Vintage YSL Mombasa Black Velvet Horn Handle Bag | Authentic Preloved

Vintage YSL Mombasa Black Velvet Horn Handle Bag

This vintage Yves Saint Laurent Mombasa bag is one of the most instantly recognisable designs of the Tom Ford era, defined by its sculptural horn-effect handle and soft, gathered velvet body. First introduced for Spring/Summer 2002, the Mombasa became an icon almost overnight, and this black velvet iteration captures everything that made the design so coveted.

Vintage YSL pieces from this period are genuine collector's items. The Mombasa in particular is prized for its bold, architectural handle, a design so distinctive it's still referenced in contemporary accessories today. The rigid frame top and pleated velvet body give it real presence, while the compact proportions keep it wonderfully wearable.

Buying preloved YSL through resale is one of the only ways to access this specific era of the house's design history, long before the brand's name changed and its aesthetic shifted. This Mombasa comes complete with its original YSL dust bag, adding a lovely finishing touch for anyone building a vintage designer collection.

For anyone hunting for a used YSL piece with genuine fashion history behind it, this Mombasa is a rare find: sculptural, characterful, and unmistakably Tom Ford.

Our Price: £695

Product Information

• Brand: Yves Saint Laurent (by Tom Ford)
• Model: Mombasa
• Colour: Black velvet with black horn-effect handle
• Material: Velvet body, resin handle, silver-tone hardware
• Hardware: Silver-tone frame closure and handle fittings
• Closure: Rigid frame top with push clasp
• Strap: Fixed curved top handle
• Interior: Fully lined
• Origin: Made in Italy
• Includes: Original YSL dust bag

Measurements

• Width: 24cm
• Height: 20cm
• Depth: 13cm
• Handle Drop: 8cm

Fits: Phone, cardholder, lipstick, and small evening essentials.

Condition

This vintage Mombasa is in good preloved condition overall, with the velvet body retaining its rich black colour and soft pile throughout the main panels. As pictured, there is visible wear to the base of the bag, consistent with genuine vintage use, along with light general marking to the velvet elsewhere. The silver-tone hardware and horn-effect handle remain in good structural condition with only light surface wear. The frame closure functions smoothly, and the interior lining is clean.

Authenticity

Every piece at Luxury Resale Concierge is carefully inspected prior to listing, with attention paid to stitching, hardware weight and finish, material quality, and interior construction consistent with genuine Yves Saint Laurent production. This bag's proportions, handle design, and hardware are all consistent with authentic YSL manufacture from the Tom Ford era.

Why We Love It

The Mombasa is one of those rare bags that instantly signals its era. Tom Ford's horn-inspired handle remains one of the most referenced design details in modern accessories, and this velvet version has a softness that balances the bag's otherwise bold silhouette. For anyone building a collection of used YSL pieces with genuine design significance, this is a wonderful addition.

Styling Notes

Wear this vintage YSL bag with tailoring for an evening event, or let its sculptural handle add drama to a simple black dress. The velvet texture and horn-effect handle pair beautifully with jewel tones and classic black and gold, making this preloved YSL piece a genuine statement addition to any wardrobe.