Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton came a long way from his humble beginnings. The son of a farmer, Vuitton lost his mother in his youth. Aged 13, young Vuitton struck out to Paris in search of his fortune, and what a journey it would turn out to be! Vuitton's 292 mile on-foot trek to Paris took two years, with stops along the way to take on odd jobs for food and lodgings.

Vuitton reached Paris in 1837, aged 16. Taking on an apprenticeship in a renowned box-maker and packer workshop, Vuitton learnt quickly and earned himself a reputation as a masterful craftsman. Eventually setting up his own shop in Paris, Vuitton introduced his revolutionary stackable rectangular trunks – unheard of at the time. His high quality workmanship and ingenious products earned him countless plaudits.

Eventually Vuitton was bestowed the honour of being hired as personal box maker and packer to the Empress of France and other royals.