Saint Laurent Cassandre Monogram Leather Clutch in Grain de Poudre Black
Clutch (Envelope silhouette) · Saint Laurent (Kering Group). Established in 1961 by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. Tier: Ultra-luxury.
Collection: Monogram Saint Laurent / Cassandre Line; a permanent classic collection.
Style
Clutch (Envelope silhouette)
Brand
Saint Laurent (Kering Group). Established in 1961 by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. Tier: Ultra-luxury.
Material
Grain de Poudre embossed calfskin leather. Known for its pebbled texture and durability. Machine-stitched with reinforced edge painting.
Dimensions
Width: 24cm (9.4"), Height: 13cm (5.1"), Depth: 5cm (2"). Standard size.
Description
A sophisticated, minimalist evening essential. The Cassandre clutch features a sleek envelope silhouette defined by the iconic interlocking YSL logo. Its Grain de Poudre leather provides a scratch-resistant finish that maintains its structure over time.
Key Features
Interlocking silver-tone YSL logo, V-shaped envelope flap, pebbled leather texture, and slim profile.
Material & Construction
Grain de Poudre embossed calfskin leather. Known for its pebbled texture and durability. Machine-stitched with reinforced edge painting.
Color & Pattern
Noir (Black). Solid color in a fine pebbled 'Grain de Poudre' pattern. This is the brand's most iconic permanent colorway.
Hardware Details
Silver-tone metal hardware. Features the 'Cassandre' YSL interlaced logo. Metal exhibits high-shine finish with specific rivet details at the logo tips.
Interior Description
Black grosgrain lining or leather lining depending on production year. Includes one main compartment and one internal slot pocket with gold/silver heat-stamped branding.
Closure Type
Snap button magnetic closure hidden beneath the V-shaped envelope flap.
Strap & Handle Details
Typically no handle or strap (Clutch style), though some variants include a detachable wristlet or hidden chain strap rings.
Craftsmanship Details
Dense stitch count on the flap border. The 'Y' sits over the 'S', while the 'L' hooks through the 'S'. Edge painting is thick and smooth, showing high-tier finishing.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the V-flap stitching, precise overlap of the Y, S, and L letters in the logo, and the spacing of the rivets on the logo tips. Physical inspection of the date code inside the interior pocket is recommended.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy. Produced in high-standard luxury ateliers ensuring precision in embossing and hardware alignment.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2010s to present). This design was popularized under Hedi Slimane's creative direction during the brand's 'Saint Laurent Paris' rebranding.
Age Estimate
Circa 2018-2023. The crisper font of the YSL logo and the grain depth suggest a more recent production.
Cultural Significance
A staple of modern French luxury and a favorite on red carpets. It represents the transition of the brand from YSL to Saint Laurent while honoring its heritage logo.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Minor surface scratches visible on the YSL logo hardware. Leather grain appears intact without significant corner scuffing.
Value Estimate
Original Retail: $725 - $850. Current Resale: $450 - $650 depending on condition and metal plating state.
Care & Maintenance
Wipe hardware with a microfiber cloth to prevent tarnishing. Store in its original dust bag stuffed with acid-free tissue paper to maintain the envelope shape.
Similar Handbags
Chanel Timeless Clutch (more curved), Saint Laurent Uptown Pouch (no hardware on front), Gucci GG Marmont Clutch (quilted zig-zag).
Interesting Facts
The Cassandre logo was designed in 1961 by the graphic artist Adolphe Mouron Cassandre. It is one of the few luxury logos that can be read vertically.