Trunk Diaries

Tall and sturdy, built with durable beech or teak wood, adorned by brass hardware and crafted to perfection — nothing says regal like a vintage trunk. Designed as objects of utility either as travel accompaniments or pieces of contemporary art that accentuate beautiful spaces, you can have one commissioned for every purpose. From simple jewellery boxes to watch holders, bespoke travel luggage and exquisite bar cabinets — premium trunks that were once synonymous with erstwhile royalty and European elite are the essential luxury accessories of the well-heeled today. 

No conversation on luxury trunks can be complete without the mention of the Parisian luggage and accessories brand, Goyard. The two centuries-old premium label boasts of a clientele that features the Maharaja of Kapurthala, the Rockefellers, the Romanovs, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and Karl Lagerfeld among several others. What started out in 1792 as a luggage maker, for transporting fragile furniture and fashion accessories has today expanded to all forms of travel goods, handbags, pet accessories and special custom-made orders. The signature-chevron patterned canvas continues to enjoy the patronage of the world’s wealthiest. You can have your own trunk customised right from the canvas to the colours of the pattern and the layout for Rs.400,000 and above. 

While most luxury trunk makers draw upon the timeless appeal of their rich heritage in their products, another Paris-based brand, TT Trunks, seamlessly combines traditional art with a contemporary feel. “While competitors bet on tradition, travel and the 19th century spirit, we chose a 21st century vision, centered on mobility, urban lifestyle and contemporary products,” says CEO and founder, Julien Trossat. One of its signature trunks is the MillesimeT512, which is a compact bar on wheels. One of its more popular ones is the Darth Trunk, designed for Star Wars fans. You can have your initial monogrammed on a custom trunk or leather box that could hold your jewellery, watches, cigars, spirits and others for Rs.200,000-Rs.90 lakh. 

But you don’t have to book your tickets to France right away, you can have your very own bespoke trunk manufactured right here in the city of Jaipur. Founded by brothers Paritosh and Priyank Mehta, this Indian luxury trunk maker is not to be taken lightly. From royal palaces to heritage hotels and homes of Bollywood personalities, Trunks Company has found patronage among India’s elite and evolved into a label of repute over the past eight years. “Our trunks handcrafted in very small numbers are designed for those distinguished few, who look beyond labels to express themselves,” describes Paritosh. You can place an order for a tiny pen trunk, jewellery trunk or a bigger box that beholds your treasured wine collection or music system. And all this can be yours for anything from Rs.40,000-Rs.10 lakh. 

So do you have a prized object that needs safekeeping during your travels or a space that could be enhanced with a flat-top trunk? We assure you the wait for a bespoke piece of luxury from these labels is worth it.