Q: What typically fits inside the Christian Dior Trotter Boston 45?
A: With approximate measurements of 46 × 25 × 21 cm, it comfortably holds a weekend’s wardrobe, trainers, a toiletry bag, a sweater, a water bottle, and small tech items. A 13–14 inch laptop in a protective sleeve also fits, though there is no padded compartment. Capacity depends on how you pack—please refer to the Measurements for exact sizing.

Q: Is the Boston 45 carry‑on compliant?
A: At around 46 cm in length, it generally falls within the common cabin‑bag limits used by many airlines (often up to 55 × 40 × 23 cm). Policies do vary by carrier and route, so please check your airline’s current rules before travelling.

Q: Does this bag come with a shoulder strap or strap attachments?
A: No. This piece is the classic handheld Boston with dual rolled handles (approx. 13 cm drop) and no strap rings. It is designed to be carried in the hand or the crook of the arm. We don’t recommend aftermarket solutions that loop around the handles as they can cause wear over time.

Q: What is the material, and what does “Trotter” mean?
A: This example is crafted from brown Trotter embossed leather with dark brown leather trim and brass‑tone hardware. “Trotter” is the house’s monogram motif—also known as Dior Oblique—conceived in the late 1960s and used across many Dior lines. Because this piece is leather rather than jacquard canvas, care should follow leather‑specific guidance.

Q: How should I care for the embossed leather and lining?
A: For leather, wipe gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry immediately; condition sparingly with a neutral leather cream. Avoid solvents, oils, and prolonged exposure to sunlight, heat, or moisture. For the fabric lining, gently vacuum crumbs and use a barely damp cloth for spot cleaning only. Store the bag loosely stuffed with acid‑free tissue in a breathable dust bag, in a cool, dry place, and avoid hanging it by the handles.

Q: Where is the date code on a vintage Dior Boston, and what does it indicate?
A: Many vintage Dior bags have a heat‑stamped leather tab inside (often along a seam or within a pocket) bearing a combination of letters and numbers that can indicate factory and production period. Formats and placement vary by era, and codes can fade with wear. A date code is one data point; overall construction, materials, stamps, and hardware must also be evaluated.

Q: How does A Retro Tale authenticate this bag?
A: Every item is assessed by our in‑house experts using multi‑point checks of materials, stitching, hardware, heat stamps, and interior codes, supported by specialist tools where appropriate. We stand behind the authenticity of all items we sell and can share additional photos or details on request.

Q: What is the condition of this specific piece?
A: It is in good pre‑owned condition with visible scuffing and discolouration on the leather (notably the handles, underside, and trim), light marks to the lining, and scratches and dullness to the hardware. Please review the photos and Condition notes for the full overview.

Q: Does anything else come with the bag?
A: Everything included is listed under product information. If an item such as a dust bag or padlock is not mentioned there, it is not included.

Q: Is the Boston 45 suitable for daily use or short trips?
A: Yes. Its generous capacity makes it excellent as a daily carry‑all, gym bag, or weekender. For electronics, use a separate padded sleeve, and avoid overfilling to maintain the bag’s structure over time.

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