Everything
Less than 12 months since his appointment as Artistic Director of Louis Vuitton Men’s and Virgil Abloh has delivered his second collection for the French fashion house. Following up on his Spring/Summer 2019 debut which saw a new era of luxury streetwear in the form of psychedelic colour and futuristic silhouettes, the designer is back, cementing his position at Paris Fashion Week Men’s.
Despite lingering doubts on his ability to lead such an iconic brand, Abloh once again proved himself for Fall/Winter 2019. Set within the Jardin des Tuileries, recreating the corner of Rivington and Ludlow in New York City, the latest collection stepped away from the ’80s era which influenced much of late 2018, and paid homage to the ’00s – and namely Michael Jackson.
Reading more like a stage show rather than a standard runway, the presentation opened with acting and a street performer before unveiling the Fall/Winter 2019 collection, accompanied with live music. Much like SS/19, the line was dominated with tonal looks and outerwear weaved throughout the runway followed by busy prints, rhinestone-encrusted details and pops of neon behind all-beige styles. But look closely, and you’ll recognise hidden design elements, drawn from some of Michael Jackson’s most iconic looks.
Military silhouettes followed with OTT use of rhinestones, oversized coats were largely at play and world flags were draped across models, like they were once with the iconic singer. Even simple looks including including silk shirts and white socks were continually referenced.
Often inspired by popular culture that has shaped society, we will have to wait another six months for Virgil Abloh’s next running theme.
Coinciding with the runway, today sees the pre-launch of Virgil Abloh’s much anticipated Men’s Spring-Summer 2019 début collection as Men’s Artistic Director for Louis Vuitton. The collection is available in George Street Sydney, Collins Street and Chadstone Melbourne stores. Head in quick to check out the pieces.
