I found the Louis Vuitton Mens Fall/Winter 2026 show to be more difficult than I had anticipated. Was it good? Yes. Was it mid? Also yes, but in so many more ways than one.
Pharrell Williams has been the Creative Director of LV Men for almost three years, and the argument of mediocrity has always come up. So specifically, why was this season so . . . ehh to everyone, except me?
As the show opened, I was taken aback. In the center of a staging area, there was a house. Many questioned the purpose of the structure, but as the models walked in and explored their surroundings, I too started to explore. Instantly the decor, vinyl records lining the walls, the unforgettable green couch in the middle of one of the rooms, and the brown pieced-together blocky sitting area was screaming mid-century modern. The architecture, with huge rounded glass walls, low peaking rooftop, a plethora of wood detailing inside and out, and landscaping completed this “inside – outside” feeling, adding to the overall ambience.
The first few models went into the house, walked around and viewed their surroundings intently, as if it were the first time they’d seen it themselves, finally ending by putting on a record, signalling the significance music would hold throughout this show, similarly to all of Williams’ other seasons. There was a live choir, the Voices of Fire, an orchestra, l’Orchestre du Pont Neuf, and performances showcasing new unreleased music from Jackson Wang, A$AP Rocky, Quavo, John Legend, and Pusha T. It was these little details, not just the clothing, that stuck out to me. It truly reflected the life and mind of the person creating. We can take a deep dive into his brain, pick out individual pieces, and relate to them.
Throughout the show the clothing, just as the house was displaying, started to unveil more mid-century elements. The large trenchcoats, the tie like scarfs, and foggy raincoats, all filled this craving that I personally could kill for. The collection featured so many different garments, with varied materials and textures for each. From silk that was made to look like leather, to aluminum threaded jackets, these pieces had a dialogue with their background, synergizing with the house.
Louis Vuitton Men’s FW26 collection was a culmination of quiet luxury and functionality. This conversation, the difference between a ready to wear collection and haute couture, needs to be had in the fashion industry. I find that the brand Williams is building for Louis Vuitton Mens is clearly minimal, but it is his focus on the details that compose his passions.
Words and Graphics by Connor Crankshaw