An Enchanting World of Water: Louis Vuitton Cruise 2024
Set amidst the captivating scenery of Isola Bella’s breathtaking botanical gardens and a magnificent, tiered fountain adorned with mythical creatures, the event marked the island’s debut as a fashion venue, renowned for its suspended Baroque art over the water.
Creative director Nicolas Ghesquière invited Hollywood stars and celebrities to attend the presentation of his latest Louis Vuitton Cruise 2024 show on a private island in Lake Maggiore, belonging to Italy’s Borromeo dynasty for 500 years. According to the brand, “the opulent allure of Isola Bella lends itself to the scenography through its Baroque beauty and flourishing flora. Imbued with a rich heritage, an enchanting dream forms, transcending time.”
Set amidst the captivating scenery of Isola Bella’s breathtaking botanical gardens and a magnificent, tiered fountain adorned with mythical creatures, the event marked the island’s debut as a fashion venue, renowned for its suspended Baroque art over the water.
The highly anticipated Cruise Collection, inspired by aquatic themes, was scheduled to be revealed in the charming, terraced gardens of Isola Bella. A select group of 1000 VIP guests, including renowned celebrities such as Cate Blanchett, Samara Weaving, Emma Stone, Phoebe Dynevor, Oprah, Alicia Vikander, Gemma Chan, and Jennifer Connelly, arrived by boat to enjoy an alfresco setting and witness the collection by the seaside. However, due to unexpected inclement weather, the Louis Vuitton team promptly adapted their plans and relocated the runway to the sheltered confines of Isola Bella’s waterproof walls.
Described as an “archaeology of the future”, the event was set in a dreamlike environment, where models wore incredible pieces, maximal accessories, and innovative silhouettes focused on an underwater glamour and fairy-like enchantment combined with a cruise wear perspective and touches of magic. According to the show notes, the brand said, “A Cruise that gives rise to contemporary tales, populated by drifting creatures that abandon aquatic dwellings for the discovery of terrestrial wonders,” and added, “The Cruise 2024 collection is a narrative of transformation. Sartorial characters that renew themselves, each in contact with the other.”
The Louis Vuitton Cruise 2024 collection featured tales of drifting creatures such as Ariel and her sisters. Sheer dresses and flowing skirts contributing a sense of lightness. The collection also drew further inspiration from the island’s aquatic surroundings, featuring ruffled details reminiscent of fins and fabrics resembling scuba gear. The attention to detail was exceptional, with swirled beading, ornate headpieces fit for mermaid royalty, and floral sequined print dresses that resembled stained glass when viewed from afar.
“Imagined as a tale of the extraordinary, the collection is open to a myriad of influences, revealing a hybrid elegance of baroque opulence and neoprene. Like Isola Bella, a ship of greenery sailing between myth and reality, Nicolas Ghesquière finds the new balance of a contemporary femininity and ultra-romance in this paradoxical notion.” – From Louis Vuitton.
In a departure from the recent seasons’ neutral and hardware-focused aesthetics, the Louis Vuitton Cruise 2024 collection embraced a lighter and more vibrant tone. Creative director Ghesquière introduced a range of elements, including slouchy pastel sweaters featuring sheer panels, elegant satin draped mini dresses in captivating jewel tones, and breezy culottes layered with bike shorts. While incorporating his signature elements, such as cocoon-like tops, lavishly adorned layers, and slope-sleeve blazers, the designer skillfully infused a relaxed and effortless style into the creations. This fusion of elements added a touch of sci-fi-meets-Bridgerton cosplay to the overall silhouettes, creating a unique and captivating aesthetic.
