Louis Vuitton’s fall 2021 collection concluded Paris Fashion Week with an awe-inspiring display that paid tribute to the renowned Italian artist, Piero Fornasetti. Fornasetti, known for his remarkable creations inspired by Renaissance masters, heavily influenced the latest collection designed by Louis Vuitton’s women’s creative director, Nicolas Ghesquière. The collection was unveiled through a live event held within the main sculpture galleries of the Louvre.
Ghesquière skillfully infused Fornasetti’s iconic elements into the garments, resulting in a visually stunning collection. Black and white wool coats adorned with neo-classical architectural sketches, yellow cabans featuring heraldic images, and alluring sequined patterns depicting medieval Tuscan walled towns on sexy mini cocktails were among the key highlights. The incorporation of sequins added a touch of opulence and glamour to the designs. Ghesquière completed the looks with his preferred piratical boots and bovver boots, imparting a modern and edgy twist.
Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, the models exuded a confident and fresh vibe as they gracefully paraded past walls of vibrant fluorescent tubes illuminating Fornasetti’s sculpted head prints and metaphysical images. The show’s energetic atmosphere was enhanced by a soundtrack featuring popular songs by Daft Punk. In his program notes, Ghesquière expressed his intention to capture the timeless modernity of Fornasetti’s artistic universe.
To ensure authenticity and stay true to Fornasetti’s legacy, Ghesquière paid a visit to the artist’s workshop in Milan, where Barnaba, Fornasetti’s son, carries forward his father’s artistic vision. Ghesquière was captivated by Fornasetti’s ability to reinterpret the classical heritage of Ancient Rome and flawlessly blend it with contemporary references. As a creator, Ghesquière has always been fascinated by the interplay between the past, present, and future. Incorporating Fornasetti’s creative palimpsest into his own artistic vision will undoubtedly enrich his work.
The grand finale of the show featured a model dressed as a Roman centurion, adorned in a fortified dress beautifully embellished with Fornasetti’s head designs. This commanding image stood in front of the Louvre’s iconic statue, the winged victory of Samothrace, symbolizing the harmonious fusion of theatrical style and decorative opulence.
Louis Vuitton’s fall 2021 collection, inspired by Fornasetti’s artistic brilliance, showcased Ghesquière’s mastery in seamlessly merging classic influences with contemporary aesthetics. The collection served as a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and creative exploration. Through this collaboration, Louis Vuitton celebrated the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of both Fornasetti and the brand itself.
Useful Links:
– Louvre Museum Official Website
– Louis Vuitton Official Website
