Layla Ong Takes Monogram Mania For A Spin In Louis Vuitton's Since 1854 Capsule

Louis Vuitton’s Monogram needs no introduction — but its latest interpretation just might. Debuting as a capsule within the main Fall/Winter 2020 collection, the new Since 1854 symbol is artistic director Nicolas Ghesquière’s tribute to the storied heritage and nonpareil craftsmanship of the luxury house, conveyed through the geometric language of the Louis Vuitton’s iconic, instantly identifiable insignia.

Designed by Georges-Louis Vuitton some four decades after the Maison’s founding in 1854 (hence the capsule’s name) the Monogram, with its interlocking LV initials and quatrefoil flowers, is thought to be variously inspired by the patterned tiles of the Vuitton family home in Asnières, Neo-Gothic architecture and the heraldic kamon crests of Japanese clans (Japonism was all the rage in Paris during the late 1800s).

Ghesquière’s take on the label’s timeless emblem sees the inscription “1854” enclosed within a series of concave diamonds — where the loops of the figure “8” are acuminated into pointed petals — that are interwoven (literally) with the other Monogram motifs in jacquard canvas in two colourways, dark grey and Bordeaux burgundy.

Fifty-six vintage-inflected pieces of ready-to-wear and accessories are given the Since 1854 treatment, including a preppy blazer, a fit-and-flare mini dress, a knit polo top and jogging shorts as well as the Dauphine, Petit Noé and Neverfull bags and the Metropolis boot, Beaubourg platform derby and Archlight sneaker.

First seen in the October 2020 issue of L'Officiel Singapore