Apsara Gurung

Inspired by the aesthetics of video gaming, designer Nicholas Ghesquiere paid an ode to the digital era during Louis Vuitton’s Spring 2016 show at Paris Fashion Week. Held in a tent-like building designed by Frank Ghery, the fresh concept set included monstrous screens acting as walls with monitors floating seamlessly around the catwalk, acquainted by beams of streaking lights and upbeat, techno music that intensified the futurist movement.

 

The show was opened by pink haired Fernanda Ly who had an uncanny resemblance to the brand’s newest face and muse: a world where social networks and communications are now seamlessly woven into our life.”Lightening from the cult video game, ‘Final Fantasy’. Ghesquiere claimed her “[a] perfect avatar for a global, heroic woman and for

 

The collection showcased a range of intergalactic warrior-esque pieces with a modern twist. An army of warrior princesses marched down the runway sporting leather knuckledusters with printed house monogram – ready for battle. Effortless hair by Paul Hanlon and Pat McGrath’s statement flirty lashes reminiscent of manga characters stayed constant throughout the show accompanied by the occasional headpieces similar to that of ‘Sailor Moon’.

 

Dyed silk and blue denim jumpsuits were spotted along with onyx utilitarian leather coats with gold hardware paired with a ruched silver bubble skirt reminiscent of the 80s. A fiery red drawstring bag completed the look with the strings carelessly wrapped around the fist. Furthermore, traditionally feminine pieces such as miniskirts were toughened up with the use of jet black leather, heavy nail-head embellishments and paired with chunky, black leather flatforms with chain detailing. Whereas, pops of ochre leather shorts added colour to the range. Bold, pointy snakeskin heeled boots with silver toes also made an appearance alongside heavily encrusted holographic dresses.  

 

Also, some romantic pieces were juxtaposed amongst the dynamic ensembles – a loose-fit, floor-sweeping cotton peasant dress in blush pink with stormy grey floral appliques and a navy, voluminous cape with burgundy and moss green tribal prints; accessorised with a metal choker.

 

Throughout the catwalk it was evident that the visionary designer’s aim was to take a heritage brand and move it towards the future. His departure from his previous collections took a much more experimental turn in the SS16 range, revolutionising the relationship between fashion and technology. Thus, making Ghesquiere’s inventive version of the future the perfect way to end Paris Fashion Week.