We can all finally let out the breath we have all been unconsciously holding for the past two years — the titular creative role of Louis Vuitton’s menswear collections post-Abloh is none other than world-famous producer, streetwear star and creative wunderkind Pharrell Williams.
This move holds steady Louis Vuitton’s streetwear leanings in their men’s collections, the mass appeal and new-age approach of this appointment proving the Maison’s belief in the power of genre-defying creative visionaries — contrasting the recent appointment of Valentino designer Sabato De Sarno at Gucci.
But this is not the first time Williams has dabbled and owned the art of design in works or projects. Together with Nigo, the current artistic director of KENZO, he started the clothing label Billionaire Boys Club in 2003. Williams then went on to collaborate with a diverse range of brands, including everything from UNIQLO and G-Star RAW to Moncler and Adidas. He’s also got collaborations with Chanel, Tiffany & Co. and even Louis Vuitton under his belt — they had first worked together on an eyewear and jewellery line in 2008.
“I am glad to welcome Pharrell back home, after our collaborations in 2004 and 2008 for Louis Vuitton, as our new Men’s Creative Director,” said Pietro Beccari, Louis Vuitton’s Chairman and CEO. “His creative vision beyond fashion will undoubtedly lead Louis Vuitton towards a new and very exciting chapter.”
The 49-year-old multi-hyphenate’s appointment also comes after the Maison’s year-long tribute to Virgil Abloh’s legacy at Louis Vuitton for the whole of 2022. His debut collection for the Maison will show in June during the Men’s Fashion Week in Paris.
