Picture by: Francois Mori / AP/Press Association Images
The tough yet oh-so-cool futuristic warriors of last season made a triumphant return to the Louis Vuitton catwalk as Ghesquière offered a luxurious yet refreshing take on leisurewear inspired by “the way women dress today”.
Punky patent trousers in glossy black and red were adorned with chunky zips and staples and retained a gorgeously expensive quality despite their casual structure. Paired with colour block sweatshirts or worn under exquisitely sculpted t-shirt dresses with racer backs, they made for a highly stylish yet functional look.
Texture, as ever, played a major part in the collection and was integral to its futuristic vision.
Leather and loud prints were spliced and merged together to mesmerising effect as exquisite bias-cut dresses were toughened with long leather gloves. The occasional harness gave the impression of armour as the models navigated the otherworldly runway, which featured giant mirror shards, in stomping combat boots.
Picture by: Francois Mori / AP/Press Association Images
Often where Ghesquière leads others follow, so expect to see the high street reference these pieces heavily in the coming seasons – especially the highly versatile striped jumpers and leather baseball jackets.
Ghesquière’s ability to breathe new life into existing silhouettes was exemplified beautifully and reminded us of why he’s such a good fit for a powerhouse brand like Louis Vuitton.
Boxy leather jackets were nipped tightly at the waist and layered over billowing print dresses while silk ruffles frothed from tight neon-panelled dresses, adding a subtle sensuality to an otherwise toughened look.
The accessories were equally as tough but there was still plenty for die hard Vuitton fans to covert as the traditional monogram was revisited in the form of holdalls and small vanity-case style bags. In a nod to the brand’s rich history, the Petite Malle, created when Ghesquière first joined the house in 2013, was reincarnated and screamed commercial success.
Make-up artist extraordinaire Pat McGrath created the deep berry lip which was worn, almost like a uniform, by all models. Interestingly each of the girl’s hair was styled differently – Natalie Westling opening the show with her signature carefree curls – perhaps in a nod to the individuality and rebellious spirit of the clothes.
