Goyard Artois GM in Noir ($2,025 in Jan ‘21)
I started my research for a designer tote 6 months before making the purchase. I loved the look of Goyard’s hand painted chevron pattern. It was eye catching, but not as obvious as monogram styles of other designers. The iconic St. Louis bag is their bestseller, but I didn’t love how saggy it got when packed full. When the Artois came on the scene I fell in love instantly. It had a more structured look, reinforced leather corners, and a zip closure making it the ultimate tote for everyday use and travel.
In my research on YouTube, forums, and blog reviews it was always compared to the LV Neverfull. I liked the Neverfull, particularly the Damier Ebene style, but wasn’t a fan of the red interior lining or the commentary of the leather straps cracking and needing reglazing. The LV was tempting though for the lower price point and the included detachable pouch wristlet. The Artois only comes with a fully lined pocket inside. The biggest personal con of the LV was that it’s everywhere (no shade to those who have it — it’s a beautiful bag). I loved that Goyard, while prestigious, flew under the radar with very little social media presence, not disclosing their prices, and you had to buy in store or over the phone — there’s only 6 stores in North America! It may make me a little shallow, but I love the exclusivity of Goyard.
After a year of use, I’m still in love with the bag as much as I was the day I bought it in the Beverly Hills boutique. It holds its shape perfectly, fits SO MUCH STUFF with room to spare, and is perfect for traveling. The only wear I’ve had is slight chipping of the paint on the sides where it naturally creases the most. I plan to email Goyard to ask about this, but overall I knew the handpainted nature of the canvas was not indestructible and I certainly don’t baby the bag. To protect the lining and reinforce the shape even more I purchased a felt organizer to place inside on Etsy (not pictured) and when not in use I stuff the bag with paper and store it in its dust bag. While 💰, it’s a bag I’ll have forever and maybe get in another color!
Ask me allll the questions below ⬇️
Original Review: January 28, 2022