The Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2022 Ready-to-Wear collection, presented in a dreamlike Parisian setting, was more than just a showcase of clothing; it was a poignant tribute to Virgil Abloh, the house's late artistic director of menswear. The show, meticulously planned and partially executed under Abloh's visionary guidance before his untimely passing, served as a powerful testament to his enduring influence on the brand, the fashion industry, and the very definition of luxury. This collection, imbued with a youthful energy and a surreal aesthetic, resonated deeply, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed it. From the runway looks to the beauty choices and the carefully curated models, every element of LV FW22 contributed to a narrative that celebrated Abloh's creativity, his dedication to inclusivity, and his unwavering belief in the power of dreams.
A Dreamscape Unfolds: The Runway and the Collection's Narrative
The Cour Carrée of the Louvre, a historic and opulent space, was transformed into a surreal dreamscape for the LV FW22 show. The set design was a key element in conveying the collection's themes. It featured a series of oversized, abstract structures, reminiscent of childhood toys and architectural models, painted in vibrant primary colors. These whimsical forms created a sense of playful disorientation, mirroring the collection's exploration of the blurred lines between reality and imagination, adulthood and adolescence.lv fw22
The clothing itself reflected this sense of duality. The collection was a vibrant tapestry of textures, silhouettes, and influences, ranging from streetwear staples to tailored pieces, all infused with Abloh's signature playful subversion. The color palette was bold and energetic, featuring a mix of bright primaries, pastel hues, and unexpected pops of neon.
One of the defining characteristics of the LV FW22 collection was its focus on youthful exuberance. The designs were infused with a sense of freedom and experimentation, reflecting Abloh's belief in the power of youth culture. Oversized proportions, playful graphics, and unexpected details were all hallmarks of this approach.
Key Runway Looks: A Tapestry of Styles and Influences
The LV FW22 runway presented a diverse range of looks, each telling its own story and contributing to the overall narrative of the collection. Here are some of the standout pieces and trends that emerged:
* The Surrealist Suiting: Tailoring was a prominent feature, but it was far from traditional. Suits were deconstructed and reimagined with unexpected details, such as asymmetrical cuts, mismatched fabrics, and playful embellishments. Some suits featured surrealist-inspired prints and motifs, further blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. One memorable look featured a tailored jacket with a giant, inflatable cartoon character attached to the back, epitomizing the collection's playful spirit.
* The Elevated Streetwear: Abloh's signature streetwear aesthetic remained a core element of the collection. Hoodies, t-shirts, and tracksuits were elevated with luxurious fabrics, intricate detailing, and unexpected embellishments. Graffiti-inspired prints, bold logos, and playful cartoon characters adorned many of the streetwear pieces.
* The Textured Wonders: Texture played a crucial role in the collection, adding depth and dimension to the designs. From luxurious leather and plush velvet to shimmering sequins and intricate embroidery, the use of different textures created a rich and tactile experience. One standout piece featured a coat entirely covered in multicolored, oversized sequins, creating a dazzling and eye-catching effect.
* The Accessorized Adventures: Accessories were integral to the overall aesthetic of the LV FW22 collection. Oversized sunglasses, chunky jewelry, and playful hats added a touch of whimsy and personality to each look. Bags, of course, were a key focus, ranging from classic Louis Vuitton silhouettes reimagined in bold colors and textures to entirely new designs that reflected the collection's surrealist themes.
* The Iconic Virgil Abloh FW22 Jacket: Several jackets throughout the collection stood out, embodying Abloh’s design principles and aesthetic. One notable piece featured a bold, graphic print reminiscent of cartoon art, injecting a playful and youthful vibe into the classic jacket silhouette. Another jacket showcased intricate detailing, possibly incorporating elements of deconstruction or unexpected textures, reflecting Abloh's penchant for subverting traditional tailoring norms. The jackets, in general, seemed to be a canvas for expressing Abloh's vision, blurring the lines between high fashion and streetwear, and ultimately celebrating individuality and creative expression. These specific jackets have since become highly sought-after collector’s items, symbolizing Abloh’s lasting legacy.
Beauty and Casting: Reflecting a Vision of Inclusivity
The beauty choices and model casting for the LV FW22 show were carefully considered to reflect Abloh's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The makeup was bold and expressive, featuring vibrant colors, graphic eyeliner, and playful embellishments. The hair was equally adventurous, with a mix of natural textures, bold colors, and avant-garde styling.
The model casting was particularly noteworthy. Abloh consistently championed diversity on the runway, and the LV FW22 show was no exception. The models represented a wide range of ethnicities, body types, and gender identities, reflecting the diversity of the world and the brand's commitment to inclusivity. The casting choices were not just about aesthetics; they were about celebrating individuality and challenging traditional beauty standards.