Pharrell Williams Appointed Creative Director of Louis Vuitton Menswear
He is first to succeed the late Virgil Abloh.
It’s been a little over a year since Virgil Abloh, the former Creative Director of Louis Vuitton menswear, passed away in November 2021. However, the Maison has finally announced an official successor: Pharrell Williams.
Abloh’s absence has left a void in the fashion house, the fashion community, and the world at large. The loss of his genius is palpable, but his legacy remains.
Louis Vuitton had big shoes to fill. Among the numerous candidates were industry favorites such as Telfar Clemens, Grace Wales, and Martine Rose. Announced just this afternoon, the house ultimately chose none other than Williams. Given his similar commitment to innovation and longtime friendship with the late designer, this move on Vuitton’s behalf is befitting.
Williams was among the first to merge high fashion with streetwear during the early 2000s with brands like Billionaire Boys Club. Since then, the designer has transitioned seamlessly into the luxury space with successful collaborations at Chanel, Moncler, and of course, Louis Vuitton.
Pietro Beccari, Louis Vuitton’s Chairman and CEO, expressed the significance of this appointment best in a recent statement. “I am glad to welcome Pharrell back home, after our collaborations in 2004 and 2008 for Louis Vuitton, as our new Men’s Creative Director. His creative vision beyond fashion will undoubtedly lead Louis Vuitton towards a new and very exciting chapter.”
Pharrell will be debuting his first collection under the Maison in June.