Louis Vuitton and Murakami have joined forces to revive their iconic partnership that rose to fame in the early aughts. With the recent return of Y2k fashion, this revival comes at a nearly perfect time for both the fashion house and the Japanese artist. The re-edition collection will be released in a series of chapters featuring the artist’s iconic rainbow flowers on Louis Vuitton’s most sought-after pieces from handbags to shoes to ready-to-wear. The partners are celebrating chapter one of their latest collaboration with an experiential pop-up in Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood for the month of January.
Drawing design inspiration from Tokyo’s famous modular hotels, the pop-up’s minimalist interior is divided into distinct areas – each with a specific purpose and bold color theme. Serving as the only fully dedicated pop-up space in the country dedicated to the re-edition, guests are invited to discover the full complement of Louis Vuitton x Murakami Chapter One offerings, an exhibition space showcasing the archival selections from the infamous original collection, a fully operational care station devoted to original pieces, and a cafe serving specialty drinks and baked goods. Downstairs, a cinema space plays two Superflat movies by Takashi Murakami that first accompanied the 2003 launch.
Guests are welcome to shop the latest drop of the collaboration which includes the colorful Monogram Multicolore, the whimsical Superflat Panda and Superflat Garden. Those who make a purchase will receive a special token to activate the on-site oversized vending machine which is stocked with Louis Vuitton x Murakami stickers, trading cards, and Flower Go Walk portable games. Through the pop-up, visitors will step back in time and get an inside look at the original Louis Vuitton x Murakami collection with a presentation of the archival leather goods that garnered popularity in the early 2000s. The care station exemplifies Louis Vuitton’s dedication to excellent craftsmanship and commitment to sustainability by supporting the longevity of the house’s creations from the partnership’s pieces from the original collections. A complete suite of services are offered like replacement pieces, canvas cleaning, and restoration of hand painted motifs.
Delving further, the cinema showcases a kaleidoscopic imaginary journey into the past with the viewing of Murakami’s Superflat Monogram Film (first released in 2003) and Superflat First Love film (released in 2009), both remastered in commemoration of the artist’s re-edition collection. Lastly, guests can enjoy cinnamon cappuccinos, rooibos latte, vegan hot chocolate, and bespoke panda-shaped pastries in the comfort of Murakami’s iconic flower cushions. Each treat is served with custom Louis Vuitton x Murakami cups and napkins.