On May 14, Louis Vuitton held its 2018 Cruise Collection show at the Miho Museum in Koga, Shiga Prefecture. This was the Maison's first pre-collection show in Japan. The Miho Museum, designed by architect I.M. Pei, known for the Louvre Pyramid in Paris, was inspired by the concept of a "paradise on earth." Artistic Director Nicolas Ghesquière visited the museum several years ago and was captivated by its concept of fusing modernity with nature, which led to the creation of the show. The collection's inspiration lies in a world that alternates between opposites: modernity and noble ancestral civilization, futurism and poetry, vibrant metropolises and graceful natural landscapes. At the heart of this pursuit is the evolution toward modernity that begins with traditional Japanese culture. Nicolas Ghesquière's wide-ranging explorations of Japonism—from samurai and armor, martial arts training wear, iconic sculptures, ink paintings, ukiyo-e, Noh, Kabuki, and even the films of Akira Kurosawa and Takeshi Kitano—were beautifully sublimated into real clothes for the tough modern woman.
The show featured a gigantic, 1km-long runway. The first look was by internationally acclaimed actress Rila Fukushima. Models appeared in eyeliner-enhanced makeup reminiscent of Kabuki actors. Minimalist bottoms were the norm, with tight mini skirts and skinny pants. A combination jacket with a tight waist added movement, revealing the sleeves and hems of the shirt. Urban pantsuits and structured tunics used colors reminiscent of Katsushika Hokusai. Sweaters made of interwoven jersey and leather featured powerful shoulders, reminiscent of samurai armor. Evening dresses shone with a golden glow reminiscent of a Noh stage performance, and the delicate kimono sashes were transformed into tapered pants. The sporty jacquard dresses and caps featured bonsai-like patterns in the latter half of the show, further enhancing the Japanese mood. Furthermore, the collection paid homage to Kansai Yamamoto, known for designing most of David Bowie's costumes, with sequined dresses, clutch bags, and accessories featuring the Musashibo Benkei motif designed by Yamamoto. A day where Parisian spirit and traditional Japanese culture blended in a fantastical atmosphere woven by magnificent nature and modern architecture. Nicolas Ghesquière's modernity undoubtedly served as a catalyst for awakening respect for tradition, something that modern people often forget.
Video source: (Louis Vuitton Official YouTube: https://youtu.be/UzIUQeoG-NQ)
