After several months of anticipation following his appointment as the artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s men’s collection, all eyes were on the Pont Neuf this Tuesday for one of the most eagerly awaited events of Paris Men’s Fashion Week: Pharrell Williams’ first show for Louis Vuitton. An XXL show that unveiled the new DNA of the luxury house, and also marked the beginning of a week dedicated to the creator, with various events organized in connection with his own brands. Between exhibitions, pop-up stores, and cafés, Pharrell Williams is everywhere, emphasizing his legitimacy and entrée into the arena of top designers.
Pharrell Williams’ First Louis Vuitton Show: Ode to Paris and Love
Paris, joy, and love. These are the three words that orchestrated Pharrell Williams’ first show as Louis Vuitton’s men’s artistic director. What better way to celebrate the city of love than to hold his show on the iconic Pont Neuf, just steps away from the luxury house’s headquarters.
Beyond this postcard-like setting, which led to a stunning invitation accompanied by a stained glass window depicting it, the Pont Neuf holds significant meaning for the creator, a native of Virginia now working in Paris. This place carries a whole symbolism, representing a moment of transition, passage, and evolution, highlighted by a short video released ahead of Pharrell Williams’ show, emphasizing the importance of believing and taking the leap to succeed.
The iconic Louis Vuitton checkerboard covered this mythical place, like a golden jewel box whose reflection extended onto the Seine, in prime view. Upon arrival, another Parisian icon served as a photocall: the mythical Parisian kiosk, but covered with the Louis Vuitton monogram! Details matter.
Prestigious Guests and a Tribute to Craftsmanship at Pharrell Williams’ Show
In this atmosphere bathed in the capital’s essence, Pharrell Williams’ show brought forth the new DNA of the luxury house Louis Vuitton. To its heritage and historical image, was added the personality of the multidisciplinary creator.
A fusion of worlds, which was also reflected in the guests. The rows saw a blend of the haute couture world and the music scene, dear to him. All in the spirit of an XXL show, with a giant screen and the presence of an orchestra accompanied by an energizing Gospel choir, chanting the word “Joy” through a song collaborated with the artist. A show that took on American show-like proportions, with a private concert by Pharrell Williams and Jay-Z as the after-show.
The latter was notably part of the five-star guest list. Alongside him, we spotted Beyoncé, A$AP Rocky, Zendaya, Naomi Campbell, Kim Kardashian, Jared Leto, Lenny Kravitz, Lewis Hamilton… A very selective front row, echoing the collection’s teaser a few days before Pharrell Williams’ show, featuring an Instagram post of him posing in front of a giant Rihanna poster wearing the new pieces. She was also present at the show, all dressed in Louis Vuitton.
Pharrell Williams’ show was an opportunity for him to gather and thank the people who have been by his side these past years. But also, to celebrate craftsmanship, notably by bringing all the seamstresses onto the catwalk, without whom the pieces could not come to life. A heartwarming gesture, anchoring in the new artistic director’s vision currently taking shape.
What to Remember from Pharrell Williams’ Show?
Titled “Lovers”, Pharrell Williams’ first show unveiled 75 looks. Along with trunks presented on golf carts navigating the catwalk among the walking models.
The “Damouflage”, a Blend of Camouflage and Checkerboard, the New Louis Vuitton Pattern
Among the highlights of this first collection, the new pattern, combining the iconic Louis Vuitton checkerboard with the creator’s beloved camouflage, took over numerous fabrics. Jackets, pants, slippers, and even strollers, as posted on Instagram following Pharrell Williams’ show, this “damouflage” is one of the collection’s red threads, even covering the gospel choir’s dresses.
This pixelated / Minecraft-inspired pattern comes in several colors, either tone-on-tone or more contrasting.
Fabric Effects Between Leather, Oilcloth, and Fur Inserts
Regarding fabrics, we observed the use of more or less rigid leathers for jackets, oilcloth effect fabrics in pants, reflective material inserts, fur, and denim. Materials crafted into strong, characterful pieces, between dandy and streetwear. Chic modernizes with three-piece suits paired with shorts or a kilt variant. The cuts feature rounded corners or pleats to create a new silhouette.
Bags, too, have been redesigned, with the iconic Speedy sporting primary colors. We discover models worn as belts, hand-held, over the shoulder, or on the back. The shapes are playful, ranging from minimalism to maximalism.
Socks rise to the knees, paired with loafers or flat Mary Janes. Shoes, slippers, and high leather boots complete Pharrell Williams’ show looks.
Detail is the keyword in the pieces and combinations, featuring rhinestones and pearls, completely covering a sneaker or creating wording touches.
Pearl necklaces and bracelets are the cherry on the cake, with a few models of round glasses. While berets are adorned with pins, similar to jackets accessorized with golden brooches. The ushanka makes its comeback alongside oversized beanies.
The beiges, khakis, forest greens, browns, blacks, and jeans marry with the pop of primary colors, symbols of Pharrell Williams’ show. Present in an assertive and frank manner, they match oversized varsity jackets, graphic shawls, or rugby polos and Vuitton-branded football jerseys.
The collection proves to be the alliance of two worlds and two styles. On one side, the historical cuts and patterns of the Louis Vuitton house, and on the other, the creator’s streetwear mood. A bold combination, yet quite well held and harmonious in its own way, and worn by both men and women as the show demonstrated.
How Does Fashion Week Turn into Pharrell Williams Week?
For his debut in the big leagues, the creator doesn’t stop at his show. Indeed, throughout the week, the new artistic director of Louis Vuitton spreads his universe, not only the one he’s starting to build alongside the brand.
“Just Phriends” Pharrell Williams’ Free Exhibition and Auction
Taking place from June 20 to 24 in a private mansion at 8 Avenue de Matignon, in Paris’ 8th arrondissement, the exhibition, conceived alongside Sarah Andelman, honors artworks that will later be auctioned off through the creator’s auction house, Joppiter.
Featuring a total of 68 works, the exhibition showcases the work of artists like JR, as well as pieces from fashion houses, including Louis Vuitton. The proceeds from the auction, including the online portion extending until June 27, will benefit the Black Ambition association.
The Samba Café: Immersion in Pharrell Williams and Adidas’ New Collaboration
Following Pharrell Williams’ Louis Vuitton-colored show, one of the creator’s own brands gets a chance to shine during Fashion Week, in a pop-up store and café. Humanrace has once again partnered with Adidas to design a new sneaker model, the Humanrace Samba.
The concept store The Broken Arm, at 12 Rue de Perrée, has thus taken on the collaboration’s colors to present
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