On a captivating Monday evening, the iconic Champs Elysées witnessed a fashion spectacle no less dramatic than the traffic jams portrayed in the legendary movie, Blade Runner. Approximately 5,000 pedestrians and tourists gathered in front of the magnificent new Louis Vuitton building, gracefully standing at number 103 on one of the world’s most prestigious streets.
An Unexpected Transformation
Three months earlier, this grand structure was promised as the new headquarters for Dior, with gray and white dominating its facade, adorned with elegant Dior fabrics. However, in a surprising turn of events, the owner of both Louis Vuitton and Dior, LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault, made the unprecedented decision to entrust the entire building to Louis Vuitton. The brand’s prominent silver monogram now embellishes its entire exterior.
It’s no wonder that Louis Vuitton’s CEO, Pietro Beccari, appeared full of enthusiasm, posing for photos with his wife and two daughters inside the still-under-construction building.
A Star-Studded Evening
Before the audience took their seats, the entire interior of the building was covered with bright orange plastic sheets, and the runway was adorned in a striking shade of bitter orange. Each celebrity arrival was met with enthusiastic cheers from the street – Zendaya, in a white gown that showcased an elegant canvas bustier; Saoirse Ronan, Jennifer Connelly accompanied by her husband, Paul Bettany; Cynthia Erivo in a futuristic swimsuit and coat, and Cate Blanchett in an attention-commanding checkered jumpsuit.
Among those wearing black dresses were Chloë Grace Moretz, in leather attire, and Phoebe Dynevor in a slightly wrinkled cocktail dress. Others opted for floral patterns, including Alicia Vikander, Léa Seydoux, and Ana de Armas. The dazzling glamour in the front row truly stole the spotlight for Louis Vuitton.
An Unforgettable Season
This season, there was no other show that could match the fervor and excitement generated by Vuitton. It was one of 67 shows spanning nine days, featuring a total of 107 brands on the official calendar. The season will conclude tomorrow with two more major shows: Chanel and Miu Miu.
A Showcase of Artistry
Finally, the models confidently glided down the runway, presenting a remarkably strong collection that seamlessly blended futuristic aesthetics, the grandeur of French history, and couture craftsmanship under the creative direction of Nicolas Ghesquière, Vuitton’s creative director for women’s collections.
The show began with a series of oversized baseball jackets paired with undulating skirts, all embellished with Ghesquière’s signature loose belts.
A Surprising Twist
Subsequently, the audience was treated to unexpected delights, including balloon-shaped tops in checkered patterns and a series of leather biker coats adorned with intricate pleats and wavy edges.
All of this was complemented by leather high-heeled shoes resembling elegantly tied scarves, and a stunning array of handbags. In a whimsical nod to the fashion world, Ghesquière introduced handbags designed in the likeness of vintage-style leather camera boxes, playfully acknowledging the world of paparazzi, which took center stage in this extraordinary presentation.
The Essence of French Elegance
This quintessentially French moment was heightened by a captivating background score featuring three songs by the rising French star, Zaho de Sagazan. Much like Ghesquière, Zaho artfully combined eras and influences in her music, infusing elements of synth-pop, krautrock, and Jacques Brel.
Ghesquière’s Modesty
Although Ghesquière declined post-show interviews and appeared indifferent to program notes, he made a memorable exit, walking the runway in a gracefully tailored matching suit. His humility shone through as he accepted a standing ovation from the audience.
The Enduring Allure
Outside the building, on a street corner, scores of tourists patiently queued up, eager to enter the longstanding Louis Vuitton superstore at 101 Champs Elysées. This iconic establishment continues to hold its position as the world’s foremost luxury brand, inviting visitors to experience a world of unparalleled elegance.