Pharrell's Debuts Pixelated Damier Prints As New Creative Director

Pharrell Williams’ highly-anticipated debut as Louis Vuitton’s Creative Director at Paris Fashion Week was an absolute jaw-dropper! Set against the stunning backdrop of Pont Neuf bridge, this show was truly an event for the ages. With a star-studded guest list that included fashion icons like Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, and Zendaya, the excitement was off the charts as the fashion world eagerly anticipated what Pharrell Williams had in store.

 

Right from the get-go, the event was full of grandeur. Guests were whisked away on luxurious boats from Musée d’Orsay to the bridge, enjoying breathtaking views of the Seine and the iconic Eiffel Tower. The bridge itself was decked out in Louis Vuitton’s signature Damier check but in a dazzling golden hue, symbolizing the significance of this monumental occasion. And let’s not forget how the golden rays perfectly tied into the central theme of the collection – the sun.

As dusk settled over Paris, an incredible orchestral arrangement took center stage. The music, composed by Pharrell himself, set the tone for what was to come. Joined by the heavenly gospel choir Voice of Fire, reminiscent of Kanye West’s Sunday Service, the music became the foundation on which the apparel would shine. Louis Vuitton’s iconic Damier check, a symbol of their heritage, graced the catwalk with 71 stunning new pieces, blending classic style with a visionary, futuristic twist.

The sneak peeks on Pharrell’s newly minted @skateboard Instagram account showcased pixelated camo looks that quickly became one of the collection’s standout features. Aptly named the “Damoflage” pattern, this avant-garde design was said to be inspired by 8-bit Atari graphics, although some savvy online users also drew comparisons to the pixelated world of Minecraft.

The “Damoflage” pattern adorned every piece in the collection, from stunning floor-length trench coats and sleek leather bombers to luxurious fur jackets and oversized scarves. Another noteworthy highlight was the “LVERS” motif, which paid homage to Pharrell’s high school sweetheart and incorporated elements of varsity and collegiate style. Each piece was adorned with a captivating “LV Lovers” print, a tribute to Pharrell’s personal experiences and his home state’s famous “Virginia is For Lovers” slogan.

Of course, no Louis Vuitton show would be complete without a tantalizing selection of accessories. The runway was transformed into a captivating display of monogrammed trunks, elegantly transported on sleek, blacked-out golf buggies. One particularly eye-catching addition was a trunk crafted entirely from striking copper. And let’s not forget the updated version of the iconic ‘Speedy’ handbag, personally chosen by Pharrell for its association with the vibrant energy of Canal Street in Lower Manhattan. This modern iteration features supple leather construction, making it perfect for everyday use.

To cap off an unforgettable night, the after-party took things to a whole new level. Attendees were treated to incredible performances by Pharrell and Jay-Z, who kept the crowd entertained with their biggest hits well into the late hours.

While opinions on social media may vary, it’s hard to deny the immense talent displayed by Pharrell and his team as they flawlessly captured the essence of the legendary French fashion house. It’s worth mentioning the incredible legacy left behind by the late Virgil Abloh, making Pharrell’s debut all the more exceptional.