Louis Vuitton is for sure one of if not THE most known luxury brand worldwide and contributes immensely to the success of the giant luxury imperium LVMH. Louis Vuitton inspires people through creative, dynamic designs shown by the most successful models like Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner and inspires through collaborations as recently with Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. There is no doubt that Louis Vuitton is always up for new surprises and this one might have been one of the biggest ones yet: Appointing Pharrell Williams as its new Men’s creative director.
By doing so, Williams steps in the huge shoes of late Virgil Abloh which have not been filled by Louis Vuitton for over a year after his passing.
I remember randomly scrolling through my Instagram feed when I saw the above tagged post by Louis Vuitton announcing their new appointment of the position. And let me tell you, this was the most exciting news and surprising news for me that day – no. that week! I would have never guessed this move by LV, but after doing a little research it actually makes a lot of sense.
Williams, being a rapper, singer, songwriter, producer and designer, is definitely a multi-talent and is being described in the official statement as a “visionary” and “cultural global icon.” All very good attributes for a creative director. Moreover, he is a well-known public figure, known for his urban, trendy streetstyle and he will definitely draw attention to the brand. According to Forbes magazine. especially younger Generation and Gen Y could be further interested in the designs led by Williams and he could be a great source of modern, innovative designs.
We all know, saw (and probably bought???) Williams’ collaboration with Adidas. With that project he proved that he is able to add his own personal touch in a very recognizable way even on traditional products. Moreover, he created Ice Cream Footwear and Billionaire Boy Club and partnered with Moncler before.
What I personally did not now before was that this is not even his first time at Louis Vuitton; no, he already proved his design skills in collaborations for sunglasses in 2004 and 2008! AND he actually was named “Best Dressed Man in the World” by Esquire in 2005.
If you ask me, these are all indications for a very bright future of Williams at Louis Vuitton. Virgil Abloh was one of a kind and he cannot and won’t be replaced and Williams is not a replacement; he is a new chapter of the brand. I think his history and expertise in various aspects as design, art, music and more will be great input for Louis Vuitton to reach and satisfy new generations of customers who pay special attention to their overall experience with a brand.
I cannot wait for Pharrell Williams’ debut collection launching in June 2023 during Paris Fashion Week. I am sure, through, that he will make us very happy (pun intended)!