Louis Vuitton Capucines BB vs. PM: Which size is right for you?

Discover the perfect Louis Vuitton Capucines size for you - BB for chic essentials or PM for versatile daily use. Find your stylish companion today.
Spencer Lanoue
Written by: 
Spencer Lanoue
Last updated: 

The Louis Vuitton Capucines BB is a compact, elegant bag designed for essentials, while the larger Capucines PM offers significantly more space for daily use. The BB excels as a sophisticated evening or brunch companion, whereas the PM is a versatile workhorse built for the office, travel, or busy daytime schedules.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Louis Vuitton Capucines size for your lifestyle.

Louis Vuitton Capucines BB

The Capucines BB is the smaller, daintier model in the Capucines lineup, designed for those who value elegance and portability over capacity. Its polished and structured silhouette makes it a perfect accessory for formal events, dinners, or occasions when you only need to carry your absolute essentials: a phone, cardholder, keys, and lipstick.

  • What it is: A compact, structured luxury top-handle bag with a detachable shoulder strap for versatile wear.
  • Key features: Measures approximately 9.8" L x 6.7" H x 3.1" W. Features Taurillon leather, the signature LV twist-lock closure, a single main compartment with a small slip pocket, and a removable strap.
  • Price: Typically ranges from $5,000 to $6,000 USD.
  • Materials/Construction: Crafted from high-end Taurillon leather or exotic skins, with flawless stitching and hardware that exemplify Louis Vuitton's attention to detail.
  • Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry. Elegant, understated silhouette perfect for formal occasions. Transitions easily from a top-handle to a crossbody bag. Holds its shape beautifully.
  • Cons: Very limited capacity. Cannot fit larger essentials like a full-size wallet or sunglasses case. Prized more for its form than its function.

This is the ideal choice for someone who wants a chic, minimal luxury piece for special outings or light daily use.

Shop this product: louisvuitton.com/products/capucines-bb-

Louis Vuitton Capucines PM

The Capucines PM is the medium "Petit Modele" size that combines the line's signature elegance with everyday functionality. Big enough to serve as a daily work bag but still refined enough for sophisticated events, the PM provides ample room for essentials and more, making it a highly versatile investment piece for the discerning luxury buyer.

  • What it is: A larger, more functional version of the Capucines bag designed for daily wear, work, and travel.
  • Key features: Measures approximately 13" L x 9" H x 5" W. Also crafted from Taurillon leather with the LV twist-lock, it features a more spacious interior with multiple compartments for better organization.
  • Price: Typically priced between $6,500 and $8,000 USD.
  • Materials/Construction: Made with the same impeccable quality and luxurious Taurillon leather as its smaller counterpart, ensuring durability and timeless appeal.
  • Pros: Spacious enough for daily essentials, including a small tablet or e-reader. Excellent interior organization. Versatile for both professional and casual settings. Makes a sophisticated statement.
  • Cons: Can be noticeably heavier, especially when full. Its larger size may feel too substantial for evening wear. Higher price point.

It's the perfect selection for professionals or anyone needing a stylish, spacious bag that seamlessly fits into their daily routine.

Shop this product: louisvuitton.com/products/capucines-pm-

Capucines BB vs. PM Comparison

Size & Capacity

The most important difference is size. The Capucines BB measures 9.8" x 6.7" x 3.1", making it large enough for a smartphone, a cardholder, keys, and a lipstick. It is strictly for essentials and will not accommodate larger items like a full wallet, sunglasses case, or water bottle.

In contrast, the Capucines PM, at 13" x 9" x 5", is significantly bigger. Its organized interior can comfortably hold a wallet, makeup pouch, sunglasses, an iPad or small tablet, and other daily necessities. This added capacity makes the PM a practical choice for a work bag or an everyday carryall.

Design & Versatility

Both bags share the same elegant design, but their size dictates their versatility. The BB's petite frame reads as more formal and delicate, making it a natural choice for evening events, weddings, or dinners where a large bag would be cumbersome. It's a chic accessory that adds a touch of sophistication to an outfit.

The PM's more substantial presence lends itself to daytime and professional environments. It looks right at home in a business meeting, at a professional lunch, or during a day of shopping. While it can be styled for an evening out, its primary strength is as a high-functioning day bag that doesn't compromise on style.

Comfort & Usability

Weighing around 1.8 pounds, the Capucines BB is lightweight and effortless to carry by its top handle or its detachable strap. Its compact size means it never feels bulky, even when worn crossbody.

The Capucines PM weighs about 2.5 pounds when empty and can become quite heavy once filled. While the top handle is sturdy and comfortable to hold, carrying a fully loaded PM on your shoulder or in the crook of your arm for extended periods is a more significant commitment. Its usability is tied to its capacity - it does more, but you will feel the added weight.

Price & Value

There is a noticeable price difference, with the BB starting around $5,000 and the PM starting closer to $6,500. The best value depends entirely on your needs. For someone seeking a special occasion luxury piece, the BB offers entry into the coveted Capucines line at a lower price point.

For those needing a bag they can use frequently for work or daily tasks, the PM provides better functional value. Its versatility and capacity justify the higher price, as it can serve multiple roles in a wardrobe that the smaller BB cannot.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both models offer timeless style and impeccable quality, but they cater to very different needs.

Choose the Capucines BB if:

  • You need an elegant bag for evenings, events, or formal occasions.
  • You are a minimalist who only carries a few essentials daily.
  • You prefer lightweight, easy-to-carry bags.
  • You are looking for an accessory to complement an outfit rather than a functional carryall.

Choose the Capucines PM if:

  • You need a sophisticated bag for work that can fit a small tablet and other necessities.
  • You want a versatile, high-capacity luxury bag for daily use.
  • You prefer having more organizational options inside your bag.
  • You don't mind a heavier bag in exchange for more functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Capucines BB and PM?

The main difference is size and capacity. The Capucines BB is a mini bag designed for essentials, while the PM is a medium-sized daily handbag with a much larger, more organized interior.

Can you fit a phone in the Capucines BB?

Yes, all standard and "Max" sized smartphones fit comfortably inside the Capucines BB, along with a cardholder, keys, and lipstick.

Is the Capucines PM big enough for a laptop?

No, the Capucines PM is not large enough to hold a standard-sized laptop. It can, however, accommodate a small tablet like an iPad Mini or a standard Kindle.

Which size is more popular?

Popularity often follows fashion trends. The PM has long been a classic choice for a daily luxury bag. However, with the rise of the mini bag trend, the BB has become extremely popular for its chic, compact style.

Is the shoulder strap on the Capucines removable?

Yes, both the BB and PM models come with a removable shoulder strap, allowing you to wear them as a top-handle, shoulder, or crossbody bag.

Are the Louis Vuitton Capucines bags worth the price?

The worth of a Capucines bag comes from its exceptional craftsmanship, timeless design, durable Taurillon leather, and the status of the Louis Vuitton brand. It's a luxury investment piece designed to last for years.

Is the Capucines PM heavy to carry?

Empty, the PM weighs around 2.5 pounds. Once filled with daily essentials, its weight becomes noticeable. While designed for comfort, it is a substantial bag and will feel heavier than smaller options.

Do the Capucines bags hold their shape?

Yes, the Capucines collection is known for its structured silhouette. Both models are crafted to hold their shape exceptionally well over time, especially with proper care and storage.