Nicolas Ghesquière, the Artistic director of women’s collections at Louis Vuitton, presented his Pre-Fall 2024 collection in Shanghai, marking the fashion house’s first runway show under the “Voyager Show” format. The collection itself was a vibrant blend of Eastern and Western influences, showcasing Ghesquière’s signature love of bold prints and innovative silhouettes.
A key highlight of the show was the collaboration with young Chinese artist Sun Yitian. Her whimsical cartoon animals adorned a range of garments and accessories, from A-line car coats to miniskirts and bags, infusing the collection with a playful, collectible quality.
Ghesquière also revisited some of his signature motifs, including striking florals and utility-inspired pieces. The collection transitioned from delicate jersey dresses adorned with florals to tougher looks featuring embroidered vests and knee-length board shorts. Hints of Ghesquière’s past collections emerged in the form of cropped zip-front shirts reminiscent of a past surf-themed collection, and patchwork shell jackets that echoed his earlier work.
The show also saw a strong emphasis on skirts, a departure from Ghesquière’s usual focus on pants. The collection featured a variety of flowing, feminine skirts, some with asymmetrical hemlines and others layered over shorts. The grand finale brought a touch of drama with a trio of voluminous bubble dresses in white, platinum, and black silk duchesse.
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The energy of Shanghai’s youth culture was palpable throughout the show, reflected in the soundtrack, a collaboration between new-gen Chinese top model Chu Wong and Ghesquière’s longtime collaborator Woodkid Music. The venue itself, the Long Museum, was chosen for its industrial, futuristic architecture, creating a stark contrast with the romantic and playful elements of the collection.
The collection reflects not just Ghesquière’s vision but also his observations of how Chinese consumers approach fashion. Looks paired flowy dresses with combat boots or maxi skirts with trail-running sneakers, showcasing a preference for comfort and a relaxed elegance.
This playful and exuberant collection, already available in stores worldwide, is a testament to Ghesquière’s enduring ability to create fashion that is both innovative and commercially successful.
Read more: Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2024 – Paris Fashion Week
©Photo: Louis Vuitton
