virgil abloh first lv collection | Virgil Abloh louis vuitton blade

Virgil Abloh's appointment as the Artistic Director of Menswear for Louis Vuitton in 2018 was a watershed moment in the fashion industry. It signaled a shift in the landscape, a recognition of streetwear's growing influence, and a commitment to inclusivity that resonated deeply with a younger generation. His inaugural collection for the luxury powerhouse, unveiled during Paris Fashion Week, was not just a presentation of garments; it was a manifesto, a declaration of intent, and a powerful commentary on the evolving dynamics of luxury, race, and representation. This article delves into the intricacies of Virgil Abloh's first Louis Vuitton collection, exploring its key themes, iconic pieces, and the lasting impact it had on the fashion world and beyond.

A Polychromatic Vision: Deconstructing and Rebuilding Luxury

Abloh's debut collection for Louis Vuitton was anything but subtle. It was a vibrant, almost overwhelming, explosion of color, texture, and ideas. The runway itself was a rainbow-colored gradient, a visual representation of the collection's central theme: the exploration and deconstruction of traditional notions of luxury and the subsequent re-imagining of what it could become.virgil abloh first lv collection

The collection was divided into distinct color sections, each representing a different facet of Abloh's vision. From the stark whites and creams representing "pure" luxury to the vibrant reds, yellows, and blues signifying youthful energy and streetwear influences, the collection was a carefully curated journey through Abloh's creative mind.

Key Themes and Influences:

Several recurring themes permeated the collection, providing a framework for understanding Abloh's intentions:

* Youth Culture: Abloh's deep understanding and appreciation for youth culture were evident throughout the collection. Silhouettes were relaxed and oversized, reminiscent of streetwear staples like hoodies, tracksuits, and bomber jackets. The incorporation of sneakers as a key footwear component further solidified this connection.

* Streetwear's Embrace of Luxury: The collection was a conscious effort to bridge the gap between high fashion and streetwear. Abloh took elements traditionally associated with streetwear – graphic prints, bold colors, and athletic-inspired designs – and elevated them using luxurious materials and meticulous craftsmanship.

* Inclusivity and Representation: Abloh was a staunch advocate for diversity and inclusivity, and this ethos was woven into the fabric of his collection. The casting of models from diverse backgrounds, the use of symbolic imagery, and the subtle nods to African heritage all contributed to a message of representation and empowerment.

* The Three Percent Approach: Abloh famously advocated for the "Three Percent Approach," which involved tweaking existing designs by just three percent to create something entirely new. This philosophy was evident in the collection, where familiar silhouettes were subtly altered and reimagined, resulting in pieces that felt both familiar and innovative.

* Deconstruction and Reconstruction: Abloh's deconstructionist approach was a hallmark of his work. He challenged traditional notions of luxury by dismantling established codes and reassembling them in unexpected ways. This was evident in the use of unconventional materials, the juxtaposition of contrasting textures, and the subversion of classic silhouettes.

Iconic Pieces and Design Highlights:

While the entire collection was a statement in itself, certain pieces stood out as particularly impactful:

* The Transparent PVC Keepall Bag: Perhaps the most iconic piece from the collection, the transparent PVC Keepall bag was a bold and provocative statement. It challenged the traditional notion of luxury as something exclusive and hidden, instead showcasing its contents in a transparent manner. This bag became a symbol of Abloh's deconstructionist approach and his willingness to challenge established norms.

* The "Wizard of Oz" Inspired Pieces: Abloh drew inspiration from the classic film "The Wizard of Oz," incorporating imagery and motifs into several pieces. A rainbow-colored intarsia knit sweater, a yellow brick road-printed shirt, and a poppy field-embroidered jacket all paid homage to the film's themes of hope, dreams, and self-discovery.

* The Monogrammed Harnesses: The collection featured a range of leather harnesses adorned with the iconic Louis Vuitton monogram. These harnesses were both functional and decorative, adding a subversive and edgy element to the collection. They represented Abloh's interest in exploring the boundaries of traditional menswear and his willingness to experiment with unconventional silhouettes.

* The Bold Graphic Prints: The collection was replete with bold graphic prints, ranging from abstract patterns to slogans and logos. These prints added a youthful and energetic feel to the collection, reflecting Abloh's connection to street art and contemporary culture.

* The Deconstructed Tailoring: Abloh reimagined traditional tailoring by deconstructing classic suits and blazers. He experimented with oversized proportions, asymmetrical cuts, and unexpected fabric combinations, creating pieces that felt both sophisticated and subversive.

The Impact on the Fashion World:

Virgil Abloh's first Louis Vuitton collection had a profound and lasting impact on the fashion world. It:

* Legitimized Streetwear in Luxury: Abloh's appointment and his subsequent collection cemented streetwear's place in the luxury market. He demonstrated that streetwear could be elevated and refined, appealing to a wider audience without sacrificing its core values.