Céline Trapeze Medium in Smooth Leather and Suede Tri-Color (Black/Dune)
Top Handle Satchel with Expandable Wings · Céline (LVMH), designed during the Phoebe Philo era. Luxury tier, famous for 'Old Céline' minimalist aesthetics.
Collection: Trapeze Collection, originally introduced in 2011. This is a permanent colorway variant from the Philo tenure.
Style
Top Handle Satchel with Expandable Wings
Brand
Céline (LVMH), designed during the Phoebe Philo era. Luxury tier, famous for 'Old Céline' minimalist aesthetics.
Material
Tri-material construction featuring smooth box calfskin leather on the flap, pebbled leather on the main body, and suede side wings. Machine-stitched with hand-finished edge painting.
Dimensions
Width: 30cm (base) to 50cm (wings extended), Height: 24cm, Depth: 15cm, Handle Drop: 12cm.
Description
The Céline Trapeze is a masterclass in architectural design, combining the sleek flap of the Classic Box bag with the expansive wings of the Luggage Tote. It is an icon of the 2010s minimalist movement.
Key Features
Collapsible side wings with snap buttons, signature block turn-lock, and the 'tri-color' aesthetic that defined the Philo era.
Material & Construction
Tri-material construction featuring smooth box calfskin leather on the flap, pebbled leather on the main body, and suede side wings. Machine-stitched with hand-finished edge painting.
Color & Pattern
Tri-color palette: Black flap, Dune (beige/tan) body and wings. Solid colors, no patterns, emphasizing geometric color blocking.
Hardware Details
Silver-tone (palladium) hardware. Features a signature rectangular flip-turn lock with 'CÉLINE' engraved on the bottom edge and lobster claw clasps for the strap.
Interior Description
Lined in tonal leather or microfiber, typically featuring two internal slip pockets and a single main compartment. 'Made in Italy' heat stamp present.
Closure Type
Magnetic snap front flap with a secondary rectangular turn-lock; features a hidden top zipper underneath the flap for security.
Strap & Handle Details
Single rolled leather top handle for hand carry and a detachable flat leather shoulder strap for crossbody or shoulder wear.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional edge finishing particularly on the 'ears' (wings). Precise stitching that follows the geometric lines of the flap without fraying.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font spacing in 'CÉLINE' logo, high-quality thick edge painting on the wings, and heavy, substantial feel of the palladium-plated lock.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy by LVMH-contracted ateliers specializing in high-end leather goods and structured skins.
Era & Period
2010s 'It-Bag' Era (Phoebe Philo's Golden Age). Stylistic indicators include the minimalist logo and the signature wide-wing silhouette.
Age Estimate
Circa 2013-2016 based on the 'CÉLINE' accent mark (pre-2018) and the specific hardware finish.
Cultural Significance
Represented the shift toward 'Quiet Luxury' and intellectual fashion in the early 2010s, moving away from loud logos toward recognizable silhouettes.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Minor softening of the suede wings and light surface scuffs on the smooth black leather flap. Hardware shows minimal hairline scratches.
Value Estimate
Original Retail: ~$2,500 - $2,900. Current Resale Market: $600 - $1,100 depending on wing condition and leather stiffness.
Care & Maintenance
The suede wings require a protector spray to prevent water spots. The smooth leather flap should be conditioned with high-quality cream to prevent cracking.
Similar Handbags
Céline Luggage Tote (similar wings), Hermès Kelly (similar flap/handle structure), 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli (similar expandable zippers).
Interesting Facts
The Trapeze was part of the 'Holy Trinity' of Céline bags under Philo, alongside the Luggage Tote and the Trio bag, often seen on celebrities like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.