We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
Perfect for a polished city dinner or a theatre night, this vintage Louis Vuitton Epi Papillon 30 in black Epi leather with gold-tone hardware lends timeless elegance. Its structured barrel silhouette, dual top handles and secure zip top complement tailored looks while carrying essentials in refined style.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What are the measurements of the Papillon 30? A: The Papillon 30 is approximately 30 × 15 × 15 cm. This size gives a roomy cylindrical interior for everyday essentials while remaining compact and easy to carry. Please refer to the Measurements on this page for exact figures for this item.
Q: What typically fits inside the Papillon 30? A: Owners report it comfortably holds a long wallet, smartphone, keys, sunglasses case, a small cosmetics pouch, and a compact umbrella or a small water bottle placed horizontally. Capacity depends on how you pack and the size of each item.
Q: Will an A5 notebook or small tablet fit? A: An A5 notebook can usually fit at an angle. Slim tablets around 8 inches may fit depending on the case, but larger tablets are generally too tall or wide to pass comfortably through the zip opening due to the bag’s 15 cm diameter.
Q: Can I wear the Papillon 30 on the shoulder? A: The classic Papillon 30 is designed as a handheld/top‑handle bag. Some wearers can carry it on the shoulder thanks to the handle drop (this piece is approximately 17 cm), but it will feel snug over thicker clothing. Most find it most comfortable handheld or in the crook of the arm.
Q: Does the Papillon 30 come with a shoulder strap or D‑rings? A: No. The classic design does not include strap attachments and is intended to be carried by the top handles. Aftermarket strap adaptors exist, but we do not recommend them as they may stress the handles and hardware over time.
Q: Is a mini papillon/pouch included with this bag? A: This specific piece includes a matching pouch, as listed in the product information. Historically, some Papillon 30 versions were sold with a companion pouch and others without, so inclusions vary by item and year.
Q: How durable is Epi leather and is it water‑resistant? A: Epi leather is a dyed‑through, textured cowhide renowned for being structured, scratch‑resistant and relatively resistant to light rain—ideal for frequent use. As with all leather, prolonged exposure to water should still be avoided and spills wiped off promptly.
Q: How should I care for vintage Epi leather? A: Wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry immediately. Avoid harsh cleaners, oils and prolonged direct sunlight or heat, which can affect colour and finish. Store the bag loosely stuffed in a breathable dust bag to maintain its shape, and avoid overfilling to prevent stress on the zipper and handles.
Q: Where is the date code and what does it mean? A: On Papillon bags, the date code is typically stamped on a small leather tab inside the bag or directly on the Alcantara lining. It indicates production location and date rather than serving as a unique serial number. Fading is common on older linings; our team can assist with locating and reading it.
Q: Is the Papillon 30 still produced by Louis Vuitton? A: The classic Papillon 30 is generally no longer available new at Louis Vuitton boutiques and is found mainly on the pre‑owned market. Louis Vuitton has released newer interpretations inspired by the original Papillon in recent collections, so availability of modern variants may vary by season and region.
Q: Any tips for setting the bag down? A: Because of its rounded base, the Papillon can roll on sloped or uneven surfaces. Place it on a flat surface, rest it gently against a solid object, or use a bag stand when photographing or displaying it.
SHIPPING TO THE US
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 2-4 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that all return shipments to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Retain your shipping receipt and tracking number until the return is completed and your refund is processed. Return shipping costs will be covered by A Retro Tale, and we will provide you with a prepaid return label.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Louis Vuitton
/ Bags
/ Purses
• Black Epi leather
• Gold-tone hardware
• Dual flat top handles
• Grey Alcantara lining
• Zip-top closure
• Includes a matching pouch
• Vintage
Customs fee and local taxes may apply upon delivery
Free shipping & returns to the U.S.
Export deal 15% off sitewide
Delivered with
pouch
Made in
France
Serial number:
9260W
Product number:
A4305902
The authenticity of this bag has been checked and verified by our experts who have over 10 years of experience in vintage and luxury bags. We also use a well established 3rd party authentication tool to verify our bags.
