When it was announced that musician and celebrity entrepreneur Pharrell Williams would lead operations for menswear at Louis Vuitton as the French Maison's latest creative director, the reactions were divided. It had drawn massive criticism by the time it escalated on social media, and debates amongst disappointed and excited fashion adversaries were heated - to say the least. The exchanges were divided into two factions: one citing the announcement as troubling news to grasp, seeing that Williams might be "unqualified", while the other saw the potential of Williams' influence on Louis Vuitton. Between the noise, however, both sides agree on one thing that the announcement was inevitable.
Williams' appointment puts the term "creative director" in a unique position. During the weeks leading up to it, the rumours surrounding the French Maison's replacement for the late-Virgil Abloh placed their faith in rising British designers Martine Rose and Grace Wales Bonner as the most suitable candidates. It made sense. If Louis Vuitton considered replicating Abloh's previous culturally-led success, Rose and Bonner - black designers with an "underground" design pedigree were their most obvious choices. What can Williams - known for radio-friendly pop hits "Happy" and "Get Lucky", much less sewing shirts or crafting leather bags - bring to the table that neither designer might be able to? The answer is pretty simple. It provides a sense of culture, which is essential, especially when it can be instant, digestible and just like Williams' hit songs be far-reaching and memorable.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Forged in Steel
Franck Muller celebrates Sincere Fine Watches’ 7Oth anniversary with avery special Vanguard.
Made For Modern Life
The Volvo EX30 is the much-needed vehicle for a joyful and fuss-free ride.
Eastern Charm
With a blazing display of KARLS Group's culinary bravura, the Upper House KL gives classic Asian flavours a modern twist.
When Worlds Collide
Where revered tradition meets unceasing imagination, Hennessy has teamed up with French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel for its latest collaboration.
Business Means Business: Cathay Pacific
With the return of flights, and the additional of new ones, there is little reason to doubt that doing a stopover in Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific to any destination in the world from ASEAN is the best decision one might make in their lifetime. Plus, its concrete Business and Premium Economy Class offerings, and world-renowned lounges in HKIA make travelling on the Hong Kong-based airline an experience via a stopover, rather than a chore.
Malaysia's New Zenith
Celebrating the first Malaysian Zenith boutique in The Exchange TRX.
Two-Timing
Cartier's timekeeping greats for 2024 range from the classic to the experimental.
Racing Through Time
Celebrating Rolex’s timeless relationship with motor racing.
A Man And His Watch
Men's Folio Malaysia speaks to watch collectors about the first watch that drew them into the hobby.
A Cartoon's Charm
Cartoon watches might seem childish but there are reasons to feel otherwise, especially if the nostalgia transports one back to childhood days.
