Goyard

In 1853, Francois Goyard moved to Paris from Burgundy to improve his lifestyle. He bought shares in the famous Morel brand, a well established and famous trunk maker, where his son Edmond worked along-side him. At the start of the 20th century, just at 25 years old, Edmond took over the company. He was so fascinated with the craft, it inspired him to create a trademark fabric woven out of linen, cotton and hemp and coated with a stylized motif pattern of the three interlaced chevrons.

This “Y” symbol represents the universal connection between a tree, the man and the letter “y” in the family name. Edmond realized that he needed to create the best quality and style to sustain this new luxury luggage collection. Every single piece had to be carefully tailored and go accordingly with the client’s desire. That is when the Goyard trunk was born.

It represents the brand’s entry into the modern era and internationally speaking, it quickly caught on; from the Duke and Duchess of Windsor to John Rockefeller to American presidents too. As the years went by, the company was passed from father to son, and it continued to surpass and succeed in the elite world of luggage-makers. It earned many awards and it was always praised. In 1931, the Goyard entrepreneurs obtained a patent for the design of a “Malle Bureau”: a portable box that transforms when It opens into a writing tablet with drawers. The world fell in love with this unique design, which proved that the Goyard trunks and luggage never stops evolving and will forever be under the family’s heritage.

The company was handed down from father to son until 1998 when a businessman Jean-Michel Signoles bought the brand, which he now runs it with his two sons. This new family still upholds the craftsmanship that is known to the brand, while ensuring its independence.

Today the house is known for its famous canvas made of a mixture of linen, hemp and cotton, which is manufactured in the brand’s own workshops. This specific canvas has been made waterproof now thanks to the advances in technology. The brand also creates custom made pieces such as: a trunk designed to carry sport equipment, another designed to transport a bike, other to hold perfumes, cigars and even caviar. e. Goyard was one of the first brands that created a recognizable logo that has know become known worldwide as a symbol of high end luxury. It has targeted an upscale clientele that prefers a more discreet chic.