By Sara Fabek Zovko
GETTY IMAGES / ALAIN JOCARD/AFP
The third collection designed by Williams opened up Paris Fashion Week 2024.
Pharrell Williams continues his success streak as creative director of Louis Vuitton as he transported showgoers to the Wild West for his AW24 collection. With the unexpected element of a performance by Mumford & Sons, the runway was definitely a fantastic choice for a Paris Fashion Week opener.
Little was known about the LV runway before the day, with only Williams’ cowboy-themed teasers being dropped on the musicians' somewhat official Instagram account. His collaboration with the iconic trio for the show was a glimpse into how Williams may fuse his musical and fashion aspirations in the future. The venue was a surprise as well: despite the runway being held in a hangar near the fashion house’s art museum, the show attracted several big names, such as Bradley Cooper, Jackson Wang, South Korean Boyband Riize and Playboi Carti, into its audience.
Louis Vuitton Men's AW24 Collection
The collection itself was also a triumph: earth tones dominated the runway, with Pharrell’s cowboy teasers indicative of an ongoing theme throughout the collection. From more obvious accessory choices like cowboy hats and boots to subtle additions of fringe and typically Western embellishments and frills, the Wild West found its way to Paris through the Autumn/Winter 2024 runway.
Although the cowboy theme was prevalent, it was smoothly merged with elements of street style, as well as several blazers and jackets with unique cuts and structures. A mix of patterns and fabrics was prominent, with some looks being cut out of denim or leather and others presenting entire landscapes drawn and etched onto the fabric. Earthly browns and greens were met with faded denim and splashes of bold burgundy. There was also an element of glitz in the collection, from embezzled suiting cut in fluid lines to gilt-edged bags, trunks, and luggage finished in gold and silver.
Ultimately, Williams’ third collection was truly the show-stopper it was expected to be. The classic Western theme tied the show together, yet the designs avoided being tired, bringing forth a fresh, original perspective instead, and ensuring a devoted audience looking forward to the next collection.
Comments