If you're reading this post you're probably torn between purchasing an Artsy or buying a Neverfull.
I hear your pain. Both are shoulder bags, both are popular and it would be extremely difficult to make a choice without seeing them in person.
Let's take a look at both bags and see which is right for you.
Louis Vuitton Artsy MM History
The bag was introduced in 2009. At that time it was only released in Monogram Canvas. A year later, Louis Vuitton also made a version in Monogram Empreinte.
At that time the bag didn't have any leather trim on the top part.
In 2019 Louis Vuitton updated the Artsy with a top leather trim. There are rumors that they did it because of the typical canvas cracking on the top part. The leather part is supposed to prevent the canvas from cracking.
Louis Vuitton Artsy MM vs. Neverfull MM
Now let's examine an Artsy MM vs. a Neverfull MM and understand the differences.
Style
Both bags are a very popular choice.
Neverfull is an extremely popular tote that fits nearly all occasions. Whether you need a work tote, a plane carry-on or a diaper bag, Neverfull is perfect.
I wouldn't say Artsy is that versatile. It's a cool bag for a city glam chic but I definitely don't see it as a diaper bag as due to its narrow opening you hate the moment you have to get something big out of the bag.
Winner: Neverfull
Pricing
A brand new Artsy MM will cost you about $2,000 plus tax while a Neverfull MM will take $1,320 plus tax out of your pocket. Neverfull is considerably cheaper plus it comes with a pouch that can be used as a wallet.
If you're considering buying a preloved purse, you'll be surprised by the Nevefull price. It's so popular it can sell at almost retail. That's a great sign cause if you don't like it eventually, you'll always easily find the person who needs it most.
The winner: Neverfull
Comfort: Arty MM vs. Neverfull MM
Before I purchased a Neverfull, I believed the straps are too thin and I'll definitely get a problem with handles.
I was totally wrong. These thin straps are super comfortable. They will look more used but not a single functional problem. I ended up with Neverfull as my favorite everyday bag cause you can store as many items as you like.
Artsy handle is very comfortable too, it sits tight on your shoulder without hurting it. However, Artsy is two times heavier than the Neverfull.
Winner: both
Storage options
Both Artsy and Neverfull are very spacious. However, Neverfull has more space and it's easier to manage.
Artsy has 6 small internal pockets and one zipped pocket. I love carrying my documents in a zipped pocket but I couldn't figure out what to do with the other 6. Too complicated for me.
Neverfull has just one zipped pocket which is perfect for my needs. If you love to keep things organized inside your bag, you'll probably need an organizer for a Neverfull. There are plenty of them as the bag is popular.
Winner: Neverfull
Known Defects
It's not a secret that the quality of Louis Vuitton bags is going down. Thus, before purchasing a bag of your dreams it's worth checking whether a bag has a tendency to any kind of issues.
The previous version of the Artsy had a very serious defect: the canvas was cracking on the top trip. It was caused by the fact that the bag was narrower on the top and you had to pull the top trim to take big items out of the bag.
You can take a look at what the bag looked like in my video:
That was very typical for 2010-2012 production years. Now that a bag has a vachetta trim I can't really tell if a new-style Artsy will have any defects.
Moving on to Neverfull, I've NEVER heard of any defects with the canvas Neverfull. The worst wear an tear on a Neverfull is when corners are rubbed through to the lining.
Winner: Neverfull
Security
Artsy has an open top. When you wear it, it sits right under the arm making it extremely difficult for someone to reach in.
Neverfull is not difficult to reach in at all. However, it has these side adjusters that allow you to make the opening narrower, pretty much the same size as Artsy opening.
Winner: both
Staying power
Though both bags are top-selling, it's clear that the Neverfull has become one of the classic bags. Neverfull was included in every limited edition collection released int he past year (Catogram from Grace Coddington, Giant Monogram or Monogram Jungle).
Artsy doesn't get that much attention. Though it's a great hobo, there were many popular hobos that were eventually discontinued (Galliera, Metis Hobo etc)
Winner: Neverfull
Louis Vuitton Artsy vs Neverfull comparison
| Artsy MM | Neverfull MM Monogram | |
| Price, new | $2,000 | $1,320 |
| Price, preloved | $1,500-1,600 | $1,000-1,200 |
| Comes with | charm | pouch (you can use it as a wallet) |
| Weight (1 very light, 10 is heavy) | 7 out of 10 | 4 out of 10 |
| Pockets and storage options | 6 small + 1 zipper pocket | 1 zipper pocket |
| Security | No closure but overall secure as its sitting tight under the arm | Not secure if you don'tuse the side adjusters |
| Variety | Monogram Monogram Empreinte Damier Azur Python | Monogram Damier Azur Damier Ebene Epi all the limited editions |
| Staying power | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Known Defects | top trim, corners | No |
| What I hate about it | Narrow opening | Love it |
Conclusion
No article will help you to see how the bag will sit on your shoulder. Go and try them on int he boutique. Both Artsy and Neverfull are very popular so most probably even the smallest LV store will have both in stock. Try them on and see the ones that are comfortable for you.
Loved the article? Subscribe to our updates.
Either way keep up the excellent quality writing.
Like!! I blog frequently and I really thank you for your content. The article has truly peaked my interest.
I like the valuable info you provide in your articles. I will bookmark your blog and check again here frequently. I am quite sure I will learn a lot of new stuff right here! Best of luck for the next!