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
An elegant choice for brunch, gallery tours, and evening cocktails, this vintage Louis Vuitton Alma BB in black Monogram Vernis leather with gold-tone hardware brings refined shine to any outfit. Carry by the rolled top handles for dressy events, or use the detachable shoulder strap for hands-free ease on city strolls.
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 typically fits inside the Alma BB in Monogram Vernis? A: Despite its compact profile, it holds daily essentials comfortably: a large smartphone, compact wallet or cardholder, keys, slim sunglasses in a soft case, wireless earbuds and a small cosmetics pouch. An A5 diary may fit depending on thickness; A4 documents do not lie flat. A 500 ml bottle generally won’t stand upright due to the curved zip opening. Please refer to the Measurements on this page (approx. 22 × 21 × 13 cm for this piece) or ask us for a tailored fit check.
Q: Can I wear it crossbody and is the strap adjustable? A: Yes. This bag includes a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap with an approximate drop of 52 cm for shoulder or high crossbody wear, plus dual rolled top handles (approx. 16 cm drop) for hand or crook‑of‑arm carry. If you’d like advice on where it will sit on your frame, tell us your height and we’ll guide you.
Q: How secure is the closure and what is the interior layout? A: The Alma BB features a double zip‑around closure for everyday security. Inside, there’s a fabric‑lined main compartment with one slip pocket to keep small items organised. The structured base has protective feet to help guard the leather when you set it down.
Q: What is Louis Vuitton’s Monogram Vernis leather? A: Monogram Vernis is embossed calfskin with a glossy, patent‑like coating that highlights the LV Monogram. It’s eye‑catching and relatively resistant to light surface scuffs, but it is sensitive to heat, strong sunlight and colour transfer. Handle with clean, dry hands and avoid contact with alcohol‑based products and solvents.
Q: Is Vernis prone to colour transfer or discolouration? A: Yes—especially in lighter shades. Dark denim and richly dyed fabrics can transfer pigment to the glossy surface, and prolonged light or heat can cause fading or yellowing over time. Preventive care works best: avoid rubbing against dark textiles, don’t leave the bag in hot cars or direct sun, and store it cool and dry. If transfer occurs, we recommend consulting a reputable luxury leather specialist; aggressive DIY cleaning can worsen the finish.
Q: Any care tips for keeping Vernis looking its best? A: Wipe gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth after use; keep away from oils, perfumes, sanitisers and alcohol wipes; avoid stickers and adhesive films on the surface; and rotate wear to minimise friction. For storage, keep the bag lightly stuffed, upright, in a breathable dust bag, with the strap and hardware padded to prevent impressions.
Q: Is the Alma BB in Vernis still produced? A: Vernis versions are released seasonally and availability varies by collection and colour. The pre‑loved market is the most reliable place to find specific hues and earlier releases like this vintage piece.
Q: Where are the brand markings and production identifiers located? A: You’ll find a “LOUIS VUITTON Paris” heat‑stamp and a country‑of‑origin mark inside (this piece is labelled Made in Italy). Older Alma BBs typically carry a date code on a small leather tab or along an interior seam; from around 2021 Louis Vuitton transitioned to an embedded microchip instead of a visible code. Placement and format vary by year—ask us for close‑ups of this exact bag if you wish.
Q: What accessories are included and how is authenticity guaranteed? A: Everything included is listed under “Accessories” for this item—this piece comes with an authenticity card. Every item at A Retro Tale undergoes rigorous multi‑point authentication by our in‑house experts, reviewing materials, stitching, hardware, stamps and (where applicable) date code/microchip and overall construction. We stand behind the authenticity of every piece we sell.
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
/ Alma Bags
943 £
49%
off retail price
• Black Monogram Vernis leather
• Gold-tone hardware
• Dual rolled top handles
• Detachable and adjustable shoulder strap
• Black fabric lining with one internal slip pocket
• Double zip-around closure
• 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.
