Last night, Pharrell Williams' long-awaited debut show as Louis Vuitton's Creative Director took place at Paris Fashion Week, and it's fair to say that it left quite an impression. The star-studded affair happened at Pont Neuf bridge in Paris and delivered what can only be described as a spectacle for the ages. A total of 1,750 guests attended the show, with A-list fashion icons such as Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, Zendaya, and many more all in attendance, each ready to witness what Pharrell Williams and his extensive team had in store.
From the beginning, a distinct focus was placed on the entire splendor of the event. Guests were taken by boat from Musée d’Orsay to the bridge, enjoying views of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower along the way. Regarding the bridge itself, it was adorned with Louis Vuitton’s signature Damier check in a golden hue, reinforcing the significance of the occasion. The golden rays also alluded to the central motif of the collection - the sun.
As the sun set on its Parisian backdrop, an orchestral arrangement took centre stage. The ensemble began to perform music composed by Pharrell himself, later to be accompanied by the gospel choir Voice of Fire - comparable to Kanye West's Sunday Service ventures. Serving as a foundation for the apparel, Louis Vuitton's Damier check house code graced the catwalk with a total of 71 new pieces, each blending classic heritage with a futuristic vision. The previews on the newly-created @skateboard Instagram page showcased pixelated camo looks, which arguably became one of the collection's distinctive features. Dubbed the "Damoflage" pattern, this latest design was reportedly inspired by 8-bit Atari graphics, although many online users were quick to draw comparisons to the graphical aesthetic of the popular game Minecraft .
The "Damoflage" pattern graced just about everything in the range, from floor-length trench coats and leather bombers all the way to fur jackets and oversized scarves. Other notable inclusions based themselves around the separate motif of "LVERS." Memories of a high school sweetheart led Skateboard P to deliver elements of varsity and collegiate style, each embellished with the "LV Lovers" print. The print itself exists as a direct nod to his home state's "Virginia is For Lovers" slogan and seeks to tie in the creative director's own personal experiences within the collection.
Naturally, it wouldn't have been a Louis Vuitton catwalk show without a wide array of accessories available. Rows of monogrammed trunks were promptly transported up and down the runway via blacked-out golf buggies, including a notable addition made entirely from what seems to be copper. The 'Speedy' handbag also received a contemporary update, personally chosen by Pharrell for its association with "the hustling spirit of Canal Street in Lower Manhattan." The latest version features a supple leather construction, making it more suitable for everyday use compared to some of its sturdier predecessors.
To conclude the night, attendees of the after-party were treated to performances by both Pharrell and Jay-Z, as they each delivered some of their most popular hits well into the late hours. Despite the somewhat polarising opinions circulating on social media regarding the show, it is difficult to deny the skill with which Pharrell and his team captured the essence of the renowned French fashion house, especially considering the significant legacy left behind by the late and esteemed Virgil Abloh. Be sure to watch the full show on YouTube below! In other industry news, Nike announces its Air Max-themed Airphoria Universe in Fortnite .
