Louis Vuitton Westminster PM vs. GM: Which size is right for you?

The Louis Vuitton Westminster PM is a compact, chic handbag ideal for essentials, while the larger GM offers significantly more space, making it a better choice for work or travel. The primary differences are size and capacity: the PM measures 13 inches wide, whereas the GM is a more substantial 16 inches wide, directly impacting how much each can carry and its overall presence.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Westminster size for your needs.

Louis Vuitton Westminster PM

The Westminster PM (Petit Modele) is the smaller of the two sizes, designed for elegance and functionality in a more compact package. Its structured silhouette and classic Damier canvas offer a sophisticated look that is perfect for daily use, especially for those who prefer to carry only their essentials. It presents a more understated luxury that transitions easily from a daytime lunch to an evening out.

• What it is: A structured, medium-sized handbag with a top-handle design, typically crafted in Louis Vuitton's iconic Damier coated canvas.
• Key features: Dimensions of 13" W x 9" H x 6" D, leather trim, durable coated canvas, top zipper closure, and signature Louis Vuitton hardware including a lock and key.
• Price: Approximately $3,000 on the resale market.
• Materials/Construction: Made with highly durable coated canvas and features smooth leather trim and handles. The interior is typically lined with a soft microfiber.
• Sizing/Fit: Weighing around 2.5 pounds, it feels substantial but not overly heavy. The 4-inch handle drop is designed for hand-carrying or fitting comfortably in the crook of the arm.
• Pros: Lighter and more portable than the GM. Sophisticated, compact size is versatile for both day and night. Less bulky, making it easy to carry. Retains its structured shape well.
• Cons: Limited capacity - can't fit a laptop or larger documents. Discontinued model, so it must be sourced from the resale market. Shorter handle drop is not suitable for shoulder wear.

This size works well for individuals seeking a polished, everyday bag for essentials, favoring portability and a classic, discreet look.

Shop this product: Available on pre-owned luxury marketplaces.

Louis Vuitton Westminster GM

The Westminster GM (Grand Modele) is the larger, more statement-making version of the handbag. Designed for those who need extra carrying capacity without compromising on style, the GM can comfortably hold everyday work items like a tablet or notebook alongside personal belongings. Its increased size gives it a more commanding presence while retaining the elegant, structured design of the Westminster line.

• What it is: The largest size of the Westminster handbag, offering ample room for daily work, travel, or everyday essentials.
• Key features: Dimensions of 16" W x 11" H x 7" D, a pleated design that allows for slight expansion, leather trim, top zipper closure, and golden brass hardware.
• Price: Approximately $3,500 on the resale market.
• Materials/Construction: Crafted from Louis Vuitton's signature durable coated canvas with reinforcement at the base and handles to support a heavier load.
• Sizing/Fit: Weighs around 3.2 pounds and feels noticeably larger and heavier than the PM. The slightly longer 4.5-inch handle drop provides a bit more room for carrying.
• Pros: Generous interior space holds essentials plus a tablet, documents, or a water bottle. Makes a strong style statement. Great option for a fashionable work or travel bag. Sturdy construction made for carrying more weight.
• Cons: Can feel heavy and bulky when fully packed. Higher price point than the PM. Discontinued model, harder to find in pristine condition. Too large for many social or evening occasions.

This bag is ideal for professionals, frequent travelers, or anyone who needs extra room and appreciates a larger, more impactful accessory.

Shop this product: Available on pre-owned luxury marketplaces.

Westminster PM vs. GM Comparison

Fit & Dimensions

The most significant difference lies in the dimensions. The Westminster PM, at 13" x 9" x 6", is a perfect medium-sized handbag that won't overwhelm a petite frame. It’s light enough for comfortable all-day carry. The GM is substantially larger at 16" x 11" x 7". This additional 3 inches in width and 2 inches in height creates a much roomier interior and a bag with a more prominent profile.

The GM also weighs more, at 3.2 pounds compared to the PM's 2.5 pounds when empty. This near-pound difference becomes more noticeable once you start filling the bag. The handle drop is also slightly longer on the GM (4.5" vs. 4"), providing a bit more space, though neither size is designed to be a shoulder bag.

Capacity & Practicality

Practicality depends entirely on your needs. The Westminster PM is perfect for carrying the essentials: a wallet, phone, keys, sunglasses, and a small cosmetic pouch. It's an excellent choice for daily errands or social events where you don't need to haul around a lot of items.

In contrast, the Westminster GM is the clear winner for anyone needing more space. Its sizable interior can accommodate everything the PM can hold, plus larger items like an iPad or small tablet, a notebook, a planner, a water bottle, and more. This makes it a fantastic option for a stylish work tote or a personal item for flights.

Style & Aesthetic

Both bags share the same elegant DNA - a structured frame, pleated detailing, and the beautiful Damier canvas. However, their size dramatically influences their aesthetic. The Westminster PM projects a chic, reserved, and classic look. It's a sophisticated accessory that complements an outfit without overpowering it.

The Westminster GM makes a bolder statement. Its larger proportions give it a more commanding presence, signaling that its owner is prepared for anything. It’s less suited for evening wear but excels as a powerful daytime accessory for professional settings or stylish travel.

Price & Value

On the resale market, the Westminster GM typically costs around $500 more than the PM. The price difference reflects its larger size, requiring more materials and construction effort. The value for you depends on utility. If you need the space, the extra cost for the GM is justified. However, if you would never use the additional capacity, the PM offers the same luxurious style and quality from Louis Vuitton at a lower price point, making it the better value.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both Westminster bags are excellent choices, but they serve different lifestyles and preferences.

Choose the Westminster PM if:

• You carry just the essentials like a phone, wallet, keys, and lipstick.
• You want a lightweight handbag for all-day comfort.
• You need a versatile bag that can easily transition from day to evening outings.
• You have a more petite frame and prefer bags that are proportional to your size.

Choose the Westminster GM if:

• You regularly carry items like a tablet, notebook, or a "just-in-case" pouch.
• You are looking for a sophisticated and stylish bag for work or travel.
• You prefer larger, statement-making handbags.
• You don't mind the added weight and bulk that comes with more capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Louis Vuitton Westminster PM and GM?

The main difference is size and carrying capacity. The GM is significantly larger (16" wide) than the PM (13" wide), allowing it to hold work or travel items like a tablet, while the PM is designed for just the daily essentials.

What do PM and GM stand for?

PM stands for "Petit Modele" (Small Model in French), and GM stands for "Grand Modele" (Large Model). These acronyms are used across many Louis Vuitton bag styles to denote size.

What can fit inside the Westminster PM?

The Westminster PM can comfortably fit a wallet, smartphone, keys, sunglasses case, and a few small cosmetic items. It is not large enough for most tablets or laptops.

What can fit inside the Westminster GM?

The GM can accommodate all the essentials from the PM, plus larger items like an iPad, a small umbrella, a water bottle, a notebook, and other professional or travel must-haves.

Is the Louis Vuitton Westminster discontinued?

Yes, the Westminster line has been discontinued by Louis Vuitton. Both the PM and GM are now only available on the pre-owned or resale market.

Which size is better for work?

The Westminster GM is the better choice for work due to its generous capacity. It can function as a chic and practical tote for carrying documents, a tablet, and other professional items.

Which Westminster is more versatile?

The PM is arguably more versatile. Its compact size makes it suitable for everyday running around, brunch with friends, and even dinner dates, while the GM's substantial size can feel too large for more casual or evening settings.

How much heavier is the GM?

The GM weighs approximately 3.2 pounds (1.45 kg) when empty, which is about 0.7 pounds (0.35 kg) heavier than the PM's weight of 2.5 pounds (1.1 kg).

Can you wear the Westminster on your shoulder?

No, neither the PM nor the GM is designed as a shoulder bag. Both have relatively short handle drops (4" for PM, 4.5" for GM) intended for carrying by hand or in the crook of the arm.