Symbolism in Virgil Abloh's Louis Vuitton Debut

The much anticipated reveal of the first Louis Vuitton collection designed by the newly appointed men’s artistic director Virgil Abloh hit the runway this week during Paris Fashion Week. As the first ever African-American creative director in Louis Vuitton history, this show marked a pinnacle moment in the fashion industry. With a focus on globalism and diversity, Virgil showcased his line on a diverse collection of models who walked on a rainbow runway in the Palace Royale. The collection combined streetwear with high fashion featuring wide-legged suit trousers, double-breasted jackets and LV monogrammed travel bags with chain handles.

Placed on the seats that lined the 200 meter long runway were the press notes for the guests, that featured a world map marking all the cities where the models in the show were born or where their parents were born. This was created to further express the global view of the show - “A global view on diversity linked to the travel DNA of the brand.” 

The show itself was riddled with A-list celebrities and musicians showing their love and support for Virgil; including Kanye West, Kim Kardashian, Rihanna, ASAP Rocky Bella Hadid and Naomi Campbell. 

The concept of diversity was shown both on and off the runway with 1,000 of the 2,000 guests invited to watch this much anticipated show, being students from local Parisian fashion schools. This was done to empower the next generation of designers and creators, and remind them that “you can do it too”.