About the Saint Laurent Muse Bag
The YSL Muse launched in 2005 and became one of the brand’s most iconic bags. The handbag was a favorite of celebrities and fashion bloggers, making it one of the first YSL bags to achieve true “It” status. Due to its success, Saint Laurent added the Muse Two to the family in 2008. The original version is bowler-shaped, while the Muse Two is more of a satchel. Both versions have oversized compartments designed for holding your essentials (and then some).
In 2012, Hedi Slimane became YSL’s creative director, ushering in a new era and streamlined aesthetic. Thus, in 2013, the House retired the Muse bag to make way for Slimane’s vision, including changing the official name from Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) to Saint Laurent.
Design and Features of the Saint Laurent Muse Bag
The YSL Muse bag is bowler-shaped with a domed top and flat base. It includes front stitching that creates a subtle “Y” and metal lock hardware. It also has a zipper top closure and handles on either side, attached using metal rings. All YSL Muse bags have the following features:
- Front whipstitching in the shape of a “Y”
- Two-way zip closure
- Metal ring and rivet accents
- Satin or suede lining
- Protective metal feet
- Detachable padlock keychain
The leather top handles have a strap drop of 6” to 7” (depending on the bag size), allowing you to carry the Muse as a shoulder bag or an arm bag. The dimensions for each of the three bags are as follows:
- YSL Muse Medium Bag: 10” x 11” x 4”
- YSL Muse Large Bag: 11” x 17” x 5”
- YSL Muse Oversized Bag: 14” x 18” x 6”
The Muse Two is different than the original version, as it resembles more of a satchel. It has a somewhat slouchy structure, and its main compartment is divided in two by a zipper pouch and a hook fastener that secures the flap. Saint Laurent crafted the Muse Two in a patchwork style combining leather panels sewn onto canvas, giving the bag an edgy and flexible appearance. All of the YSL Muse Two bags have the following features:
- Protective metal feet
- Flap closure with a hook fastener
- Interior zip pouch
- Metal rivet accents
Like the YSL Muse, the single top handle on the Muse Two has enough of a strap drop (5.5” to 6”) to allow you to carry it on your arm or shoulder. YSL also released a messenger bag version of the Muse Two with an adjustable nylon crossbody strap with an 18” drop. The dimensions for each of the YSL Muse Two bags are as follows:
- YSL Muse Two Medium Bag: 12.2” x 9.4” x 5.9”
- YSL Muse Two Large Bag: 15” x 11” x 6.6”
- YSL Muse Two Messenger Bag: 12” x 8.75” x 4.25”
Materials and Craftsmanship of the Saint Laurent Muse Bag
Saint Laurent employs expert artisans in their Italian factory to make their handbags using the highest quality materials. Over the years, the Muse handbag has come in large various materials and colorways. Most of the bags come in soft calfskin leather — and the Muse Two incorporates canvas — but other materials have included lambskin, ostrich, tweed, straw and calf hair. Finishings comprise embossed leather (in crocodile, lizard, stingray and alligator), metallic, suede, patent leather, studded, woven and grained leather. As far as colors go, take your pick. Neutrals like ivory, black and brown are most common, though collectors can find these bags in bright blue, bubblegum pink, metallic gold, leopard print and more.
The House usually lines the interiors of the Muse bags in either satin or suede. The Muse Two bags primarily have canvas lining, though the brand also lines them in suede. Most bags have bronze rings and rivets for the hardware, though some have metal accents in silver or gold tones.
The Saint Laurent Muse Bag’s Value and Collectibility
Saint Laurent is known for creating beautiful bags that last for years when cared for appropriately. Because the Muse collection was so popular and in production for so many years, you’ll find plenty of options when looking for one on the resale market. In early 2021, you could find a pre-loved Muse bag for an average of $400, while Muse Two Cabas totes often fetch more than $1,100 on the resale market.