Saint Laurent bag: Kate, Loulou, Niki, or Sac de Jour, which one should you choose second-hand?
Posted on July 07 2026
Four models account for the bulk of demand for secondhand Saint Laurent bags: the Kate, the Loulou, the Niki, and the Sac de Jour. They share the same fashion house and the same YSL monogram, but not the same purpose, the same character, or the same buyer profile. Here is how to tell them apart and find the one that suits you.
The Kate: evening sophistication
The Kate is the most "event-ready" of the four. Its compact format, structured flap adorned with the Cassandre monogram, and gold chain make it a piece designed for the evening, or for those who only need the essentials on a daily basis: phone, cards, lipstick, and keys.
Its visual identity
The Kate is primarily recognized by its metal Cassandre monogram, which lies flat on the flap. It comes in a classic version and a Tassel version, with a chain tassel that hangs beneath the logo. It is available in several sizes (Small, Medium, Large), with the Medium being the most popular choice on the secondhand market.
For whom?
The Kate is for you if you are looking for an evening or special occasion bag, if you carry very few items, or if you want an entry-level Saint Laurent bag: Medium versions can be found for between €800 and €1,300 on the secondhand market, depending on the condition and leather.
The Loulou: chic and timeless everyday wear
Launched by Anthony Vaccarello, the Loulou pays tribute to Loulou de la Falaise, a stylist, jewelry designer, and muse to Yves Saint Laurent for over 30 years, who passed away in 2011. Its chevron-quilted leather forming a Y, its sliding metal chain, and its magnetic clasp under the interlaced YSL initials make it the house's current commercial benchmark.
Its visual identity
Where the Kate is structured and formal, the Loulou is supple and relaxed. Its slightly boxy shape, chevron stitching, and metal YSL logo on the flap are immediately recognizable without ever being flashy.
For whom?
The Loulou is the most versatile of the four: it transitions effortlessly from the office to dinner, in Small for a more streamlined look or in Medium for daily use. Secondhand, the Medium in black leather is the most liquid version for resale, ranging from €1,100 to €1,700 depending on condition.
The Niki: unapologetic vintage character
The Niki is the most "rock" of the Saint Laurent bags. Its crinkled, patinated leather, chain, and supple shape give it a deliberately worn-in, casual, almost retro feel, in stark contrast to the graphic rigor of the Sac de Jour or the Kate.
Its visual identity
The Niki is identified by its crinkled leather, which masks daily micro-scratches better than the smooth leathers of the other models. It is the Saint Laurent bag that ages the best with use.
For whom?
The Niki is made for those who want character and a casual vibe without sacrificing quality. Its patinated leather becomes an asset in the secondhand market: a pre-owned piece keeps almost the same look as a new one, which makes buying used particularly smart. Expect to pay between €1,200 and €1,800 for a Medium, depending on condition.
The Sac de Jour: the professional benchmark
Designed by Hedi Slimane and launched in 2013, the Sac de Jour is the most structured and sober of the four. Its accordion sides, clean lines, and padlock make it a work bag designed to last and never go out of style.
Its visual identity
No metal monogram: only a discreet, embossed "Saint Laurent" marks the front. The Sac de Jour embodies quiet luxury, where the quality of the leather and the rigor of the construction speak for themselves rather than the logo. It comes in Nano (22 cm), Baby (26 cm), Small (32 cm), and Large (40 cm).
For whom?
The Sac de Jour is aimed at those who prefer a timeless, versatile bag over an identifiable "it-bag." The Nano remains one of the best-valued pieces in the range on the secondhand market: between €1,100 and €1,600, compared to over €2,000 in boutiques.
Quick comparison: which one is right for you?
| Kate | Loulou | Niki | Sac de Jour | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use | Evening, occasion | Versatile everyday | Casual everyday | Professional |
| Style | Glamorous, structured | Chic, casual | Rock, vintage | Minimalist |
| Logo | Metal Cassandre | Metal YSL | Discreet YSL | Embossed, discreet |
| Key size | Medium | Medium | Medium | Nano or Small |
| Secondhand price | €800 – €1,300 | €1,100 – €1,700 | €1,200 – €1,800 | €1,100 – €1,600 |
What to check before buying secondhand
On a pre-owned Saint Laurent bag, the points to inspect as a priority:
- The chain: on the Loulou and Niki, check for wear on the sliding chain and its leather section, which is often the first area to show fatigue.
- The flap and logo: on the Kate, check the alignment and attachment of the Cassandre monogram, and ensure the presence of the tassel on Tassel versions.
- The lining: on the Sac de Jour, check the inner edge seams, where the lining can detach over time.
- The hardware: gold finishes can oxidize on pieces over 5 years old. A light patina is normal; dark or chipped areas should be reflected in the price.
Our Saint Laurent pieces right now
Every Saint Laurent bag offered by RARR Vintage is authenticated and inspected on these points before being listed online, with a detailed condition grade.