Christian Dior Trotter Boston Bag

Q: What typically fits inside the Christian Dior Trotter Boston Bag?
A: With approximate measurements of 30 × 18 × 16 cm and a handle drop of about 12 cm, it comfortably holds a long wallet, phone, keys, sunglasses case, a small cosmetics pouch, a compact umbrella and a 500 ml bottle laid horizontally. A standard tablet up to around 11 inches can fit; A4 paper (21 × 29.7 cm) will not lie flat due to the 18 cm height.

Q: Is this size suitable for airline cabin use?
A: Yes. Its compact dimensions are well under typical cabin-bag limits used by many airlines (often around 56 × 36 × 23 cm). It is generally carried as a personal item, but policies vary, so please check your specific airline before travelling.

Q: Does this bag come with a shoulder strap or support one?
A: This example is the classic handheld Boston with dual rolled handles and a zip top. No shoulder strap is included, and it is intended to be carried by hand or on the arm. We do not recommend attaching aftermarket hardware to the handles.

Q: What is the Trotter/Oblique canvas and how should I clean it?
A: The Trotter (also called Oblique) canvas is a durable jacquard fabric with leather trim. For routine care, use a soft brush or lint roller to lift surface dust. For spot cleaning, lightly dab with a soft cloth dampened with lukewarm water and a tiny amount of mild soap, then blot dry. Avoid soaking, harsh chemicals, or vigorous scrubbing, and consider professional cleaning for stubborn marks.

Q: The listing notes the lining is peeling—can I still use the bag?
A: Yes, but expect some flaking from the interior when in use. Many buyers use a bag organiser/insert or small pouches to keep contents clean. If desired, a specialist restorer can discuss relining options; outcomes vary by workshop and material availability.

Q: Where would the Dior date/serial code be on this style, and what does it mean?
A: On many early-2000s Dior bags, the code is found on the reverse of the leather “made in” tag, often inside the interior pocket. The alphanumeric code can indicate factory and approximate production period. Some earlier vintage pieces may have different formats or none at all; the presence or format of a code alone does not guarantee authenticity.

Q: Is the bag waterproof?
A: No. Jacquard canvas and leather trim are not waterproof. If the bag gets wet, gently blot with a clean cloth and allow it to air-dry away from heat sources. Prolonged exposure to rain can spot fabric and stress leather, so consider using a protective cover in bad weather.

Q: What is included with this item?
A: The product information for this specific listing shows that no additional items are included. Everything that comes with the bag is always listed in the product information section.

Q: The hardware shows discolouration—can it be polished?
A: Gold-tone plating can be delicate. Wipe gently with a dry microfibre cloth; avoid abrasive polishes or chemicals that can thin the plating. For more advanced brightening or replating, consult a professional restorer.

Q: How does A Retro Tale authenticate this bag?
A: Every item is thoroughly examined by our in-house experts using multi-point checks of materials, stitching, hardware, stamps and date codes where applicable. We stand behind the authenticity of all items we sell and are happy to share additional product information on request.