On a quest of discovery, Nicolas Ghesquière takes the Louis Vuitton woman on an intergalactic collision course, where fragments of her evolving identity form her heroic journey. All re-envisioned through the lens of photographer JuergenTeller.
By Sophie Pasztor
The digital age is upon us, where the emphasis on technology has consumed our daily life, from the way we connect with the world to the screen we use to view it. Tapping into this reality, Nicolas Ghesquière interprets his paradox for the future and reboots the heritage house, sending it into a parallel universe. The designer enlists cyberpunk beauties to crusade into a “heroic fantasy” and embark on an intergalactic battle of mediums. His latest collection revealed a juxtaposition of urban style and futuristic elements to create a new fashion ideal – where androgyny stimulates gender-neutral designs and a non-conformist attitude is voiced.
This recent chapter in the label’s fashion index ignites the identity of the Louis Vuitton women. She is strong-willed and determined, possessing sartorial power that reaches new heights, allowing her to explore a universe of multiple atmospheres. Hands bound in thick leather straps in preparation of an invasion of biospheres, Ghesquière dreamt up a virtual experience inspired by a futuristic film from the past – where we saw videogame heroines step out of a cyber sphere and into our streets. Journeying through aesthetic ranks, the evolution on the label’s classic style is positively modified by a refreshing take on cybernetic euphoria. Delving further into his domain, photographer Juergen Teller translates Ghesquière’s vision and creates his very own interpretation of the collection. Capitalising on fundamentals that form the Louis Vuitton woman, and using his lens as a way of expressing her essence.
His eye captures a nomadic ambience and he positions the models as simulated characters designed to tell a story. From there, we see their makeup, dressed in durable leather jackets with sleeves donning opposing patterns of red and white and a familiar monogram. Robust combat boots make an appearance with utilitarian jumpsuits and colour-saturated silks. Although a strong masculine presence can be felt, softening streaks of femininity are also imagined through delicate sheer blouses and the introduction of Edwardian collars.
The craftsmanship of the collection bared the same level of focus as its visionary tale – where fine-tuned details provided depth and complexity to its fantastical ideas. Beautiful chiffon dresses are hand-painted with a mesmerising shimmer and embellishments are on full display. Striking crystals and intricate beading are manipulated onto flared skirts and waistcoats. Appearing in a mist of construction, a new drawstring bag surfaced. Chains and exotic skins lined the accessories with what appeared to be the motif for the season.
