A Fusion of Medieval Majesty and Futuristic Elegance

In a spectacle that blended the pageantry of the papacy with the avant-garde spirit of modern fashion, Louis Vuitton took to the historic Palais des Papes in Avignon, France, for its latest catwalk show. The event marked a first for the palace, which has stood for over 700 years as a testament to the grandeur of medieval Europe. The Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been a symbol of power and spirituality, serving as the seat of the Catholic Church’s presence in the region during the 14th century.

Designer Nicolas Ghesquière, at the helm of Vuitton for over a decade, drew inspiration from the building’s rich history, as well as his own memories of attending the experimental theatre festival it hosts each summer. The result was a collection that seamlessly merged medieval and futuristic elements, with models strutting down the runway in short tunic dresses and slouchy boots, reminiscent of both heraldic knights and Glastonbury festival-goers. The collection’s color palette was a masterful blend of rich jewel tones, metallic hues, and soft pastels, evoking the opulence of the papal era while also nodding to the modern era’s penchant for eclecticism.

For evening wear, Ghesquière opted for glittering metallic jersey gowns with bishop sleeves, evoking the spirit of Joan of Arc and Janis Joplin. The collection’s eclectic mix of references was a testament to Ghesquière’s ability to make the esoteric and the futuristic look entirely contemporary. The designer’s use of armor-inspired motifs, such as the use of chainmail and leather, added a layer of depth and complexity to the collection, highlighting the enduring appeal of these medieval symbols.

The show was a fitting tribute to the papacy, which has been a dominant theme in popular culture this year, thanks in part to the recent conclave in the Vatican. Ghesquière acknowledged the coincidence, noting that “there is a magnetism to this place, to the idea of believing.” The designer’s understanding of the power of fashion to convey status, taste, and class was also on full display, as the likes of Brigitte Macron, Cate Blanchett, and Pharrell Williams attended the event, filling the palace’s central courtyard with a sense of pomp and ceremony. The event’s guest list was a veritable who’s who of the fashion and celebrity worlds, with many of the industry’s most influential figures in attendance.

As the largest fashion brand in the LVMH stable, Louis Vuitton’s influence on the industry is undeniable. With a revenue of $88bn in 2024, the brand’s ability to command attention and generate buzz is a testament to Ghesquière’s skill as a designer and his ability to stay ahead of the curve. As he looks to the future, Ghesquière remains committed to pushing the boundaries of fashion, saying “fashion should always be about change.” With this latest collection, it’s clear that Louis Vuitton is at the forefront of that change.

The event also marked a significant moment for the Palais des Papes, with Louis Vuitton announcing plans to finance a new architectural lighting project to spotlight the facade after dark. The project, which is set to be completed in the coming year, will not only enhance the palace’s beauty but also serve as a testament to the enduring power of art and culture to transform and uplift.

As the fashion world continues to evolve and adapt to the changing times, Louis Vuitton’s commitment to innovation and creativity is a beacon of hope for the industry. With this latest collection, Ghesquière has once again proven himself to be a master of his craft, pushing the boundaries of fashion and redefining the possibilities of what it means to be fashionable.