How Rimowa Turned Suitcases Into Luxury Icons

After a fire in its factory left only aluminum, Rimowa soon created an icon of luxury travel.

Published on Apr 21, 2025

From airport lounges to cobblestone alleys across the globe, a Rimowa luggage is unmistakable.

The sleek grooves of its aluminum shells are more than just a status symbol—they're a testament to engineering, elegance, and endurance. Whether seen rolling beside jet-setting executives or clutched by fashion icons dashing between shows, Rimowa has cemented itself as the definitive name in luxury luggage. Below, discover the storied history and signature pieces that define Rimowa’s enduring legacy.

The History of Rimowa

Rimowa's story began in Cologne, Germany, in 1898, when Paul Morszeck founded the company under the name “Kofferfabrik Paul Morszeck.” Originally a maker of classic wooden trunks, the brand quickly earned a reputation for quality craftsmanship. But it wasn’t until a devastating factory fire in the 1930s that the brand's signature aesthetic was born.

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Portrait of Paul Morszeck (PHOTO: Rimowa website).

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Rimowa Workshop in 1912 (PHOTO: Rimowa website).

In the aftermath of the fire, aluminum was the only material left relatively unscathed. Inspired by the resilience of this lightweight metal and the demands of a new era of air travel, Morszeck’s son, Richard Morszeck, introduced Rimowa’s first aluminum suitcase in 1937. The design—ribbed for durability and aerodynamic function—would go on to become one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the travel industry.

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Hand Wardrobe Trunk (PHOTO: Rimowa website).

Rimowa’s name, a portmanteau of Richard Morszeck Warenzeichen (or “trademark”), became official in 1950. That year, the brand added the now-iconic grooves to its aluminum shell. Over the following decades, the brand became synonymous with luxury travel, especially among filmmakers, photographers, and globetrotters who needed gear that could endure rough handling and harsh climates.

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Grooved Hand-Carry Case (PHOTO: Rimowa website).

Fast forward to the 21st century: Rimowa joined the LVMH group in 2016, under the guidance of Alexandre Arnault, who rebranded the heritage house with a modern sensibility. With collaborations ranging from Supreme to Dior, and an ever-growing presence on fashion week runways and celebrity Instagrams, Rimowa evolved into more than just a travel companion—it became a cultural icon.

Iconic Rimowa Luggage

Whether you prefer the classic heft of aluminum or the featherlight feel of polycarbonate, Rimowa offers a line for every kind of traveler. Each collection brings together German precision, modern aesthetics, and unmistakable sophistication. Below, we break down the brand’s most iconic ranges.

The Original

Crafted from high-end anodized aluminum and finished with that signature grooved surface, the Rimowa Original is built to handle everything from runway tarmacs to baggage carousel scrapes with effortless style.

Offered in a range of metallic finishes—from silver and black to rose gold and titanium—the Original is the favorite of purists and design aficionados. The interiors are sleek and functional, complete with flex dividers, mesh compartments, and multi-wheel systems that glide with silent efficiency.

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PHOTO: Rimowa.

Original Cabin, $1430 (approx. P81,098), RIMOWA, rimowa.com

The Classic

The Classic collection is where nostalgia meets innovation. Featuring the same durable aluminum shell as the Original, the Classic line stands out with its riveted corners, high-gloss finish, and retro-inspired leather handles. It’s a loving nod to the golden age of travel—think 1960s Pan Am, long-haul flights in tailored suits, and steamer trunks being loaded by gloved porters.

Though it may look vintage, the Classic is packed with present-day perks: TSA-approved locks, precision engineering, and an updated wheel system for smoother navigation.

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PHOTO: Rimowa.

Classic Cabin, $1525 (approx. P86,486), RIMOWA, rimowa.com

The Essential

If aluminum isn’t your speed, Rimowa’s Essential line offers the same impeccable craftsmanship in a polycarbonate package. Introduced in 2000, the Essential was the first-ever polycarbonate suitcase to hit the premium market.

Available in a rotating palette of sleek colors—from glacier blue to glossy white—the Essential is a favorite among younger travelers, creative professionals, and those who like their style with a splash of color. Don’t let its good looks fool you: this case is built to take a beating. It’s weatherproof, scratch-resistant, and lighter than its aluminum counterparts, making it perfect for weekend jaunts and long-haul adventures alike.

For even more versatility, Rimowa offers the Essential Lite (ultra-lightweight) and the Essential Trunk (ideal for extended travel), each tailored to different needs without compromising on style.

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PHOTO: Rimowa.

Essential Cabin in Gloss Mint Green, $900 (approx. P51,041), RIMOWA, rimowa.com

Celebrities Using Rimowa

A fixture in VIP lounges and street style galleries alike, Rimowa has become the luggage of choice for global superstars. With its blend of heritage and high-tech appeal, it's no surprise that A-list names and brand ambassadors are frequently spotted traveling with these iconic cases.

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Clockwise from top left: Rosé, Rihanna, Anne Curtis, Kim Chiu

Where to Shop Rimowa Luggage in the Philippines

For those based in the Philippines, Rimowa luggage is available at several upscale retail locations. You can find their boutique offerings at Greenbelt 3 in Makati, Shangri-La Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong, Powerplant Mall in Rockwell Center Makati, Solaire Resort in Entertainment City Parañaque, and NUSTAR Resort and Casino in Cebu.

Kat is Preview's Lifestyle Editor, explorer, and occasional rhymer. When not globe-trotting, she's over her computer, writing her next big novel.