Pharrell Williams made a grand entrance as the new creative director of menswear at Louis Vuitton with a spectacular show on Paris' historic Pont Neuf bridge. The highly anticipated debut collection showcased Pharrell's unique style, blending retro hip-hop influences with contemporary tailoring and bold branding.
Theme's on display echoed the same threads of the Virginia native's own, eclectic syle: A bold combination of vintage looks from the past reimagined for the future.
I'm sure there were some smug smiles and sighs of relief internally at LVMH following this well received catwalk debut.
Personally, I wasn't sure about Williams being given the top job at LV - not because I doubt the man's talent and creativity - more because I doubt the authenticity of some of these moves *cough* Lanvin *cough* and always wonder how much of it is based on profile rather than creative talent. Louis Vuitton have clearly backed their man though and that has allowed Pharrell to prove them right to believe in his vision.
The runway event paid tribute to the late Virgil Abloh, featuring a gold Damier-print runway and a sky filled with coral streaks. The collection itself was a mix of baggy yet refined clothing, with standout pieces like fur-trimmed aviator jackets, berets, and loafers. The signature Louis Vuitton Damier pattern was reimagined in high-visibility black and yellow, dubbed "Damoflage," reflecting Pharrell's streetwear roots.
Celebrities like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Rihanna graced the front row, while Pharrell's Voices of Fire choir provided a rousing gospel soundtrack. Despite concerns about hiring a celebrity designer, Pharrell proved he could disrupt the fashion world with a 21st-century approach, staying true to the "codes of the house" while adding his own flair.
Observations:
First of all, let's clear the air on something. This is a London-based blog and I'm of a generation that will NEVER tolerate boot-cut jeans. Personally, I'm couldn't see myself wearing any of the kilts either or the wellies. Notwithstanding the price, nobody can convince me that rubber boots are stylish. Not for me.
What I DID like though is how they have reimagined the LV checkerboard. I love the high quality materials popping off the runway in interesting colourways and designs.
The pixellated pieces are amazing, just my taste. Perhaps these are a nod to Loewe, influenced by their outstanding Summer 2023 collection.
I'm liking the range of bags as well, being a duffle-bag boy at heart.
We do need to talk about this $1,000,000 bag though. I get that it's a marketing ploy and it will hopefully be sold to a museum with the proceeds going towards something useful - that's the only reason I can see for it to exist.
Featuring crocodile leather and adorned with a chunky gold chain and diamond padlock - I cannot imagine the value of whatever you are carrying inside this bag. It had better be your newborn child or the nuclear football because $1m is ridiculous.
Lots of the show and the looks I either liked, loved or appreciate the creativity - This came off as vulgar, to me personally. Would be good to know how other people feel about this.
overall I'm excited to see what direction Pharrell will take LV in. Hearing unreleased Clipse bangers ring out over the runway while the fashion world oohs and aahs at couture streetwear was not something I saw coming, but I am so here for it.