American musician, producer and stylist Pharrell Williams was named artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s men’s collections on Tuesday, succeeding Virgil Abloh, who passed away in November 2021, the brand announced.
“Louis Vuitton is pleased to announce Pharrell Williams as Menswear Creative Director, effective immediately,” the brand said in a statement.
“His first collection for Louis Vuitton will be presented next June during Men’s Fashion Week in Paris.”
“Pharrell Williams is a visionary whose creative worlds range from music to art to fashion and who has established himself as a universal cultural icon over the past twenty years. His ability to transcend the boundaries between the different worlds he explores naturally fits the cultural dimension of Louis Vuitton and reinforces its values of innovation, pioneering spirit and entrepreneurship. .
“I’m delighted to see Pharrell returning home after our collaboration in 2004 and 2008,” said Louis Vuitton CEO Pietro Beccari, quoted in the press release. “His creative vision beyond fashion will no doubt lead Louis Vuitton into a very exciting new chapter,” he continues.
His appointment is consistent with the legacy of Virgil Abloh, a jack of all trades artist who became a fashion icon for his skillful blending of luxury and streetwear.
An approach shared by Pharrell Williams, who died like the designer of cancer at the age of 41, a passion for skateboarding, the world of art and music.
Pharrell Williams, 49, is used to the front rows of fashion shows and is the creator of global hits (Daft Punk’s Happy and Get Lucky).
He also collaborated with Japanese Nigo, recently appointed Artistic Director of Kenzo, also owned by LVMH.
The last Vuitton show in January was marked by the appearance of pop superstar Rosalia, who almost stole the show from the collection.