We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence | About us
Designed for city days and dinner dates alike, this vintage Louis Vuitton Damier Papillon 30 lends polished elegance to any ensemble. Carry it for weekend shopping, a smart lunch, or an evening out—the timeless Damier Ebene finish transitions effortlessly from day to night.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What are the measurements and structure of the Papillon 30? A: The Papillon 30 is a cylindrical handbag measuring approximately 30 × 15 × 15 cm with a single main compartment and a top zip. Please refer to the Measurements on this page for the exact dimensions of this piece.
Q: What typically fits inside the Papillon 30? A: It comfortably holds a large smartphone, a long wallet, keys, a sunglasses case, a small cosmetics pouch, and small extras. Many owners also fit a 500 ml water bottle or a compact umbrella thanks to the 30 cm length. Using small pouches helps keep items organised inside the round interior.
Q: Can it be worn on the shoulder? A: Yes, the dual flat handles have an approximate drop of 16 cm, allowing shoulder carry for many users. It can feel snug over bulky layers, so it’s also commonly carried by hand or in the crook of the arm.
Q: Is the classic Papillon 30 still in production? A: The classic Papillon line was discontinued around 2009. Louis Vuitton later introduced modern re-interpretations (such as the Papillon Messenger) in subsequent collections. This item is a vintage Papillon 30.
Q: Does this piece come with a matching pouch and is it detachable? A: Yes. As listed in the product information, this item includes a pouch. On Papillon 30 sets, the mini cylindrical pouch is detachable and can be clipped on or used separately.
Q: What is the model code for the Damier Ebene Papillon 30? A: The Damier Ebene Papillon 30 is commonly referenced under model code N51303. Note that model codes are reference numbers and are different from the production date code stamped on the bag.
Q: Where can I find the date code and what does it mean? A: Louis Vuitton bags do not have serial numbers; instead, they carry date codes that indicate where and when the item was made. On Papillon models the code is typically stamped on a small leather tab along an interior seam; location can vary by year and the code may fade with age. Our team authenticates every item before listing.
Q: How should I care for Damier Ebene canvas and the leather trim? A: Wipe the canvas gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry immediately. Keep the bag away from prolonged sunlight, moisture, and heat sources. Store it lightly stuffed in its dust bag in a ventilated space, and avoid overfilling to help the cylindrical shape keep its structure. Treat leather trim with appropriate leather care, not harsh chemicals.
Q: Any tips for day-to-day use with the barrel shape? A: Because of the rounded base, contents can shift. Using small pouches or an organiser keeps items in place and helps minimise sagging; distributing weight evenly and avoiding overloading will help the bag retain its shape over time.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Louis Vuitton
/ Bags
/ Handbags
757 £
• Damier Ebene canvas with brown leather trim
• Brass hardware
• Dual flat top handles
• Terracotta cross-grain leather lining
• Top zip closure
• Comes with a matching mini pochette
• Vintage
The authenticity of this bag has been checked and verified by our experts who have over 10 years of experience in vintage and luxury bags. We also use a well established 3rd party authentication tool to verify our bags.
