December 27, 2024 |
Louis Vuitton and Takashi Murakami are once again redefining the boundaries of fashion and art as they celebrate the 20-year anniversary of their iconic collaboration. First launched in 2003, the partnership between the luxury house and the celebrated Japanese artist revolutionised the fashion world, blending Murakami’s vibrant, pop-inspired artistry – a singular fusion of traditional Japanese art, sci fi, anime and whimsical kawaii characters – with Louis Vuitton’s storied heritage. Now, in 2025, their creative bond is rekindled in a dazzling re-edition collection that honours their shared legacy while pushing the limits of contemporary design.
The Louis Vuitton × Murakami collection reimagines the original collaboration with an expansive assortment of over 200 pieces that showcase the joyful interplay of art and craftsmanship. At its core is Murakami’s groundbreaking reinterpretation of Louis Vuitton’s iconic Monogram. Originally introduced by then-artistic director Marc Jacobs, the Monogram Multicolore broke new ground as the first-ever reworking of the house’s emblem. This motif, rendered in 33 vivid colours, now returns brighter and more precise than ever, thanks to advancements in digital printing and the unmatched savoir-faire of Louis Vuitton artisans.
The collection features a stunning array of the house’s most beloved creations. The Monogram Multicolore graces the Speedy 25, Alma BB and Dauphine Soft bags, as well as an assortment of small leather goods, including Nano Speedy clutches and sleek wallets. For the ultimate collector, the highlight is a made-to-order Malle Wardrobe, a luxurious trunk housing 33 Speedy bags, each adorned with Murakami’s signature designs. Fans of the artist’s whimsical aesthetic will also rejoice at the return of his beloved Superflat Panda, now featured on everything from the OnTheGo PM Chain bag to skateboards and key rings.
Beyond bags and accessories, the collaboration extends to an eclectic range of items, including wedge espadrilles, silk scarves, and even perfumes. Attrape-Rêves fragrance bottles are adorned with the smiley flowers of Murakami’s Superflat Garden motif, adding an enchanting touch to the collection. A second chapter of the collection, featuring Murakami’s Cherry Blossom motif, will debut in March, bringing a floral element into the collaboration just in time for spring.
The meticulous craftsmanship behind the collection is matched only by its vibrant creativity. Advances in printing technology have allowed Louis Vuitton to achieve unprecedented clarity and colour saturation, elevating the intricate details of Murakami’s characters and motifs. Each piece is a testament to the seamless blending of traditional techniques with cutting-edge innovation, capturing the essence of what made the original collaboration a cultural phenomenon.
This re-edition is more than a fashion collection – it’s a celebration too. Louis Vuitton is gearing up to host an immersive global launch that will include captivating window displays, pop-ups and in-store activations designed to transport audiences into the dynamic world of Louis Vuitton × Murakami. A dedicated advertising campaign will further highlight the enduring appeal of the collaboration, which has captivated collectors, fashion enthusiasts, and art lovers for two decades.
Twenty years after they first came together, Louis Vuitton and Takashi Murakami continue to prove that true creativity knows no bounds. This collection serves as a joyful tribute to their original partnership while reaffirming their commitment to pushing the limits of art and fashion. With chapter one available worldwide starting January 1, 2025, Louis Vuitton × Murakami invites a new generation to cherish a collaboration that remains as covetable and distinctly cool today as it was two decades ago.
Photography courtesy of Louis Vuitton.
