Celine’s Newest It Bag: The Luggage Smile Tote

Celine is smiling again—literally. The house just introduced the Luggage Smile Tote, a modern twist on one of its most iconic designs: the original Luggage Tote. As part of the debut of new creative director Michael Rider, this reimagined silhouette celebrates Celine’s heritage while also ushering in a fresh new chapter.

For luxury shoppers and collectors alike, this is a moment worth noting. Whether you’re drawn to the brand-new Smile Tote or the original versions now thriving on the resale market, there’s a lot to smile about.

A Refreshed Take on a Classic

The Luggage Smile Tote keeps the core DNA of the original: the flared side panels, the curved front zipper that forms a “face,” and Celine’s understated sophistication. But Rider’s version introduces a few key updates that make it feel whimsical and distinctly of-the-moment.

The Smile Tote’s proportions are now wider and slightly shorter, creating an east-west profile that feels modern and more wearable day-to-day. The lines are softer, the structure less rigid, and the leather. And a supple shiny lambskin adds a touch of fluidity compared to the older drummed calfskin used in the original. And of course, the upward curved ends of the zipper mimics a real smile, injecting a sense of joy and happiness into this bag.

It’s a subtle evolution, but a meaningful one. The Smile Tote keeps what we loved, while relaxing the edges just enough to feel new.

How It Compares to the Original

The original Luggage Tote defined the early 2010s “It bag” era, and Rider’s update nods to that legacy while modernizing the proportions and materials.

Here’s how they differ:

• Shape: The Smile Tote is wider and less boxy, giving it a more contemporary silhouette. It feels more similar to other popular bag styles on the market like the Margaux and the Birkin.

• Structure: The new version is softer and lighter, while the original was highly structured and architectural. This makes sense given the more minimal nature of many luxury lovers today.

• Leather: Lambskin replaces the original’s tougher grained calfskin—beautiful, but more delicate. Keep in mind that the flat version remains in calfskin.

• Mood: The Smile Tote embraces the playful “face” element rather than hiding it. It’s confident and self-aware, the kind of wink that makes luxury fun again. 

Sizes, Materials, Colors, and Pricing

At launch, the core Luggage Smile Tote is available in two sizes:

• Medium — $4,350

• Large — $5,200

Both versions are crafted in shiny lambskin and feature rolled top handles, a zip-top closure, and the signature “smile” front pocket. Early colors include black and dark brown, so it appears Celine is keeping producting tight until they can identify true demand for this style. 

For size reference, the Medium Smile Tote measures approximately 14.2 inches long, 6.3 inches high, and 8.7 inches deep. And the Large Smile Tote is 3 inches longer, measuring 17.3 inches long, 10.6 inches high, and 7.9 inches deep.

There's also a flat, rectangular version with a thinner, more shallow depth. It's available in neutral black and brown shades of glossy calfskin, as well as oxide blue, and citrus yellow—an elegant palette that feels timeless yet slightly playful. It's important to note that this variation also has a lower pricepoint of $2,100. 

Expect more variations in coming months, likely including different sizes, mixed leathers/materials, and new limited-edition hues, as Celine builds momentum behind the line.

Why This Matters for Shoppers

This launch isn’t just about a new bag—it’s about a revival. The Smile Tote signals that Celine is once again celebrating one of its most recognizable shapes, and that spotlight tends to ripple through the entire resale market.

If you’ve ever admired the original Luggage Tote, now is a smart time to act. Pristine examples from the Phoebe Philo era—especially in classic colors like black, camel, and beige—are still widely available for under $1,000 on the resale market. Once renewed attention builds, those prices may climb. We expect the same will also happen for phantom totes and trapeze totes, two other similar (and iconic) Celine styles that were popular around the same time.

For buyers who want something brand-new, the Smile Tote offers the same recognizable charm with a smoother, more fashion-forward finish.

The Luxe Loop's POV

We love this move from Celine. The Luggage Smile Tote perfectly bridges nostalgia and novelty—something few brands pull off well. It honors the original while reintroducing it to a new generation of luxury shoppers. And we've seen how well updated reissues really resonate with brand loyalists for styles like the Prada Re-Edition and the Gucci Bamboo bags. It's a winning formula for sure.

At The Luxe Loop, we’re already seeing early signals of renewed demand for the classic Luggage Tote. For shoppers, this means two clear paths:

• Buy new if you love the playful modern updates and want the latest release, and don't mind spending to get it.

• Buy vintage if you want a similar, iconic silhouette, but love the original, and want a great price. 

Either way, both versions embody what makes Celine special: craftsmanship, quiet confidence, and a touch of personality.

Because great design doesn’t just "come back around". Sometimes, it even smiles back at you, too.