by CARLOS PASSAGE
Louis Vuitton confirmed to the Wall Street Journal that it had chosen Pharrell Williams, the multifaceted musician, producer and entrepreneur to replace the late Virgil Abloh as its male creative director.
Pharell Williams will present his first designs for Louis Vuitton at Paris Men’s Fashion Week this June.
Virgil Abloh, Louis Vuitton’s first black creative director, built a strong following by helping the brand connect with a younger consumer and incorporate elements of streetwear aesthetics into its luxury offerings. He served in his role at Louis Vuitton from 2018 until his death in November 2021.
“I am pleased to welcome Pharrell back home, after our collaborations in 2004 and 2008, as our new Men’s Creative Director,” said Pietro Beccari. President of the brand “His creative vision of him beyond fashion will undoubtedly lead Louis Vuitton into a new and very exciting chapter.”
Pharrell Williams has previously collaborated with other major fashion brands including Adidas, Tiffany & Co., Diesel, Moncler, and Chanel, as well as launching his own Humanrace skincare line.
He received the Fashion Icon Award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America in 2015.
While his fashion innovation and individualism have long been celebrated, he says “ordinary American people” are his influences.