Describing the collection as “an archaeology of the future” and a new approach to “ultra romanticism” Nicholas Ghesquiere, creative director of Louis Vuitton, debuted the new collection on the dreamy Isola Bella, on Italy’s Lake Maggiore …
Nicholas Chesquiere, Louis Vuitton’s creative director clearly channelled #mermaidcore in his 2024 Cruise Collection which debuted on the private island of Isola Bella, on Lake Maggiore, Italy.
The official show notes called this collection “a narrative of transformation. Sartorial characters that renew themselves, each in contact with the other.”
Helpfully, Ghesquiere decoded this message for the civilians and celebrities present: “We started with the idea that the girls were coming from the water, like mermaids of the lake, and they’re transforming into something else,” he explained. “By the end the mermaid becomes a flower, but maybe not a flower that exists.”
There were definitely fabulous sequinned floral motifs but other notable details included fin-fluted hemlines, water droplet embellishments, neoprene diving jackets, scuba-style bralettes and cycling shorts as well as gill ruffs. Of note were the elaborate feathered and gilded headdresses, made by a Roman atelier, and the sci-fi athleisurewear.
The overriding result was not the current trend for “quiet luxury” but full blown fantasy dressing; the designs seamlessly referencing the Baroque botanical setting. No doubt the guests, who included actresses and Louis Vuitton muses such as Emma Stone, Alicia Vikander, Cate Blanchett and Gemma Chan, have already earmarked a few of the sorbet-coloured gowns for future red carpet appearances…
More wearable were the double-breasted coats in camel, black and navy and the accessories, especially the flat pirate boots. The big news in terms of covetable bags was the return of the historic Randonnée bucket bag-inspired backpack – perfect for the present hybrid working world and travelling.
For further information visit www.louisvuitton.com.
