Louis Vuitton Saumur 30 vs. 35: Which size is right for you?

The Louis Vuitton Saumur 30 and Saumur 35 primarily differ in size and capacity. The Saumur 30 is a compact, lightweight bag measuring 30 cm wide, perfect for daily essentials, while the larger Saumur 35 offers more space at 35 cm wide, accommodating extras like a tablet or small notebook for travel and busier days.

Here’s everything you need to know to decide which of these classic, saddle-inspired bags is the right fit for your wardrobe and lifestyle.

Louis Vuitton Saumur 30

The Saumur 30 is the smaller of the two sizes, designed for those who appreciate a more compact and streamlined accessory for everyday use. Its design offers a chic, unobtrusive profile that is both functional and elegant, easily carrying your essential items without adding bulk.

• What it is: A structured, saddle-style crossbody bag with two distinct compartments buckled together.
• Key features: Approximately 30 cm (W) x 20 cm (H) x 15 cm (D), adjustable long leather strap for shoulder or crossbody wear, dual-sided design with buckle closures.
• Price: Typically around $2,200 to $2,500 (pre-owned market, as this model has been discontinued).
• Materials/Construction: Often found in Monogram or Damier Ebene canvas with natural cowhide leather trim, offering excellent durability for daily wear.
• Sizing/Fit: Sits comfortably at the hip when worn crossbody and is lightweight, feeling less cumbersome than its larger counterpart for all-day wear.
• Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry for extended periods. The compact size looks proportional on most body types, particularly petite frames. Offers enough space for daily necessities without temptation to overpack.
• Cons: Limited capacity - cannot fit larger items like a standard tablet or notebook. Can feel too small for those who need to carry more than just the basics.

This bag suits the minimalist who values a polished, grab-and-go accessory for running errands, work, or casual social outings.

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Louis Vuitton Saumur 35

The Saumur 35 is the more substantial option, providing increased capacity for those who need extra space or prefer a larger statement bag. It maintains the same classic saddle silhouette as the 30 but offers the versatility needed for work, travel, or days that require carrying more than just the essentials.

• What it is: The larger version of the iconic Saumur crossbody bag, featuring the signature dual-compartment structure.
• Key features: Approximately 35 cm (W) x 22 cm (H) x 16 cm (D), adjustable strap, spacious dual-sided interior for greater organization and storage.
• Price: Generally ranges from $2,500 to $2,800 on the pre-owned market.
• Materials/Construction: Commonly available in durable coated canvas (Monogram, Damier) with vegetable-tanned leather trim that develops a unique patina over time.
• Sizing/Fit: Has a more significant presence when worn, especially on smaller frames. The increased size means it can feel heavier when fully packed.
• Pros: Generous capacity holds a tablet, small notebook, sunglasses case, and more. Highly versatile, it can function as a work bag, a travel companion, or a stylish carryall.
• Cons: Might feel heavy or oversized for some, especially for daily casual use. Its larger size can overwhelm petite frames.

The Saumur 35 is ideal for those who need a versatile bag that transitions seamlessly from the office to the weekend or for individuals who like to be prepared with everything they might need.

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Saumur 30 vs. Saumur 35 Comparison

Dimensions, Capacity & Functionality

The most obvious difference lies in the dimensions. The Saumur 30, at 30 cm wide, is perfectly sized for core essentials: a phone, small wallet, keys, and a few makeup items. Its two compartments help with basic organization but won't stretch to accommodate much more. Breaking out a measuring tape can be helpful: 30cm is just under 12 inches wide.

The Saumur 35 expands to 35 cm (about 13.8 inches), and that extra 5 cm makes a significant difference. It can comfortably house a small tablet (like an iPad Mini), a notebook, a larger wallet, and even a compact umbrella or water bottle. This elevates it from a daily essentials bag to a true day-to-day workhorse capable of carrying more for longer outings.

Style & Aesthetic

Both sizes share the same equestrian-inspired, timeless design. However, their size influences their overall look. The Saumur 30 presents a more petite, chic, and subtle profile. It functions as a classic accessory that complements an outfit without dominating it, making it an excellent choice for a polished, understated look.

In contrast, the Saumur 35 makes more of a statement. Its larger silhouette is more noticeable and feels more substantial. It projects a sense of readiness and utility while remaining unequivocally elegant. For those who want their handbag to be a key, functional part of their ensemble, the larger size has more presence.

Comfort & Carrying

Comfort largely depends on how much you plan to carry. The Saumur 30's lighter weight and smaller footprint make it an effortless companion for all-day wear. It sits easily on the hip without feeling intrusive during busy activities like shopping or commuting.

While the Saumur 35 has the same comfortable strap design, its larger capacity means it has the potential to become heavy once filled. Commuting with a tablet, wallet, and other items can place more strain on the shoulder. If you consistently carry a heavier load, this is an important factor to consider for daily comfort.

Price & Value

On the resale market, the Saumur 35 typically commands a slightly higher price than the 30, usually a difference of a few hundred dollars. The better value depends entirely on your needs. If the Saumur 30 holds everything you require, there's no need to pay more for unused space. However, if the 30 is too small, the extra investment for the 35 provides much greater functionality and versatility, making it the more valuable choice for your lifestyle.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both Saumur sizes from Louis Vuitton are fantastic bags, but they are built for different needs.

Choose the Saumur 30 if:

• You prefer carrying only your essential items (phone, small wallet, keys).
• You value a lightweight, compact bag that is easy to wear all day.
• You have a petite frame and want a bag that feels proportional.
• Your style is understated, and you prefer an accessory that complements rather than defines your look.

Choose the Saumur 35 if:

• You regularly carry more than the basics, such as a tablet, notebook, or sunglasses case.
• You need a versatile bag that can function for work, weekends, and light travel.
• You are taller or prefer the look of a more substantial, statement crossbody bag.
• You don't mind the potential extra weight in exchange for significantly more space and functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Saumur 30 and 35?

The main difference is the size and carrying capacity. The Saumur 30 measures 30 cm in width and is ideal for daily essentials, while the Saumur 35 measures 35 cm in width and can fit larger items like a small tablet, notebook, and more, making it better for work or travel.

Can the Saumur 30 fit a modern iPhone?

Yes, the Saumur 30 can easily accommodate any modern smartphone, including the largest Pro Max models, along with other small essentials like a cardholder, keys, and lipstick.

Is the Saumur 35 too big for everyday use?

Not necessarily. For someone who works in an office, travels frequently, or simply likes to carry more items "just in case," the Saumur 35 is perfectly suitable for everyday use. However, for a minimalist or someone who prefers a lighter bag for quick errands, it might feel a bit bulky.

Which size is better for someone petite?

Generally, the Saumur 30 is recommended for petite frames (approx. 5'4" and under) as its proportions are more harmonious. The larger 35 can sometimes feel overwhelming on a smaller build, but body type and personal preference are always the deciding factors.

Are the Louis Vuitton Saumur bags discontinued?

Yes, the classic Monogram Saumur has been discontinued by Louis Vuitton, though they have released updated versions over the years. The classic models are widely available and very popular on the pre-owned luxury market.

Which material is more durable: canvas or leather?

Louis Vuitton's coated canvas (used for Monogram and Damier patterns) is famously durable, lightweight, waterproof, and highly resistant to scratches. It's an excellent choice for a daily bag. Full leather bags offer a different kind of luxury but can be heavier and may require more care to prevent scratches and water marks.

How does the Saumur's design work?

It has a unique saddlebag design with two separate compartments - essentially two bags - strapped together side-by-side and secured with buckles. This allows for excellent organization, letting you separate work items from personal items, for example.

Is the Louis Vuitton Saumur a good investment?

As a classic, discontinued model, the Saumur holds its value well on the resale market. Its timeless design ensures it never goes out of style, making it a solid choice for a pre-owned luxury purchase that you can wear for years and potentially sell later for a good return.