Goyard Saigon 101: A Journey Through Time & Style

Luxury purveyor Goyard has long captivated handbag enthusiasts with its elusive allure. With roots dating back to 1792, the brand officially established itself in 1853, specializing in trunk-making, box-making, and packing. However, it was in 1892 that Goyard truly left its mark with the creation of the iconic Goyardine canvas.

Image courtesy: @rawan_alrukaibi_kuwait

Today, this hallmark canvas remains synonymous with Goyard’s legacy. Alongside its heritage trunk-making, Goyard is renowned for its coveted tote bags and statement handbags. Each piece showcases the distinctive Goyardine canvas, solidifying its position as an iconic French fashion house.

Among its illustrious collection, the Goyard Saigon Bag stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship. As described by Goyard, this style originated from a bespoke order in the 1930s for a French customer residing in Indochina, and is designed to capture the essence of travel, elegance, and the allure of the Far East.

Reissued in the early 2000s, the Saigon design remains deeply rooted in its heritage drawing inspiration from Goyard’s history in trunk-making. Paying homage to tradition, the Saigon showcases a hand-carved beechwood top handle, leather-reinforced corners, and rivet detailing. Over the years, this iconic silhouette has undergone several adaptations all the while retaining its original essence of timeless luxury.

Image courtesy: Goyard

We delve into the evolution of the Goyard Saigon bag lineup, from the Structured to the Souple, to the contemporary Tote. 

Saigon Structuré

Perhaps the most coveted version among the iconic Goyard Saigon lineup is the Structuré. This style boasts a distinctive trapezoidal silhouette, reminiscent of the iconic Sellier model Hermès bags. Constructed in the iconic Goyardine canvas, complemented by Courcelanges calfskin, the bag features a wooden top handle and wood trim adorning the front with metal rivets, exuding timeless appeal.

Each Saigon Structuré bag is equipped with a removable and adjustable shoulder strap, adding versatility to its design. Whether worn with or without the strap, this elegant top-handle bag effortlessly accommodates various styling preferences, including the option for crossbody wear.

The Mini and PM sizes showcase Goyard’s signature Goyardine pattern in the brand’s classic eleven colors. Additionally, the PM size also offers luxurious leather options for those seeking a more refined look. This understated alternative is crafted entirely in Courcelanges calfskin, and comes in classic Black, Navy Blue, and Grey, alongside vibrant options like Yellow and Green. 

Image courtesy: Goyard

Image courtesy: Goyard

Currently, the Saigon Structuré can be found in the Mini and PM sizes. The MM size was previously offered but has since been discontinued. Occasionally Goyard releases limited edition Nano sizes, typically offered in one color at a time. Moreover, the brand has introduced limited edition Saigon bags with unique patterns layered on top of the signature Goyardine canvas, available in both PM and Mini sizes. 

Goyard Saigon StructuréMeasurements (Inches)Price ($)
Mini5.9 x 7.8 x 2.9$5,360
PM7.8 x 11 x 4.7$5,900

For those seeking an extra dose of luxury appeal, Goyard offers limited quantities in exotic leathers, which Goyard refers to as ‘prime materials’. These precious skins are derived from Australia’s Porous or Africa’s Niloticus crocodiles.

Image courtesy: @balharbourshops

Saigon Mini Trunk

If you’re looking to carry a piece of Goyard’s trunk-making history in a small but perfectly formed package, the Saigon Mini Trunk is your answer. Paying homage to the original inspiration behind the Saigon bag family’s trunk heritage, its iconic trapezoidal shape incorporates many of the Maison’s trunk codes.

Image courtesy: @goyardofficial

Crafted with a Goyardine canvas body, the Mini Trunk features Clamecy Cowhide trim and sturdy metal rivet details. This rigid design is complemented by wooden details, synonymous with the Saigon lineup, adding to its timeless appeal. 

Image courtesy: Goyard

Image courtesy: Goyard

Measuring 5.9 x 8.2 x 3.9 inches, this compact piece offers versatility for both day and night occasions. While the design suggests carrying the bag by its top handle, Goyard has included attachment rings on the Mini Trunk, enabling you to add a shoulder strap. However, it’s important to note that the Mini Trunk doesn’t come with a strap –  however, these can be purchased separately at Goyard.

Image courtesy: @goyardofficial

Currently available in two classic colorways – Black, and a combination of Black Goyardine canvas with Tan leather accents. The Saigon Mini Trunk currently retails for $7,330.

Saigon Souple

For a less structured model, Goyard produces the Saigon Souple, also referred to as the Saigon ‘soft’. Offering a more relaxed silhouette reminiscent of the Retourne model seen in Hermès bags, this version exudes a casual yet sophisticated charm. Maintaining the iconic flap top and recognizable trapezoid shape of its structured counterpart, the Saigon Souple features a wooden top handle and removable strap. Notably, it forgoes the wood and rivet accents down the front, embracing a more understated aesthetic.

Image courtesy: @silviabonfiglioli

Designed with versatility in mind, the Saigon Souple features an adjustable and removable leather shoulder strap, allowing for effortless crossbody styling. Alternatively, for a more elegant look, simply remove the strap and carry the bag by its top handle. 

Image courtesy: @3aysha.almadani

This flexible format is available in the Mini and PM sizes. Although the dimensions are the same as its structured counterpart, the Saigon Souple appears slightly smaller in stature due to its more relaxed silhouette. This phenomenon is similar to the Hermès Kelly, which can appear smaller or larger depending on whether it’s a Sellier or Retourne construction.

Goyard Saigon SoupleMeasurements (Inches)Price ($)
Mini5.9 x 7.8 x 2.9$3,590
PM7.8 x 11 x 4.7

Available in Mini and PM sizes, and showcasing Goyard’s signature Goyardine canvas in eleven classic colors, the Saigon Bag Souple is a versatile addition to any wardrobe.

Image courtesy: Goyard

Image courtesy: Goyard

The Saigon Tote: A Contemporary Twist

In the ever-evolving world of luxury, even esteemed brands like Goyard recognize the need for change. In response to contemporary tastes, Goyard introduced the Saigon Tote Bag, a modern take on its classic design. Retaining some of the design features of its predecessor, the Saigon Tote harmonizes heritage craftsmanship with a fresh perspective.

Read also: Introducing The New Goyard Saigon Tote

Image courtesy: @goyardofficial

Imagined as a more casual offering of the original counterpart, the Saigon Tote is constructed from Goyardine canvas, complemented by Chevroches calfskin. This streamlined design eschews the traditional wooden elements and metal finishings found in the classic Saigon, opting instead for a wooden bar on the back, enhancing both structural integrity and a subtle nod to the brands heritage.

Image courtesy: @goyardofficial

Combining the ease of a tote bag with the sophistication of a handbag, the Saigon Tote offers versatile styling options. Whether open or closed, with the gussets and the flap splayed open or tucked in, this accessory allows for effortless customization. Complete with a calfskin handle top handle, Goyard’s Saigon Tote offers grab-and-go convenience. 

Read also: My Goyard Treasure Hunt for the New Saigon Tote in Paris

Internally, the tote features a lining of linen and cotton, accentuated by a leather tab and loop closure, all finished with palladium hardware. With dimensions of 9.8 x 6.2 x 13.3 inches, its spacious interior caters to the needs of busy individuals on the move. Whether as a trusted travel companion, for daily errands, or as a statement piece, the Saignon Tote seamlessly integrates into any lifestyle. 

The Saignon Tote currently retails for $5,130 and is available in the full spectrum of Goyard colorways. 

All of Goyard’s Saigon lineup, can currently be found in Goyard boutiques worldwide. 

Which Saigon bag is your top pick? Do you love the trunk-inspired Saigon Structuré, or do you prefer the more casual Saigon Souple? Let us know. 

Published: April 24th, 2024
Updated: April 24th, 2024

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