I’d consider myself a handbag addict. I love a pretty purse and have a handful of beautiful ones in my collection. However, I’m one of those handbag lovers who likes the lesser-known brands. I also rather carry a bag that isn’t well-known or carried by everyone else. Enter Moreau Paris and the Celestin Tote.
Sadly, at the time of my finally getting around to writing this review, the Celestin tote has been discontinued by Moreau. It’s unfortunate because it’s such a classic and user-friendly style, that’s also affordable. However, there are plenty of Moreau Paris Celestin totes on the secondary market… and they’re worth it! So definitely do your due-diligence and try to find one second-hand.
If you’re looking to purchase a new style, check out the Moreau Saint Tropez Tote style.
Once upon a time, Goyard used to be a lesser-known brand here in the states, but that has since changed. I hardly ever carry my Goyard tote anymore, and instead reach for my Moreau Paris Celestin Tote.
Chances are you’ve seen Moreau bags, especially if you live in Houston (we have the only stateside store!). They look a bit similar to Goyard, and feature a distinct pattern. Whenever I use my Celestin tote, people often ask me if it’s a Goyard. And the answer is “no and it’s better”. Let me tell you why.
Moreau Paris Celestin Tote Review
Founded in the late 1800s, Maison Moreau originated as a luxury luggage maker. The brand was reborn in 2011, and opened a storefront in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. The iconic Moreau pattern was created by Maison, inspired by intertwined wicker stems that create baskets and other wicker braided goods.
Moreau Paris now has 10 flagship stores around the world, with one in Paris, Houston, a few in Mexico and Japan.
Quality
The Moreau Paris Celestin Tote is a leather and coated canvas bag that’s similar looking to styles by other well-known brands like Louis Vuitton and Goyard. However, that’s where the similarities end.
Moreau Paris continues to employ hand-sewn seams and handles. The stitching is a wide contrast stitch all over the bag. Not many luxury handbag makers still employ this method – Hermes is one of the only remaining ones to continue such craftsmanship.
When I initially looked at the bags in store, I was surprised by how the Celestin tote seemed much more durable, higher-quality and overall a great luxury bag for the price point. At the time, I’d had my Goyard Artois tote for around two years. To be honest for the price, the wear and tear on my Artois has been disappointing.
Moreau handles feel much stronger and reinforced to that of Goyard. Perhaps it’s the continued use of hand-sewn seams. The handles of my Celestin tote are made of calfskin, and just seem particularly more reinforced in attachment to the tote than on my Goyard.
The Jacquard fabric is durable and resistant to light rain or spills. I’ve simply wiped it off with a damp paper towel and had no issue. The interior is extremely roomy. It features an internal slip pocket to hold valuables, and the overall bag is super lightweight. It’s unlined, which I actually really like because I’m not worried about ruining the inside if something were to spill or leak. Plus I love the interior color. This is one of those bags that can be folded up in a suitcase or stuffed in a small space, and once removed it retains its original shape.
I have the small (PM) size and it’s the perfect size. I regularly carry my wallet, sunglasses, phone and my agenda. Sometimes I also throw in one of Olivia’s bottle and some snacks, plus a needlepoint project bag.
I’ve carried my Moreau Paris Celestin tote on and off for the better part of two years, and it still looks like new! I love the beautiful yellow calfskin leather color and the construction is impeccable. The handles have no creasing and still hold their shape (and stand up!) after years of use, whereas my Goyard Artois handles fall to one side and have huge creases from usage.
My only minor complaint in reviewing the Moreau Paris Celestin tote is that it does not have a snap or zipper closure. The Artois has a zipper. Instead the Celestin tote features two leather laces to cinch the bag closed. It’s a closure option, but not a fail-safe for keeping things from falling out.
Look for them on the secondary market, for about $1,000 or less.
Customer Service
Truly a black and white difference in customer service at the Moreau Paris store in Houston compared to a variety of luxury stores I’ve shopped at for handbags. The staff is so sweet, attentive and actually act like they care.
I will never forget our experience at the Goyard store in San Francisco – it was all I had talked about for months, I was so excited to visit, and the employees very clearly did not want to be helping us, even if they were making an expensive sale. Plus everything at Goyard had an upcharge. Want a different color? A bigger style? Monogram? Mongram in this specific color? All more $$. To be honest it was just such a turnoff on the entire experience. And something I think about every time I look at my Goyard tote.
That’s not to say Moreau doesn’t charge more for different sizes of their bags or different leather options, but they just don’t make you feel like idiots. They’re helpful and willing to pull out each size bag, colorway and talk about each of the styles. Plus, I would say for the craftsmanship and quality, the bags are priced really well.
My Celestin tote is hand painted with my initials and I love it so much. It’s an additional cost, but again, seemed considerably reasonable compared to Goyard.
If you’re not local to Houston, reach out to the Moreau Paris boutique here in Houston and let them know what styles you’re interested in. They’re great about sending along photos and deals via text or email!
Why I Love my Celestin Tote
Well that was long-winded Moreau Paris Celestin Tote review… but can you tell I love this bag? It’s one of my favorites in my handbag collection. I use it quite often. And even now with Olivia, I still carry it to appointments or days out with her so I can fit more inside.
The brand very clearly has my heart, because I now own three handbags, a wallet ,and a card case. My mom equally loves Moreau as well, as she just recently treated herself to a Vincennes tote. I use the Ultra Mini Zipi wallet daily, and lately carry my newest addition, the Suite Junior crossbody handbag in blue.
I truly love that Moreau Paris is lesser-known and not as pretentious as its counterparts. The quality is topnotch and the designs are classic, but still wearable for a variety of age groups. As someone who is less concerned with brand popularity and celebrity endorsements (I want a unique handbag that not everyone is carrying!), I love my Moreau Paris bags, and will continue to be a loyal customer.
Looking for more reviews? Check out the following: Veja Espalar review; Sarah Flint flats review; and my Hermes belt kit unboxing and review.
