Louis Vuitton's 'LV Tilted' Sneaker: A Skateboarder's Dream
Pharrell's collaboration with Louis Vuitton is all about breaking the mold while paying homage to the brand's rich history and iconic style. The latest footwear creation, the 'LV Tilted' sneaker, embodies this spirit of disruption, rooted in the idea of 'disturbing the rules.'
Thibo Denis and Mathias Patillon, key members of the design team, sat down with Hypebeast to reveal the intricate process behind this groundbreaking shoe. From its inception to the final product, every detail was meticulously crafted to capture the essence of both Pharrell's and Louis Vuitton's aesthetics.
The Birth of an Idea
The design journey began even before Thibo Denis joined the team. The concept of a skate-inspired cup sole shoe was already on the table when Pharrell joined Louis Vuitton. The idea of 'Skateboard P' emerged, reflecting Pharrell's passion for skateboarding and his desire for a unique shoe that would stand out from the crowd.
Mathias Patillon explained, "We wanted to create a new category for ourselves, something that would be both playful and technically advanced. We wanted to incorporate all the DNA of Louis Vuitton, both the classic and the modern, and create something that would be a departure from our previous, more technical models."
Playfulness and Proportion
The design team focused on making the shoe feel playful while maintaining a sense of proportion. Denis emphasized, "Everything is about proportion. We wanted to add a rounded angle to the cup sole, disturbing the rules and creating a unique visual appeal."
The team drew inspiration from Pharrell's previous collaborations, such as the ICE CREAM logo on the soles of his sneakers with BAPE and Billionaire Boys Club. Patillon added, "We wanted to create a shoe that people would instantly recognize as a Pharrell x Louis Vuitton creation, while also paying homage to the era of the 2000s skate culture."
Technical Challenges and Attention to Detail
The technical aspects of the shoe presented unique challenges. Patillon noted, "We had to be super picky about proportions, especially ensuring that the shoe couldn't tell the left foot from the right. The distorted monogram on the sole was a complex task, but we avoided using old techniques. We wanted something light, grippy, and modern."
Denis elaborated, "Many technical details seem simple, but they are incredibly tricky to manage. From the rounded toe to the stitching of the upper, every element required careful consideration. The color combination of natural leather and suede was a challenge, but we prioritized quality and consistency in the design language."
Collaborative Effort and Final Product
The collaboration between Pharrell and the design team was a harmonious blend of ideas and expertise. Patillon stated, "Pharrell's input was invaluable. He pushed us to find the right details and create a unique language for Louis Vuitton."
Denis added, "It's a collaborative process. Pharrell is extremely particular about the leather and its fabrication. We prioritized the finest materials, even if it meant using different leathers for the shoe's lining. The result is a shoe that embodies the perfect fusion of style and technical excellence."
The 'LV Tilted' sneaker is a testament to Louis Vuitton's commitment to innovation and its ability to create footwear that transcends trends, capturing the essence of both tradition and disruption.
