The most anticipated show of Paris Fashion Week not only lived up to every fashion editors’ and bloggers’ expectations, but deeply exceeded them. Nicolas Ghesquière’s debut collection for Louis Vuitton on Wednesday is a stark contrast from the lavish, romantic shows of his predecessor, Marc Jacobs. There were no carousels, escalators, or trains but instead a minimalist runway where the clothes spoke boldly to the audience. Ghesquière,who hails from Balenciaga, adapted his modernist aesthetic for the Louis Vuitton woman, with a Seventies color palette, sharp lines, and waist accentuating pieces. Highlights include ensembles with mixed fabrics, such as a leather dress with a tweed diagonal panel; multi-tonal leggings; and belted coats, dresses, and tops. The collection is sophisticated as much as it is functional and feminist, making it appropriate for every type of woman – from the careerist to the globetrotter frequently depicted in LV ad campaigns. In this way, Ghesquière continues Jacobs’s legacy but does so through a real world lens.
Then there were the bags with color blocked, quilted, and Seventies-inspired patterned designs. Meanwhile, the iconic LV logo was used sparingly. As usual, I prefer the bags without the emblems, such as the blue and black color blocked satchel.
Overall, this was one of the best shows from PFW and I’m looking forward to future collections from Ghesquière.
*Photos courtesy of NOWFASHION and Vogue
