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
Ideal for cocktail parties and chic city evenings, the Louis Vuitton Vernis Alma BB in glossy red adds a polished pop of colour to date nights, weddings or festive dinners. Compact and elegant, it seamlessly elevates looks from daytime plans to after-dark events.
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 how does the Alma BB wear? A: Approx. 24 × 17 × 11 cm with a 10 cm handle drop and an approx. 55 cm detachable strap drop. It can be carried handheld by the rolled top handles or worn on the shoulder/crossbody with the strap.
Q: What typically fits inside this Alma BB? A: Daily essentials such as a large smartphone, compact wallet/cardholder, keys, a few cosmetics, and sunglasses in a soft pouch. It is compact and structured, so packing slim items works best.
Q: Is the shoulder strap adjustable? A: On Vernis Alma BB bags from this era the strap is typically non‑adjustable and designed for shoulder or crossbody wear, with an approximate 55 cm drop. Many owners wear it crossbody comfortably; petite users sometimes prefer a replacement or add-on strap for a shorter drop.
Q: Will an iPad mini or A5 notebook fit? A: Generally no. Most owners find an iPad mini/A5 notebook does not comfortably pass the curved zip opening or sit well inside this structured BB size. Smaller tablets may squeeze in diagonally if very slim and uncased, but it isn’t recommended for regular use.
Q: How should I care for Vernis leather? A: Keep Vernis away from dark or printed textiles that can transfer colour (e.g., denim, magazines, other leathers). Avoid prolonged sunlight and heat which can fade or alter the tone. Wipe gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth, dry immediately, and store stuffed in a breathable dust bag in a cool, ventilated place. Avoid alcohol-based products (hand sanitiser, perfumes) on the leather.
Q: Does Vernis leather discolour or become sticky over time? A: Light Vernis shades can develop a yellowish cast and all colours may fade with UV exposure. Humidity and heat can also cause tackiness on some older coated leathers. Good storage (cool, ventilated, away from direct light) and occasional gentle wipe-downs help minimise these risks.
Q: Is Vernis leather rain-safe? A: The patent-like coating offers some surface resistance, but the bag is not waterproof. If it gets wet, blot gently with a clean, light-coloured cloth and allow it to air dry away from heat sources. Do not use harsh cleaners.
Q: What does the date code CA0124 mean? A: It decodes to early 2014 production (week 02 of 2014). The letters indicate a Louis Vuitton workshop code within the brand’s network. Note that since 2021 many new LV items use embedded microchips rather than printed date codes, and date codes alone should not be used to authenticate a bag.
Q: What accessories are included with this item? A: This piece comes with a detachable shoulder strap, padlock, keys, and clochette. Anything else (such as a dust bag or box) would be listed under Accessories if included.
Q: How do you authenticate this bag? A: Every item at A Retro Tale undergoes multi‑point authentication by our in‑house experts, who examine materials, stamping, stitching, hardware, date code/age markers, and overall construction. We stand behind the authenticity of all items we sell and can share additional details or photos on request.
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
• Red monogram embossed Vernis leather
• Gold-tone hardware
• Dual rolled top handles
• Detachable shoulder strap
• Red fabric lining with one internal slip pocket
• Zip-around closure
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.