Louis Vuitton fuses tradition and modernity in Cruise 2018 collection

 French luxury label Louis Vuitton presented its Cruise 2018 collection, Sunday, May 14, in the spectacular setting of the Miho Museum in the mountains surrounding Kyoto, Japan. The choice of location was no coincidence, symbolizing the perfect fusion between fashion, urban cityscapes and nature, all key inspirations in this new collection, which also references Japanese culture.

After Chanel's Parisian presentation, Prada's Milan show and Dior's event in Los Angeles, Louis Vuitton is the latest fashion house to reveal its Cruise 2018 collection. The show was held in the breathtaking setting of the Miho Museum, designed by the architect I. M. Pei and opened in 1997, which is nestled in a lush green decor.

"I visited the Miho Museum a few years ago and was fascinated by I.M. Pei's concept of the harmony between architecture and nature. Japan is a country I know well. It was one of the first places I traveled to when I was seeking inspiration, some 20 years ago, and I've been a regular visitor ever since. This collection is the culmination of what Japan has given to me for a very long time," said Louis Vuitton creative director Nicolas Ghesquière in a statement.

With this collection, the designer has fused the urban and the organic, tradition and modernity, futurism and poetry. The collection also channels inspirations from Japanese culture, such as samurai, traditional dress and martial arts, for example.

Standout pieces include short sequin-covered dresses featuring colorful character headshots that sparkle and shine, as well as sweaters in interlaced jersey and leather, gold-colored evening dresses and bags inspired by Kabuki masks.

The collection also features two noteworthy collaborations. Designer Kansaï Yamamoto, who attended the show, designed icons, symbols and characters for certain garments and accessories in the Cruise 2018 collection, and designer Kristopher Haigh created hats for the collection.