Recyclist House: How the Louis Vuitton Speedy Bag Became a Must-Have in Men’s Fashion

In the late 2000s, the Louis Vuitton Speedy was an icon, gracing the arms of stars like Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie, and Miley Cyrus. Back then, the monogrammed handbag was synonymous with celebrity style. Yet, like many “It bags,” it eventually became a relic of the Y2K era, associated with the flashy aesthetics of the time. Today, however, the Speedy is enjoying a well-deserved comeback—this time, embraced by a new wave of stylish men.

Pharrell Williams, Louis Vuitton’s creative director, is largely responsible for the bag’s resurgence. Over the past few seasons, Williams has reimagined the Speedy on the runway, introducing it in vibrant colorways, from springy yellows to deep greens, while maintaining the classic LV monogram. This update has attracted a host of high-profile fans, including actor Jacob Elordi and NBA legend LeBron James. Williams himself is rarely seen without one, often using the bag to complete his signature looks.

Compared to its initial rise to fame, there’s a unique appeal in seeing the Speedy on the arms of well-dressed men today. Men carrying purses has become a growing trend, but it’s the combination of this once-flashy accessory with understated menswear pieces that feels new. Pairing the bold monogram with items like Elordi’s perfectly tailored jeans or James’s graphic bomber jacket creates a sense of effortless cool, far from the attention-seeking energy of the early 2000s.

Of course, Williams himself is a standout example of how to style the Speedy. Recently, he sported a smaller version of the bag with a colorful leather coat and flared jeans—a blend of 2000s and 1970s elements that felt entirely modern. With such inspiring looks, the Speedy is set to be a top accessory choice for the season, effortlessly blending past and present style.