On the runway, models presented bold silhouettes inspired by Tudor court fashion, embodying a striking power-dressing aesthetic. When asked about his creative process, Nicolas Ghesquière, the designer for Louis Vuitton, said, “What I do is time travel, not fashion.” He pointed out that while Louis Vuitton boasts a rich history of 170 years, the essence of fashion lies in the future. “And let’s not forget, luxurious travel is what Louis Vuitton luggage represents,” he added, underscoring that time travel is indeed the pinnacle of travel experiences.
At the Louvre, a remarkable stage built from Louis Vuitton trunks created a catwalk reminiscent of a train station platform. As Ghesquière celebrated his 10th anniversary with the brand, he expressed his wish for this season to signify “a renaissance.” His vision came to life as models walked the runway in extravagant outfits echoing the power-dressing styles of the Renaissance. The first model donned a striped jacket featuring puffed sleeves, a peplum waist, and a striking upturned-triangle bodice.
These designs reflected the opulence of Tudor nobility, who made statements of authority through exaggerated silhouettes and precise tailoring. Ghesquière is known for exploring historical connections, drawing parallels between contemporary cycling shorts and historical breeches, illustrating fashion’s cyclical nature.
With advancements in fabric technology, jackets now feel as light as blouses, adorned with intricate embroidery. However, the price tags on accompanying handbags read like the cost of outfitting a king’s army, emphasizing that the allure of soft power in the luxury sector comes at a premium.
Ghesquière’s penchant for taking design risks is enhanced by the success of his handbag empire, which allows him to incorporate “aesthetic danger” into his collections. For example, transparent lace pantaloons paired with monogram clutch bags and a tunic featuring one-legged trousers matched with a sleek Damier check shoulder bag showcased his bold experimentation.
Reflecting on his journey, Ghesquière noted, “Fashion used to be something for unusual people. Now it’s for everyone.” He stressed the importance of crafting compelling propositions. “While not everyone can wear our bags, shoes, or clothes, they can still connect emotionally with our creations. What people seek in fashion today is freshness—be it a striking color combination or innovative construction.”
Though this season’s show was more understated compared to the extravagant anniversary celebration earlier in the year, Ghesquière is dedicated to ensuring that fashion continues to honor individuality and diversity. “People have embraced their differences and want to celebrate them,” he affirmed, highlighting the evolving landscape of the fashion industry.
