Q: What typically fits inside the Christian Dior Trotter Saddle Bag?
A: With approximate measurements of 26 × 18 × 6 cm, it comfortably holds a smartphone, small wallet or cardholder, keys, lipstick and compact, and slim sunglasses (ideally without a bulky case). The curved shape keeps capacity compact; a small notebook fits, but a tablet, water bottle or thick cosmetics pouch will be tight. Use the rear slip pocket for flat items like travel cards or receipts.

Q: How is it meant to be carried, and is the strap adjustable?
A: This vintage Saddle is designed as a short-shoulder bag with an approximately 18 cm strap drop, sitting neatly under the arm. The strap is fixed and not adjustable or removable. Some owners add third‑party straps, but we do not recommend heavy add‑ons as they can stress vintage hardware and alter the intended look.

Q: What kind of closure does this bag have?
A: It has a flap with a velcro fastening beneath, which is correct for many early‑2000s Saddle bags. Keep the velcro free of lint for best grip and avoid pressing the flap against delicate knits to prevent snagging.

Q: What is the fabric, and is “Trotter” the same as “Oblique”?
A: The bag features blue Dior jacquard canvas commonly referred to as Trotter in the 2000s; this is the brand’s iconic Oblique pattern originally designed by Marc Bohan in 1967. It’s a hard‑wearing woven canvas with leather trim, offering structure and everyday durability when cared for properly.

Q: How should I care for vintage Dior canvas and leather trim?
A: Wipe the canvas and leather gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry immediately. Avoid harsh cleaners, prolonged sunlight, and heavy rain. Store the bag loosely stuffed in a breathable dust bag to maintain its shape, and keep the velcro closed and clean to avoid lint build‑up.

Q: Where is the date code on a vintage Saddle, and what does it mean?
A: On most Saddles, the date code is stamped on the back of a small leather tab inside the bag—often behind the “Christian Dior” heat‑stamp or on a tab inside the interior pocket. The alphanumeric code indicates factory and production timing; formats vary by era. If you can’t locate it, it may be tucked deep in the pocket or have softened with wear—our team can guide you.

Q: How does this vintage version differ from the modern reissue?
A: The modern Saddle (reintroduced in 2018) typically uses a magnetic closure and is designed to accept longer, sold‑separately shoulder straps. Vintage pieces like this one generally have a velcro closure and a fixed, shorter strap for under‑arm carry. The iconic silhouette and Oblique canvas remain consistent across eras.

Q: What is included with this item?
A: Everything included is listed under the product information on this page. For this piece, no additional items are included. If you need clarification, just ask and we’ll confirm what comes with the bag.

Q: How would you summarise the condition of this bag?
A: Very Good overall, with light signs of use: mild corner scuffing on the exterior, a clean interior with light wear, and shiny hardware showing minor hairline scratches. Please review all photos and measurements for a precise view.

Q: How do you authenticate this bag?
A: Every item at A Retro Tale is verified by in‑house experts using multi‑point checks of materials, stitching, hardware, stamps and date codes. We stand behind the authenticity of all items and can provide additional photos or details on request.

Christian Dior

John Galliano Columbus Street Chic Bag

Louis Vuitton

Murakami MM Aurelia Bag