If you want to know how to authenticate a Louis Vuitton Speedy B 25 click here.

What can I say…I bloody love this bag. This is my favourite bag that Louis Vuitton has ever produced. I take that back…just as I wrote it I thought no it’s not, it’s the black embossed Artsy MM or the Petite Boite Chapeau (but thats a money is no object purchase), but its a very close contest. Sadly, I don’t have those bags - yet. (resale is still eye wateringly expensive…I’m constantly on the lookout, but the resale price just won’t go down). But, I digress. This bag for me triumphs over the Neverfull MM and the Classic Speedy. I love having the option of the cross body.

The Size

Let’s just get straight to the point: this is the Goldilocks of Louis Vuitton bags. The Speedy Bandoulière 25 is not too big, not too small, it is just right. Do not buy any other sizes… do not get tempted by the lower resale value… no! It’s 25 or nothing in my opinion.

I’ve tried the 20. Super cute, but once you’ve put your phone, sunglasses and keys inside, you’re done. The Nano... is for the super rich only, money is no object… the Nano is a glorified phone case.

And the 30/35/40? They start tipping into “am I packing for an overnight or do I have a big office day ahead?” territory. These sizes are the scene in Succession ‘What a ludicrously capacious bag…what’s in there… flat shoes for the subway… a lunch pail” The 25 is the sweet spot. Big enough to carry your essentials, diary, a book, and even a mini umbrella, or a bendy pair of flats, but compact enough to wear crossbody without ruining your silhouette. Thats always what you have to be mindful of with crossbody sizing…too big and suddenly it feels bulky and does not look good.

Photocredit: Shutterstock . Size 35 (It’s a no from me)

The Crossbody Strap - that elevated the Speedy

The strap makes a huge difference. The original Speedy was a top handle only - fine if you’re happy to look chic, but top-handle for me is impractical. But the addition of the detachable strap in 2011 took this bag into modern-day “I actually have a life to live and look good doing it” world.

The bits that annoy me (but can be fixed)

I’m going to be honest. I usually like a nice structured, boxy bag but when it’s got a few heavy items in it the Speedy doesn’t hold its shape . When you wear it as a cross body or hold the top handles the straps pull the bag up at the attachments but the canvas sags down - see below.

Photocredit: Shutterstock. I know it’s only a small thing… but it really annoys me the sagging at the bottom of the bag.

Also - the zip. I find it a bit scratchy when you’re reaching in and out. It’s not the smoothest experience, especially compared to something like a Celine or a Loewe.

Is it still worth it in 2025?

Short answer: yes. It’s still one of Louis Vuitton’s best-selling bags. There’s a reason why it’s stood the test of time, it’s classic and goes with everything. If you buy the Monogram Canvas version, it genuinely works with casual outfits, smart looks, and even airport style. (I’ve absolutely used it as my personal item for a Easyjet flight and felt inexplicably chic.)

Pricing & Resale (UK)

Retail Price (UK 2025): £1,440 for the classic Monogram Canvas with strap
Resale (preloved):

Great condition: £950–£1,250
Damier ebene is cheaper than Monogram canvas and starts at £850 .
Used, old but tidy: £700–£900
Rare or limited editions: Up to £1,800+
Bargain eBay finds - Speedy Originals (with wear and no crossbody strap): £500–£650
You can regularly find them on all platforms Vestiaire, Handbag Clinic, or Designer Exchange
Always double-check for authenticity (the fakes are getting worryingly good - pay the extra £15-£25).
Personalised bags are the cheapest on resale… I have never attempted to scratch them off - but if you find ones with your initials, winning!!

Final thoughts

If you want a Louis Vuitton bag that’s iconic, practical and genuinely holds value — the Speedy B 25 is hard to beat. Just add a bag insert and be prepared to side-eye the zip occasionally when it scratches you.

It’s the perfect blend of fashion and function. And honestly, if you’re only going to buy one LV bag… I’d argue this should be it.

What it Fits: