There is one bag in my collection that I seem to constantly return to. I’ve tried countless times to transition to a smaller cross-body type bag, which is all the rage nowadays, but nothing seems to suit my lifestyle better than the Louis Vuitton Neverfull tote. Louis Vuitton, shortened to LV, was founded in 1854 as a French luggage-making family-operated business. Over the years, the company has evolved into a leading international fashion power house, with products ranging from luxury luggage and other leather goods, to ready-to-wear and accessories, sunglasses and jewelry. The Neverfull bag is one of their most popular pieces, and rightfully so.
Timeless Style
Although a fairly new addition to the LV line, having been introduced in 2007, the Neverfull tote has quickly taken center stage to become one of the most successful bags for the brand. It is the type of bag that I don’t think will ever go out of style and can be worn whatever the trend or season. A tote is the kind of bag that everyone adds to their collection at some point. It’s perfect for any type of situation: work, commuting, traveling, the gym, it even functions as a diaper bag (oh yes, I have!). The shape of the Neverfull is very loose and the sides aren’t rigid, which means the bag easily conforms to anything you need to add inside. LV last updated this bag in May 2014 to include a detachable wristlet.
Colors
The Neverfull comes in a vast array of patterns and colors, from the tried-and-true Monogram and Damier Canvas to vibrant colors in the durable Epi Leather. LV periodically adds new options to their Neverfull collection via limited editions and artist collaborations. While all these prints, colors and limited editions may be tempting, I opted for the safe Damier Ebene Canvas to ensure I’m getting the most of out of my purchase. It is one of LV’s most popular patters (alongside the Monogram, of course), versatile and foolproof. There are a number of other neutral tone options (the Monogram Canvas, Damier Azur, the Black Epi Leather and Indigo Epi Leather) which are equally as versatile and work very well with any outfit, season or trend.
Size
The Neverfull tote comes in three different sizes: PM (which is the smallest size, comes with two options for the interior liner: beige or fuschia), MM (medium size with four available colors for the liner inside: beige, red, fuschia or yellow mimosa) or GM (their biggest size yet, same liner options as with the MM size). No matter which size you opt for, you will be able to fit anything you really need to carry with you. The name fits this bag to a T, as it truly is never full! Again, I chose to play it safe and opted for the medium or MM size.
Personal Thoughts
I spent years longing for a Neverfull tote. I researched it extensively, learned everything I could about it from where and how it’s made, to reading every existing review I could find. Over the years I watched multiple family members, friends and coworkers join the Neverfull ranks. I started saving for the bag and had my set budget way before I actually purchased it. I read that some customers had complained about the glaze on the handle cracking easily, and although I didn’t personally know anyone with this issue, it put me on the fence about investing in this bag. Even though, Louis Vuitton does exchange or repair such issues, I just didn’t want to have buyer’s remorse and deal with the hassle. I reassessed multiple times if I truly needed this bag, if I could get multiple wear out of it and if I really loved it. When I was pregnant with my son and started looking at diaper bags, I realized that a lot of the options available were not durable yet costly for what you get, not to mention that you can’t really use these bags once your kids are out of diapers. So since I already had my savings in my bag budget (I start a bag budget every year), I decided to take the plunge and invest in the Neverfull. I chose the medium size (MM) in Damier Ebene Canvas with red lining. One of the best decisions I’ve made so far! I’ve had the bag for three years now and have used it almost every day for these past three years. I’ve used it for traveling, commuting, as a gym bag, a beach bag, a dog carrier (when my puppy was really a puppy) and of course, as a diaper bag! I’ve had baby formula spill inside the bag multiple times, as well as other baby food, snacks and fruits. My son even threw up on the bag once when he was very little! I’m proud to say that the bag has survived every time in perfect condition. I’ve cleaned the inside with soap and water and let it air dry after each incident and the lining is still in great condition and shows no stains or wear. It really is an indestructible bag (and I’ve put this one through the wringer) and a great investment in my opinion. It is not a cheap bag by any means and it might seem incredibly expensive, but when you think about the cost per wear, durability and functionality, the Neverfull really becomes the ultimate winner and the perfect addition to anyone’s wardrobe!
I’ve been wanting one of these bags for ages! I keep talking myself out of it mostly because of the price factor. You bring up some great points, if you consider the versatility and durability, this bag can last a lifetime. I think I might just take the plunge.
That’s how I felt too. I held off for the longest time, did a lot of research and eventually took the plunge. It’s become my favorite bag at the moment as it fits my lifestyle perfectly! ~ Cat
Obsessed with this bag and will probably purchase it for my birthday in May! Loved the review and the photos!
Happy early Birthday! Thank you so much for the nice comments! ~ Cat
I’ve had this bag in the Monogram canvas for years! I love it and it still looks like new. It truly is a great, timeless piece.
Yes, it seems as if these bag really are indestructible! Hope you have a great week! ~ Cat
I think it’s a great bag as you said it will never go out of style and best of all it truly is neverfull ?. Great article you could sell ice to an Eskimo lady Welldone, I want one now ✨
Thank you so much! As I’ve said before, I’m so humbled that you read my blog and I really appreciate your feedback! Have a great rest of the week and stay warm, Esnath! ~ Cat
I own several LV bags but the Neverfull is my favorite. Great review!
It’s definitely become my favorite as well. Thank you for reading the post, I’m glad you liked it. ~ Cat
Hi, I love this bag too but still have not taken the plunge! The bag is so common, feels like everyone has one, did that bother you about this bag? Also is the monogramming an additional charge?
Luckily, the monogramming is complimentary. Even if you don’t purchase the item from them (say you buy a used LV bag off someone else), as long as it’s an original LV item, they will monogram it for you free of charge. You’re very right, it is such a common bag. But I think it’s for good reasons. It is a great item to own and most importantly, very very durable, which is what sold me on it. I needed an indestructible bag that I can carry around and travel with (not that I travel that much these days) without having to worry about scratching it, getting it dirty, etc. This one fit the bill. I think nowadays everyone is trying to keep up with the next best thing, so no matter what bag or item you decide to go for, chances are someone else already has it! Sadly, we live in a very materialistic world. But if you think this bag suits your lifestyle, I say go for it, regardless what other people already have. Don’t let that stop you from getting what you want. ~ Cat L.
I’ve always wanted to own one of these bags , but was contemplating due to the price , but after ready your article I’m considering the investment . It’s definitely a beautiful bag and perfect for my everyday activities .
Thank you! It is definitely an investment, but I think if you can save up and make it happen, do consider it. ~ Cat L.
Thank you for a great review! I had been contemplating purchasing the NF for the past year. Finally took the plunge last week and chose the mono NF GM. I treated the vachetta with a rain & stain repellent, it’s a gorgeous bag. I love large totes, and travel often. It doesn’t bother me that many people have the same bag, it works for me and I love it!!! It’s perfect for travel, shopping, etc. Now, I am saving for the DE NF GM!!!!! Thanks again for a very informative review!
Thank you for stopping by and for taking the time to comment. I’m glad you enjoyed the review. Sounds like you have a wonderful collection of bags. That is such a great idea to treat the outside of the bag. I never thought about it but need to do that as well. ~ Cat L.
Hi again. I last commented June 2016 when I purchased the NF GM in Mono. I was saving for the NF GM in Damier Ebene because the size and style of the NF works great for me, especially for travel and I finally purchased it three weeks ago!!! Very happy, love it!!! I use an organizer with the zip top which keeps everything organized and secure. Thanks for all of your informative comments about the NF!!!
Hi Cynthia, so happy to read your comment. Congrats on the bag! So happy you found my post helpful. These bags are an investment but definitely worth it in my humble opinion. Enjoy your beautiful bag! Thank you again for your comment! ~ Cat L.
Thank you so much for this review, I’ve been so undecided , I just couldn’t decide if I wanted a speedy 30 or a neverfull……..now I know exactly what I want. Thank you for your honest and interesting opinion.
Thank you for stopping by and reading my post! So glad you enjoyed the review and found it helpful!
~ Cat L.
I have been trying to talk myself out of buying one of these. Yesterday I decided I will buy one today. After reading your review – I am even more excited. I have to go to school on Monday for my last class in my PhD program, I cannot wait to show it off. I know , I sound a little shallow right now – we are allowed every once in a while.
Rose: Enjoy showing off your new bag!!! Which one did you get? I recently purchased the mono NF GM. I love it!!! Great for travel, shopping and everyday!
Rose, congrats on getting thru your PhD program. That is such a huge accomplishment.
So glad you found this review helpful. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you might have and I’ll do my best to answer them!
~ Cat L.
My husband got me the NF MM in the Damier print. I have wanted one for a long time and I love this bag. I will get a lot of use out of it!
That is such a beautiful bag! Nothing like the feeling of a new bag to dress up any outfit. Enjoy it, I’m sure it’s much deserved!
~ Cat L.
Yes yes yes love your review! I have been looking at this bag for over a year now… Cannot wait to get mine! X
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your kind words! Congrats on the bag and enjoy it! It is such a classic and timeless piece!
~ Cat L.
I have been eyeing this bag for months but have read reviews where the handles and trim have problems with cracking. Have you heard of this? My fear is buying this bag and then having this happen. I read that LV customer service is not that great when there are issues. Not really sure if that’s true?? Any insight would be appreciated–thanks!
Hi Jen, I read that some customers had complained about the glaze on the handle cracking easily and that had been one of my biggest concerns when deciding whether or not to purchase the bag. Although I didn’t personally know anyone with this issue, it still put me on the fence about investing in this bag. Louis Vuitton does exchange or repair such issues, but I do have to agree that their customer service is not always that easy to deal with.
Now I’ve had this bag for three years or perhaps a little over three years now, and have put the bag thru the wringer, as I mention in the Final Thoughts section of my review. I have never had any issues with the straps and to this day, this tote is my most worn bag. Hope this helps!
~ Cat L.
Cat what a fantastic blog. I’m up a little late tonight and finally had a chance to view. The Neverfull tote Is my go-to as well. I remember purchasing a skip hop diaper bag for myself when Antonio was an infant. Used that bag just a few times as I went back to my Neverfull which holds so much more. I can hear my husband say over and over “is your Neverfull, Everfull”?
By the way I can see you starting a fashion blog or fashion gallery on Insta gram. Lovely photos and flat lays!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Felicia, thank you so much for stopping by. You have been one of my biggest supporters from my early days on Instagram and it means more than you know! So glad you enjoyed the post. I actually had a similar experience where I had a diaper bag I received as a gift at my baby shower, but ended up returning to the Neverfull. It has been my most used bag and served so many different purposes: diaper bag, dog carrier, travel bag, gym bag, you name it. Such a great tote that I simply cannot recommend enough! I would love to dabble into fashion a little more but as of right now, I don’t seem to have the time to style my outfits, do my hair and makeup, pick a location and find someone to take the photos. Perhaps once my son starts school, I’ll be able to venture into fashion a little more. Thank you again so much for all of your support! Hope you’re having a great week! ~ Cat L.
Hi loved this post! Also great pictures of the bag! Was wondering if its durable enough to carry a laptop and for travel in general. Really contemplating buying, just want to make sure the straps are sturdy. I’m a little weary of the strap problem i’ve been reading about.
Hi Ella, thank you for stopping by and reading my post. I’ve had this bag for almost three years now and have put it thru the wringer. I still wear it every day, as I’m a stay at home mom and my son is still in diapers and prefers to eat on the go (mommy problems!). In my opinion, the bag is perfect for carrying work related necessities such as a laptop and perfect for traveling. The fact that it’s not real leather, but the treated Louis Vuitton signature material, makes it the sturdiest bag I’ve ever carried. The straps are real leather but it’s a very strong, durable type leather (not soft like say the Balenciaga signature leather). To this day, I’ve never had any issues with the straps. I realize the bag is an investment, but in my humble opinion it is worth splurging for as it is the type of bag that will last a life time. Hope this answers your question! Thank you again for reading my post! ~ Cat L.
this was really helpful. I am planning to get the GM for travel, work, and everything in between. I was worried about the straps. I will typically carry an ipad, 13 in macbook, planner, makeup bag, and 1-2 other items. When I travel might add 1-2 outfits light outfits.
I was so excited to read your post! My husband is getting ready to but this bag for me! Should we got to an actual LV store or is Neiman’s or Bloomindales better? I want the classic monogram and I like the darker strap. Does it come in different colored straps or just the light tan? Did you mention that they will monogram the bag? How long does that take?
Thanks for your guidance and expertise!
Thank you for reading my post! Congrats on the bag, hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I have! To this date, it’s still my most worn bag. I purchased mine at the Louis Vuitton store. Often times the stand alone Louis Vuitton stores have more options available in store and can also monogram the items for you. The classic monogram canvas comes with the light beige straps. Sadly you can’t have that customized. The Damier Ebene however comes with the darker straps. I had my bag monogramed with my initials as you can see in the photos. This type of engraving was complimentary and done it the store. It took about 10-20 minutes. Hope this helps!
~ Cat L.
Thank you for the information. I like all of the other women have been wanting one for years and will be purchasing mine tomorrow. My birthday is Friday and this will be a much deserved treat for myself. I have read many mixed reviews and watched many videos from customers who have purchased this bag and by far yours seems to be the most reliable and honest. Thanks for sharing.
Hi I love the bag too and am considering having one as a Christmas present but just a little concerned that there is no zip. Do you find it a problem? Do you feel your stuff is safe?
Hi Deb, thanks for stopping by. I used to think not having a zipper would be a deal breaker, especially as I intended to use this bag for traveling as well. However, I’ve somehow managed to get around not having a zipper and enjoy the bag, even when traveling. When I don’t have the bag on me, it’s usually in my lap, or sitting in a chair next to me, or hung on a chair in a restaurant or placed under the seat in front of me when I fly. So I have to say it hasn’t really been that big of an issue as I thought it would be. Hope this helps! ~ Cat L.
Great review! Can you elaborate on why you opted for damiere ebene over monogram?? Was it just the look or durability?
Thank you so much, glad you liked the review! I opted for the damiere ebene as I bought the bag to use primarily for every day needs (including as a diaper bag) and for traveling. I felt the darker colors would hold up better and over the time, the bag would still look brand new. Hope this helps! ~ Cat L.
Hi — did you try both the MM and GM sizes? I am worried that the MM size wouldn’t be large enough, but you said you used it as a diaper bag.
Hi Kristen, thank you for stopping by. I had tried both sizes and ultimately felt that the GM size was too big for my purposes, and thus I opted for the MM. I’m still using it as a diaper bag, my son just turned two not too long ago. The bag fits his changing pad, about 3-5 diapers, a pack of wipes (I usually keep the travel size Pampers Sensitive wipes which is not too heavy or bulky), his and my water bottle, a few snacks, change of clothes for him (not always but frequently I carry a Tshirt, pair of shorts and socks), a small LV cosmetic case for my on the go makeup, a small key pouch, my wallet, my sunglasses. I think I’ve learned to deal with what I have. Had I gotten the bigger bag, I’m sure I would have found ways to carry even more stuff with me, but I think you know your family and their needs and that will help you decide. Hope this helps! ~ Cat L.
Hey! I was wondering if the MM would be good for work… I carry around a folder, water bottle, snacks, and odds and ends. I think the largest size looks too big. Thanks so much! I’ve been back and forth on this bag awhile now… thanks!
Vicki K.
Hi Vicki, thank you for stopping by. I personally think the MM size makes the best work bag. I’m a full time mom and blogger and the bag is definitely multipurpose for me. When I have to run around town for meetings or to shoot my photos, I pack my laptop, a notebook, a snack, a water bottle, a mini cosmetic pouch with necessities,sometimes a charger, as well as a few props for photos (picture frames, etc). The bag doesn’t feel overly heavy as some other LV models do, and is incredibly sturdy. There are some other photos of the bag on my Instagram @DailyCatL . In my opinion, the MM makes an excellent work bag and it stands the test of time, thus making the investment worth it. Hope this helps. ~ Cat L.
Hi! I, like so many others, have been torn on this bag and your review is very helpful. I literally almost purchased it last week but, when I went to try it on (again!), it seemed like the drop on the straps was a bit shorter and closer up under my arm. The store rep said the leather would stretch a bit. Have you noticed any stretch or give with your handles? Also, when the bag is full, do you feel like the thin straps dig into your shoulder?
Thanks so much for the feedback!
Hi Adriana, thank you for stopping by. To be completely honest, I don’t think the straps have the ability to stretch. They’re made of very sturdy leather which in turn makes the bag so durable as well, but I really don’t think they stretch. When full, the bag sits comfortably on my shoulder, no feeling of the straps digging into the shoulder. I think the size and shape work well with the straps to where the bag balances nicely when worn on the shoulder. Hope this helps! ~ Cat L.
It does – thanks so much and Happy New Year!
Hi,
After reviewing your comments about the LV Neverfull last year, I finally treated myself to the Mono GM NF last summer. I treated the vachetta with Appleguard Rain & Stain Repellent spray, and there are no water spots after carrying it in the rain a few times! I must agree, it is a lovely tote. I travel often, and the NF has become my go to travel bag, shopping bag and everyday bag! It holds everything I need (which is a lot), and the straps are quite comfortable on my shoulder. My ex-large purse organizer fits perfectly, along with a couple of pouches. My two favorite bags are definitely my NF GM and my Mono Speedy 40. Thanks again for such a great review of the LV NF!!!!!
Hi Cynthia, thank you so much for the update. So glad you have found my post helpful! It is feedback like yours that motivates and encourages me to stay consistent with the blog! I really appreciate it! Congrags on the bag! Hope you enjoy it for years to come! It truly is a very beautiful and useful bag! ~ Cat L.
Hello, thank you so much for your post. I have just purchased the Neverfull MM Damier with red lining too! I’m too scared to open it as i was thinking of returning it for the monogram due to the cracking of the straps issue. So confusing.
I’m a mum of 1 and expecting my second and really wanted a sexy baby bag to go in the basket of my Bugaboo Donkey stroller. Can i ask what you use to hang the bag off the stroller?
Hi Angelique, thank you for stopping by. I use something called a Mommy Hook which you can find on Amazon, fairly inexpensive! Glad you enjoyed the post! ~ Cat L.
Loved this review. Planning to purchase today or tomorrow! I have been eyeing this bag like others for a while. I’m 5’9 and 165 lbs so I think the GM will work well for me. I have a fear of getting the MM and wishing I had gone bigger
Hi,
Great review. What scarf have you tied to it? I love it!
Hi Victoria, thank you for reading. The scarf is a vintage Oscar de la Renta I’ve had for many years, but I think any bright and vibrant scarf would look nice with this LV pattern! ~ Cat L.
I recently purchased an MM in this same canvas with the rose ballerine interior. I have an organizer to go in the bottom to prevent stains/marks but it takes up so much room! Do you use an organizer in your bag or just throw everything in? I love this review!
The rose ballerine is so beautiful. Congrats on the bag! I think the organizer is a great idea considering the layout of the interior. I too have everything sorted and compartmentalized in various pouches I carry in the bag. It makes life so much easier! ~ Cat L.
I am seriously considering taking the plunge for the LV NF MM.
I love that classic monogram, but I’m worried about the light straps.
I’m curious….are the lighter straps the ones that are more prone to crack?
I SO wish the monogram came with those dark straps!
Thanks for walking us through this, because one of my main questions was the size.
Your article cleared that up for me.
Hi DeAnna, thank you for stopping by. So happy you found the post helpful. I have a few LV bags in the classic monogram and while I do love the pattern, the lighter straps do show the wear a lot more. The Neverfull is the type of bag that I envisioned myself as having forever. From the beginning, I knew I would use the bag almost daily thus I wanted something that would withhold the test of time. In my experience, the lighter straps from the classic monogram show everything from stains to dirt, and sometimes that stops me from reaching for those bags. Of course LV can replace the straps, but that’s quite pricey and takes a few weeks. I know it’s not an easy decision as these bags are an investment. Hopefully this helps. Best of luck and hope you’ll enjoy your bag as much as I have enjoyed mine. ~ Cat L.