AT LOUIS Vuitton Nicolas Ghesquière approached the conclusion of Paris Fashion Week with a big time sports-luxe sensuality for AW16. Inside a dramatic water-world colonnade set featuring mirrored columns reflecting stark light, created by Justin Morin, models donned the latest Vuitton heroine garb with a clear-cut modernity.
Creating dynamic racing stripes with mohair and other fuzzy tactile textile choices Ghesquière buttoned jackets with double-breasted military precision. Strong leathers jackets followed suit on the tactical textile front whilst all graphic elements of the garments underneath worked to sculpt the body into complimentary but never overdone Wonder Woman proportions.
The kind of whimsical silken scarf works of art that Vuitton has become increasingly revered for ever since 1854 then dominated the more free-flowing garments AW16 gave us, decorating delightful day-dresses.
Elsewhere, more subversive touches included patent black and lipstick red harnesses cupping the bosom, giving this Vuitton the harder edge that has taken many fashion houses by storm over the past month. Bringing this appealing attitude to a cusp of maximum chicness Ghesquière made sure every eye in the house was on the resplendent gowns, scattered with meticulously laid out sequins, which finished up the spectacle. The bags, as always, had a starring role in this spectacle.
Featuring artful renditions of Vuitton’s signature stylistic codes seen in various shapes, sizes and put together in softer, less harsh forms they did their bit very well. Another hot topic this season, leopard print, also managed to claw its way into the accessories, with Ghesquiere successfully making it something all of Vuitton’s own.
Altogether, these handbags and very good-looking glad-rags doing complete justice to the institution that is their brand.
by Liam Feltham
Images courtesy of Louis Vuitton