Louis Vuitton takes Shanghai by storm with 'Voyager' fashion show

This debut in China’s metropolis follows luxury brand’s showcase of a men's line in Hong Kong last year

Louis Vuitton unveiled its latest ‘Voyager’ travelling show in Shanghai to much fanfare, showcasing avant-garde designs amidst the vibrant backdrop of China's bustling metropolis. The event, held on Thursday night, attracted over 1,000 esteemed guests, including international luminaries like Cate Blanchett and homegrown sensations Zhou Dongyu and Jackson Wang. 

Designed by women's artistic director Nicolas Ghesquière, the pre-fall collection captivated attendees with its fusion of asymmetrical hemlines and structured leather vests, Reuters reported.

The show found its stage within the expansive confines of the Long Museum, an architectural marvel nestled in Shanghai's West Bund art district, designed by Atelier Deshaus. Here, fashion enthusiasts were treated to an immersive experience, with pieces crafted in collaboration with Beijing-based artist Sun Yitian. Sun's signature artwork, featuring meticulously painted photographs of inflatable animals, adorned the opening designs, adding a whimsical touch to the runway.

In the lead-up to the event, Shanghai was abuzz with anticipation as images of Sun's creations adorned the city's landscape, projected onto the facades of malls and adorning walls in trendy shopping precincts. This spectacle underscored the city's status as a global fashion hub and a key market for luxury brands like Louis Vuitton.

For Louis Vuitton, China remains a cornerstone of its growth strategy within the luxury market. Despite broader economic challenges, the brand continues to see robust demand from Chinese consumers. LVMH reported a 3% increase in year-on-year sales for the quarter ending in March, with purchases by Chinese shoppers globally surging by 10%. This reaffirms China's position as one of the most significant opportunities for luxury brands, even amidst a backdrop of economic uncertainty.

The debut of the ‘Voyager’ show in Shanghai follows Louis Vuitton's successful men's line showcase in Hong Kong last year, demonstrating the brand's commitment to engaging with Chinese consumers on multiple fronts and solidifying its presence in the region's thriving luxury landscape.

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