Thanks to Pharrell Williams, Louis Vuitton Menswear Debut Shakes Paris with Star Power and Iconic Reinventions
Pharrell Williams' Louis Vuitton menswear debut was a headline-stealer even before the first LV sneaker graced the catwalk. Thanks to the Rihanna-starring campaign, postcard-themed invites, and the gossip mill, the anticipation for this star-studded fashion extravaganza was sky-high. The Louis Vuitton fashion show was the event of the season, with Pharrell taking the reins after the late Virgil Abloh. It was a moment that offered a tantalizing glimpse into the future of this luxury fashion powerhouse.
Nestled on Paris' iconic Pont Neuf, overlooking the Seine, the show began with a model emerging through a live orchestra, clad in a boxy, neutral-colored suit jacket paired with tailored shorts. This minimalist look was a prelude to the diverse and intricate outfits that followed, all within the realm of wearability. The collection juxtaposed sharply tailored garments with relaxed, baggy pieces, while pearls added a touch of Pharrell's signature style. But the true focus of the collection was on reimagining Louis Vuitton's iconic Damier print, a hint Williams dropped in pre-show interviews and further emphasized in the stunning Rihanna campaign.
"I knew that I wanted to really lean into the Damier, something that hadn't had such a great concentration in it, and we did so by using the Damier as a platform and as a new artistic discipline, and we have some really interesting expressions," Pharrell told WWD.
Bags became the focal point, ranging from petite crossbody companions to massive trunks that made their grand entrance down the runway. Pharrell opted for Louis Vuitton's signature epi leather, breaking away from the popular monogram canvas, making a bold statement in true Pharrell fashion. The runway also witnessed the presence of "LV Lovers" graphics, newsboy caps, round eyewear, and shoes adorned with striking designs on the soles. Pharrell's multidimensional expertise, honed through collaborations with visionary Nigo and his creative work at Chanel, infused every fiber of Louis Vuitton menswear. It was an experience that transcended mere clothing.
As the show reached its crescendo, Pharrell, visibly moved, expressed his heartfelt gratitude against the twinkling backdrop of Paris. Bedecked in a vibrant pixelated two-piece suit, he unveiled the spring/summer 2024 collection, paying homage to the city of love with the Maison's reinvigorated emblem. The front row was a constellation of stars, with power couple Beyoncé and Jay-Z enthralling onlookers in their fashionable Louis Vuitton ensembles, seated alongside the ever-stylish Zendaya and the esteemed CEO of LVMH, Bernard Arnault. The pregnant Rihanna and A$AP Rocky graced the event with coordinated denim looks that set cameras flashing.
The guest list continued to sparkle, with Jared Leto positioned beside the captivating Kim Kardashian, both donning eye-catching attire that demanded attention. Latin sensations J Balvin and Maluma added their own vibrant energy to the Paris fashion show, effortlessly owning their colorful ensembles. The roster of attendees read like a who's who in the entertainment world, featuring Anitta, Sebastián Yatra, John Boyega, Willow and Jaden Smith, Riz Ahmed, Lenny Kravitz, Miranda Kerr, Lewis Hamilton, Quavo, Megan Thee Stallion, and Kelly Rowland, among countless others.
Pharrell's appointment as the creative director, following in the footsteps of the late Virgil Abloh, marked a groundbreaking moment as a Black man seizing the throne of the crown jewel in the LVMH portfolio. In Pharrell's own words, this role isn't just about ruling; it's about being a perpetual student. Gratitude and ambition entwined, he cherishes his castle, with the Seine River acting as his moat, as he embarks on a transformative journey to redefine the world of Louis Vuitton menswear.
