Pharrell Williams makes his debut as the creative director for LOUIS VUITTON, igniting his unique perspective with the unveiling of the new Speedy bag. This iconic adaptation is showcased in a captivating campaign featuring Rihanna, photographed by Keiz? Kitajima and Martine Syms. Released shortly after Williams’ inaugural show, the campaign expands upon his creative direction for the Maison’s men’s collection.
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The new Speedy bag represents the fusion of two everyday icons—a luxury bag grounded in reality and an artist with universal appeal. Styled by Cynthia Lu and Matthew Henson, Williams’ long-time collaborators, the campaign introduces visual elements inspired by Canal Street, a culturally vibrant location in Lower Manhattan. The new Speedy, derived from the classic design, reflects the spirit of Canal Street through its unique visual language.
Featuring a pregnant Rihanna, an embodiment of empowerment and everyday icon, the men’s campaign signifies Pharrell Williams’ re-contextualization approach at Louis Vuitton. The new Speedy maintains the trapezoid lines of the classic design but incorporates supple grained calf leather and fine lambskin lining for a softer and more versatile construction. The silkscreen-printed Monogram pattern adds a hand-painted effect in multiple colors across various dimensions.
The new Speedy’s design emphasizes wearability and adaptability, evolving from its origins as the Express leather travel bag created by Gaston-Louis Vuitton in 1930. The Speedy gained iconic status when it was relaunched in Monogram canvas in 1959, capturing the attention of fashion icons like Audrey Hepburn.
Throughout its nearly century-long existence, the Speedy has inspired countless artistic interpretations and remains an enduring symbol of Louis Vuitton’s legacy.
