Louis Vuitton Side Trunk Reference Guide
Remember when Louis Vuitton dropped the Side Trunk and suddenly it was everywhere? Like, you couldn’t scroll through Instagram without seeing it on some influencer’s arm. It was one of those had to have it moments — the kind that usually burns bright and fades fast (you know how short the lifespan of an It-bag can be). But here’s the twist: the Side Trunk didn’t just disappear after its viral moment. Instead, it pulled a total power move and cemented itself as a true Louis Vuitton icon. Is it because of its undeniable reference to the Maison’s heritage trunks? Or the Side Trunk simply won everyone over? Let’s discuss while we take a closer look at the design.
Louis Vuitton Side Trunk History & Design
Paying homage to Louis Vuitton’s iconic heritage as the trunk-maker, the sophisticated Side Trunk was first spotted on the brand’s Cruise 2023 runway. Nicolas Ghesquière took inspiration from the Petite Malle—the bag he himself designed for Louis Vuitton back in 2013. But this time, he took a slightly different approach. Basically, instead of opting for the traditional, box-like silhouette, he chose to soften the shape of the bag, creating a more modern, up-to-date appearance.
But don’t you worry—the trunk DNA is still very much there. In fact, on the Louis Vuitton Side Trunk, you’ll spot the reinforced metal corners, the signature S-lock clasp, and that structured feel we all associate with Louis Vuitton’s travel legacy. But what makes the Side Trunk even more special? It’s oh, so wearable, thanks to its removable top handle and adjustable crossbody strap.
Sure, the Petite Malle also had one. But because of its rigid, rectangular silhouette, the space inside of the bag is quite limited. The Side Trunk, on the other hand, gives you the best of both worlds: the vintage trunk aesthetic and the ability to actually carry your stuff.
Louis Vuitton Side Trunk Sizes & Materials
Louis Vuitton originally released the Side Trunk in the PM size, which measures 8.3” in length and 5.5” in height. Later on, however, the brand also added a smaller Pico size, as well as bigger MM and GM sizes, which give you that “a trunk meets practical shoulder bag” vibe. Most recently, in 2024, the brand has also released the new Louis Vuitton Side Trunk East-West, which is an E/W iteration of the handbag. Find the detailed dimensions of all the available Louis Vuitton Side Trunk sizes below.
| Louis Vuitton Side Trunk Sizes | Dimensions (cm) | Dimensions (inches) |
| Pico Side Trunk | 14 x 10 x 6.5 cm | 5.5 x 3.9 x 2.6 inches |
| Side Trunk PM | 19 x 12.5 x 7.5 cm | 7.5 x 4.9 x 3 inches |
| Side Trunk MM | 23.5 x 16 x 8.5 cm | 9.3 x 6.3 x 3.3 inches |
| Side Trunk MM East West | 28 x 15 x 7.1 cm | 11 x 5.9 x 2.8 inches |
| Side Trunk GM | 30 x 20 x 10 cm | 11.8 x 7.9 x 3.9 inches |
Now to the materials—because Louis Vuitton understood the assignment, first releasing the Side Trunk in classic Monogram Canvas and Monogram-debossed Calfskin leather, and then adding more variations in both heritage and modern materials. And yes—for collectors and those with a taste for the extravagant—Louis Vuitton has also released the Side Trunk in exotic skins like ostrich.
Prices
The Louis Vuitton Side Trunk starts at $3,700 for the PM size in classic Monogram Canvas, while the slightly larger MM version comes in at $3,950. If you’re eyeing one of the leather options, expect prices to start at about $4,350—a little higher, but totally worth it if you’re looking for that smooth, supple finish.
But here’s where things truly get interesting: the Petite Malle, the bag that inspired the Side Trunk, starts at a hefty $6,400. Is it iconic? Absolutely? Practical? Not so much. For almost half the price, the Side Trunk gives you the same trunk-inspired aesthetic, more interior space, and the kind of versatility you can actually use every day. But don’t get me wrong, I still love the Petite Malle. In fact, it may just be the perfect special occasion bag from Louis Vuitton.
