Key facts
- Nicolas Ghesquière was honored by French President Emmanuel Macron.
- The designer's latest Louis Vuitton collection was inspired by climate change and future cities.
- The show featured 34 flying cars as a futuristic set piece.
- Brigitte Macron has a close collaboration with Ghesquière and has worn his designs.
- Louis Vuitton is the flagship brand of LVMH, which contributes about 1% to French GDP.
Nicolas Ghesquière, the artistic director of Louis Vuitton, was honored with a knighthood by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace for his significant contributions to the nation's creative industries. The ceremony took place shortly after Ghesquière presented his latest collection for Louis Vuitton in Paris.
The fashion show, held in an inner courtyard of the Louvre, featured models in silk slip dresses, chiffon layers, and beaded silver fringes, reflecting Ghesquière's futuristic vision and his consideration of a warming world. The set was dramatically enhanced by 34 flying cars, arranged on stilts above the catwalk, creating a striking contrast with the historic architecture of the museum.
Ghesquière stated that the record summer temperatures had a strong influence on his designs, leading to a departure from his signature angular styles towards lighter, freer silhouettes. He reflected on the need for a "different wardrobe" that is relevant for the current and future climate.
Notable guests at the show included actors Zendaya, who wore a ruffled organza jacket, and Bella Maclean. The knighting ceremony guests included Catherine Deneuve, Phoebe Philo, and K-pop star Felix of Stray Kids. Brigitte Macron, the First Lady, has a long-standing relationship with Ghesquière, often wearing his custom designs for state occasions.