Brace yourselves – Louis Vuitton just dropped a trainer so plush, so pillowy, so buttersoft it makes clouds look a little rough around the edges. Enter: the LV Buttersoft Sneaker. A Pharrell Williams-designed, Italian-handcrafted slice of sneaker heaven that’s part streetwear sermon, part dandy daydream.
Unveiled in the AW25 men’s collection, co-created with Nigo, this runner is no ordinary sole mate. It comes in a 24-strong wardrobe of colourways – moody jewel tones, delicate pastels, even a monogram moment – each wrapped in leather so supple it practically sighs when you step. Pharrell’s cheeky ‘Phriendship’ face grins from the tongue, while the LV stamp marks its street-meets-salon territory.
This is a shoe that struts between worlds. It has the silhouette of a classic runner, but the soul (and sole) of a Savile Row brogue. There’s the grain de riz of the house’s Damier pattern carved into the rubber base, enchape patches borrowed from LV’s finest leather goods and if you squint at the heel… yes, that’s a tiny lobster. Because Pharrell and Nigo said so.
The accompanying campaign is fronted by newly-engaged house ambassador Callum Turner, who brings brooding Brit energy to the sneaker’s creamy charisma. Whether you’re lacing up to hit the cobblestones or the front row, this is footwear that’s loud and luxe, with just enough ‘00s hip-hop nods to make you want to dig out your blinged-out Nokia. Soft power has never looked so slick.
Now available for pre-order, the LV Buttersoft sneaker hits stores July 10. Pre-order here.
Photography courtesy of Louis Vuitton.
