternative. It offers significant cost savings, access to discontinued styles or specific canvas/lining combinations no longer available new, and promotes a more sustainable approach to luxury consumption. The key to success in the pre-owned market lies in vigilance and informed decision-making.

My First Pre-Owned Louis Vuitton: The Turenne MM

My initial foray into the pre-owned luxury world was with the Turenne MM. I found this beautiful bag on eBay from a highly-rated, trusted seller. Before finalizing my purchase, I took the crucial step of having the listing images authenticated by an independent, third-party source. This small investment provided immense reassurance.

The Turenne was approximately three years old but presented in very good condition, exceeding my expectations. I managed to save around $300 compared to the retail price, a significant saving for a bag that looked almost new. It even came complete with its original dust bag and a gift receipt, which would later prove invaluable.

About a year into owning the Turenne, I noticed that the stitching on one of the side leather tabs had begun to loosen slightly. Armed with the original gift receipt, I took the bag to a Louis Vuitton boutique. Despite the bag being about four years old at that point, the fact that I had the receipt and it was a known manufacturing issue meant Louis Vuitton graciously waived the repair fee. This experience underscored the unexpected benefits of purchasing pre-owned from a careful owner who retains documentation.

A Second Chance: My Experience with the Girolata

My second pre-owned purchase, the Girolata, came in 2018. At the time, the Girolata was a highly sought-after style that was unavailable for direct purchase online from Louis Vuitton. This rarity pushed me towards the secondary market, specifically a reputable, trusted seller within a private Facebook group dedicated to luxury enthusiasts.

Once again, I prioritized authentication, ensuring the bag’s legitimacy before proceeding. I acquired a Girolata in “like-new” condition, and crucially, it also included its original gift receipt. This receipt, as it turned out, would become instrumental in my ownership journey.

I cherished my Girolata, using it extensively as my go-to spring and summer handbag throughout 2018 and 2019. However, in 2020, as I retrieved it from its dust bag, I noticed a distinct pink tint appearing on a section of the exterior coated canvas. This was a concerning development for a luxury item.

After some research, I discovered that this was a known manufacturing defect where the pink interior lining was bleeding through the coated canvas. My next course of action was to visit louisvuitton.com. In 2021, after submitting clear photos of the defect and providing the original gift receipt, Louis Vuitton promptly offered me full store credit. This allowed me to choose a new bag, and in October 2021, I happily applied that credit towards a brand new Propriano. This experience solidified my belief in the value of retaining receipts, even for pre-owned luxury purchases.

Navigating Defects and Repairs with Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton generally has an excellent reputation for addressing manufacturing defects and offering repair services. If your designer item is determined to have a “defect” stemming from manufacturing, their typical policy is to either repair the item, replace it, or issue store credit. However, it’s crucial to understand that each situation is evaluated individually, and this isn’t an absolute guarantee.

My Tip: If you suspect any issue with your Louis Vuitton item, particularly a potential defect, initiate the process by submitting a repair ticket through their official online repair portal. In my experience with the Girolata, I had mentioned the pink canvas issue to two different sales associates in 2020, but neither suggested it might be a defect. The online process was far more effective in getting a resolution.

The specific resolution you receive—a brand-new replacement versus store credit—often depends on the item’s current availability. If the item has been discontinued, as was the case with my Girolata, it’s highly probable that you will be offered store credit. If the item is still part of their current collection, they will typically opt for repair or direct replacement. This policy demonstrates Louis Vuitton’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, even years after the initial purchase, especially when a genuine manufacturing flaw is identified.

The Power of the Receipt: Why It Matters

When considering a pre-owned luxury purchase, I’m always a little wary when a seller claims they don’t have the original receipt, especially for an item that is only a few years old. While not an absolute deal-breaker, it does raise a red flag. Here’s why retaining a Louis Vuitton receipt is so important and why it’s generally accessible:

• For Insurance Purposes: Most individuals who invest thousands of dollars in a luxury handbag will conscientiously keep the receipt in a safe place for insurance purposes, providing proof of purchase and value in case of loss or damage.
• Online Purchase Access: If you’ve purchased a new item directly from the Louis Vuitton website, you can easily access your purchase history and print out a new copy of your receipt at any time through your online account.
• Customer Service Retrieval: Even if purchased in-store, it is possible to obtain a list of your purchases by contacting Louis Vuitton customer service. While it involves a verification process to prove your identity, they do have records and can assist you.
• Email Receipts: When you make a purchase in-store, Louis Vuitton commonly offers to email you a digital copy of your receipt, providing an easily retrievable record.

Therefore, while a receipt doesn’t guarantee authenticity (as receipts can be faked or reused), its absence, particularly for relatively recent items, should prompt further questions. A genuine receipt, especially for newer bags, significantly enhances the credibility of a pre-owned listing and can be invaluable for repair or defect claims, as I personally experienced.

Essential Tips for Buying Pre-Owned Luxury Handbags

Venturing into the pre-owned luxury market can be incredibly rewarding, offering access to beautiful pieces at a more accessible price point. However, it’s also a landscape fraught with potential pitfalls. To ensure a safe and satisfying purchase, adhering to certain best practices is paramount. Here are my essential tips and suggestions, drawn from personal experience:

• Authenticity is Non-Negotiable: A receipt, while helpful for proof of purchase and warranty claims, does not in any way guarantee authenticity. Receipts can be meticulously faked or reused for counterfeit items. It is imperative to always get a used luxury item professionally authenticated, even if you know and trust the seller. The cost for such a service is typically very low, and the peace of mind it provides is priceless. Consult the Frequently Asked Questions section below for recommendations on reputable authenticators. Be aware that Louis Vuitton boutiques will not authenticate items for you.
• Leverage Buyer Protection: When purchasing a used luxury or designer item online, always use a credit card and a payment service that offers robust buyer protection, such as PayPal’s Goods & Services option. This protection can be crucial if the item turns out to be not as described or a counterfeit. Crucially, never use PayPal’s “Friends & Family” option to pay for luxury goods or any expensive purchases, as this method offers no buyer protection whatsoever.
• Exercise Caution with Private Sellers: Buying expensive goods online directly from private sellers can carry a higher risk than purchasing from established consignment stores or platforms. While you might find better deals, the onus is entirely on you to vet the seller and the item. Carefully assess if the potential reward of a lower price justifies the inherent risk.
• Insist on “Signature Required” Delivery: Always request that the seller ships the item with a “signature required” delivery option. This ensures that the package is handed directly to you or an authorized individual, significantly reducing the risk of theft or misdelivery. Furthermore, if possible, open the package in front of a neutral third party (e.g., the delivery driver, a friend, or security personnel). Last year, I had an expensive item stolen directly out of the box during transit; thankfully, the delivery driver noticed the box felt suspiciously empty, and I was able to refuse delivery, leading to a successful resolution.
• Thoroughly Inspect Upon Arrival: Once your item arrives, immediately inspect it against the seller’s description and photos. Look for any discrepancies in condition, material, smell, and functionality. If anything seems amiss, document it thoroughly with photos and videos, and promptly contact the seller or payment service.

My Tip: Be incredibly smart and diligent when buying used luxury goods. Conduct extensive research on both the item and the seller. Always request proof that the seller genuinely has the item in their possession (e.g., unique photos with a timestamp or specific background). Better yet, prioritize purchasing from established companies that explicitly guarantee authenticity and offer clear return policies. Regardless of the source, always, always get your item independently authenticated.

(These are my personal tips and suggestions, shared from my own experiences, and should not be confused with professional financial or legal advice).

My Honest Pros and Cons of the Louis Vuitton Neverfull

While the Louis Vuitton Neverfull is undeniably popular, my personal experience led me to eventually sell my GM in September 2019. Despite using it frequently during my first year of ownership, it began to spend more time tucked away in my closet. This decision stemmed from a combination of factors related to its practicality for my specific lifestyle. Let’s delve into what I loved about the bag and where it fell short for me.

One primary reason for its eventual sale was the sheer size of the GM. Although the exterior straps allow you to cinch in the top sides for a more compact look, the bottom of the bag remains exceptionally wide. This generous width, while great for capacity, also made it prone to scuffing the exterior corners, an issue I experienced even with relatively limited use (approximately ten times).

Another challenge I faced was the issue of overloading, particularly when traveling. If I included heavier items like my MacBook, the thin shoulder straps would become uncomfortably painful, digging into my shoulders. While solutions like strap covers (often found on Etsy) exist to enhance comfort, I realized that if I truly loved the bag for everyday use, I would have invested in them. The fact that I didn’t spoke volumes about its fit for my needs.

Ultimately, while the Neverfull is a beautiful and iconic bag, the GM size wasn’t as practical for me as I initially hoped. I often reflect that perhaps if I had opted for the MM size instead of the GM, my ownership experience might have been different, and I might have kept it. This highlights the importance of truly assessing your needs against the bag’s dimensions. In 2019, I eventually replaced it with the Zippered Flower Tote in MM (Monogram canvas with noir black trim), which offered the structure, zippered closure, and comfort I sought for carrying my MacBook and other essentials. Its soft suede interior also provided excellent protection for my electronics.

The Neverfull’s Strengths: A Closer Look

Despite my personal decision to part with it, the Louis Vuitton Neverfull boasts numerous compelling advantages that contribute to its widespread appeal:

• Iconic & Instantly Recognizable: It’s a true fashion icon, immediately identifying you as a connoisseur of luxury. This makes it a statement piece that never goes out of style.
• Exceptional Capacity: True to its name, it’s perfect for carrying a large volume of lightweight items, from groceries to gym clothes, making it incredibly versatile for various activities.
• Adjustable Silhouette: The ability to cinch in the side straps transforms the bag’s shape, offering two distinct looks – a classic trapezoid tote or a more compact, bucket-style bag, adapting to your aesthetic preference or storage needs.
• Valuable Bonus Pochette: The included wristlet pochette is a significant asset. It’s not just a convenient organizer; its versatility allows it to function as a standalone clutch, a wallet, or a small travel pouch, and it retains considerable resale value on its own.
• Ideal “Mom Bag”: Its spacious interior, durable canvas, and easy-to-clean lining make it an excellent choice for a stylish diaper bag or a carry-all for family outings, without explicitly looking like a traditional baby bag.
• MM Size – The All-Rounder: The MM (Medium) size is frequently hailed as the most practical and versatile option, striking an optimal balance for daily use, work, and light travel. It truly is the perfect all-around tote for most individuals.
• Damier Ebene – Worry-Free Elegance: The Damier Ebene canvas with its brown leather trim is a fantastic choice for those seeking a low-maintenance luxury bag. Its dark pattern and non-vachetta leather mean it’s highly resistant to water spots, darkening, and visible wear, offering an effortlessly chic and durable option.

Where the Neverfull Falls Short

No bag is without its drawbacks, and the Neverfull, despite its popularity, has a few points to consider before purchasing:

• Ubiquity: Its immense popularity means you’ll see it everywhere. While a testament to its appeal, some might find its ubiquity reduces its sense of exclusivity compared to less common luxury designs.
• Organizational Challenge: Without an internal organizer, the Neverfull, particularly the GM, can quickly become a “bottomless pit.” Items tend to get lost at the bottom, making retrieval cumbersome and frustrating.
• Lack of Structure & Thin Canvas: The bag’s soft, unstructured design means it lacks rigidity, causing it to slouch when not full. The coated canvas, while durable, is relatively thin. I’ve seen numerous photos and reports of the canvas tearing or the straps ripping where they meet the bag, especially with heavy loads or rough handling.
• Price for Material: For many, spending over $2,000 (and continually rising) for a coated canvas tote with minimal leather accents feels disproportionately expensive. Critics argue that the price point is high for materials that are not full leather, prompting questions about its true value proposition.
• Vachetta Leather Concerns: The Monogram and Damier Azur versions feature vachetta leather trim. This untreated natural leather darkens over time with exposure to light, oils, and general wear, developing a unique patina. While beloved by some, it is also highly susceptible to water spots and stains if left unprotected, requiring careful maintenance.

My Enduring Love Affair with Louis Vuitton

My passion for handbags is undeniable, a journey I’ve chronicled extensively in my personal reflections on the love of purses. Among all the esteemed designers, my “Louies” hold a particularly special place in my heart. While I’ve occasionally explored other luxury brands like Gucci, I invariably find myself returning to Louis Vuitton, captivated by a new style or a classic piece that ignites my passion anew.

My current handbag collection is a testament to this enduring affection, comprising a diverse range of styles that cater to every occasion and need. It includes the timeless bag that ignited my initial obsession – the Portobello PM. I also cherish the versatile Speedy Bandouliere 30, the elegant Favorite MM, the practical Zippered Flower Tote in MM (my Neverfull replacement), the sophisticated Propriano, the chic Maida Hobo, and my most recent acquisition, the charming Toiletry Pouch on Chain. Beyond these larger pieces, my collection is complemented by an array of small leather goods (SLGs), including several wallets, key pouches, and various handbag straps or bandoulières.

Don’t miss out! Read my detailed new review on the versatile Louis Vuitton key pouch, a must-have SLG!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Louis Vuitton Neverfull

This post is not sponsored, though it contains affiliate links. The views expressed herein are my personal opinion. Any services or products recommended are based solely on my own experiences. However, your individual experience might vary from mine. Recommendations are based on what I consider to be best practices but are not an endorsement or guarantee of specific results or outcomes.