LV Men's Spring Summer S26 Collection: A Passage to India

Louis Vuitton’s Men’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection was a vivid homage to Indian sartorialism. Pharrell, the brand’s creative director, drew inspiration from his personal journey through India. The show celebrated the country’s urban vibrancy, awash in bold hues and layered textures, while also showing deep appreciation for the textiles and embroidery of its craftsmen. From the immersive set design to the rhythmic beats, everything came together in a way that felt serene yet grounded and reflected the relevance of time itself, the ever-relevant thread in both fashion and luxury.

What does an ancient Indian board game have to do with high fashion in Paris? Everything, if you ask Bijoy Jain. Starting with the set design, the space was envisioned by architect Bijoy Jain of Studio Mumbai. His concept was to bring to life the game of Snakes and Ladders, symbolizing the creative risks one takes in fashion. It reflects the belief that the most successful creations often emerge without knowing the outcome. The game becomes a metaphor for life’s unpredictable journey, not a race, but a slow, intentional climb. Jain transformed the Pompidou Centre in Paris into this living metaphor, with a floor crafted from timber, local marble, and colored stone, arranged in a weathered interpretation of Louis Vuitton’s iconic Damier check. And here’s some good news for art and architecture enthusiasts: Pharrell shared in a statement that he wanted something more than just a stage, something alive and lasting. So, Bijoy, Pharrell, and Reliance Industries plan to bring this set design to Mumbai as a public park (Elle Decor).

AR Rahman collaborated with Pharrell to produce a Punjabi track, Yaara, which played during the show. A video shared by Rahman on his Instagram captured global celebrities, including Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and many more, vibing to the music. It was a proud moment for Indian music, as it received global recognition alongside tracks by Western artists like Clipse, Voices of Fire, and Doechii. 

The entire collection showcased colours and hues inspired by India’s urban aesthetics. Think shades of grey, indigo, and coffee bean, a distinct take on denim that moves away from classic American blue jeans. Then came the spices: cinnamon, turmeric, and other earthy hues that brought to mind the textures and tones of a crowded street or sunlit market. The result was a fresh perspective on urban style, rooted in tradition but entirely modern in execution.

This collection isn’t meant to be consumed in a single glance, nor is it designed to go viral or chase trends, and that's exactly its strength. It's asking to be studied, and appreciated layer by layer. Its beauty lies in the slow reveal, in the intricate details of elements that have been westernised over time, weaving in a thoughtful blend of East-meets-West ideology, a sentiment once brought to life by Wes Anderson in his iconic The Darjeeling Limited.

Now, let’s talk about the looks, because this is where the collection really came alive. Think precise tailoring blended with spontaneous layering and mountaineering-inspired pieces. From the intentional mismatching of waistcoats and trousers to the softness in the structure of each look, there was a thoughtful tension throughout.

What really caught my eye were the details: prints inspired by Madras checks, metal yarn work, aged gold trims, VVN leather loops, and the beautifully worn feel of vintage leather. There was even a clear nod to the LV x The Darjeeling Limited collection, with the same animal motif appearing on white jackets and bags. What stood out most was how Pharrell introduced softness into tailored pieces, layering tanks under blazers, pairing khadi trousers with leather flip-flops (yes, chappals on the runway!). The embellished hiking jackets truly stole the spotlight. And throughout the collection, there was playful experimentation with fabric, each layer adding something new without overpowering the whole in the most unexpected and harmonious way.

The collection may not have introduced something entirely new, but it offered a fresh twist on time-honoured classics, blending familiar elements into a new narrative. Even rugged staples, like mountaineering socks and jackets were reimagined with a sense of softness. 

To me, this collection shines a much-needed positive light on Indian sartorialism. Just a few days after the debut of the Pradapuri chappals, I’ve watched influencers proudly style them, marking a quiet but visible shift. Now, with this Louis Vuitton collection, the momentum only grows. 

India is clearly reaching new heights in the world of luxury, but I still notice a lack of pride when something is labelled “Made in India.” Why is it that “Made in France” or “Made in Italy” instantly evokes craftsmanship and artistic prestige, while “Made in India” is often overlooked or taken for granted?

If we want to become a true leader in global fashion, not just in numbers but in recognition, we need to stop simply following trends and start creating them. It’s time we stop waiting for validation from Western brands before appreciating the beauty of Indian craftsmanship ourselves. Pharrell didn’t steal Indian art forms; in fact, I believe he celebrated them. He presented them with grace, mixing them with a global lens of India, yes, but in a way that brought out their vibrance. He offered a platform to patterns and colours that have long been neglected at home. Now it’s our responsibility to pick up that spotlight and turn it inward.

References

Elle Decor. (2025, June 26). Louis Vuitton’s Latest Show Was a Giant Game of Snakes and Ladders. Yahoo News. Retrieved 06 26, 2025, from https://uk.news.yahoo.com/louis-vuitton-latest-show-giant-213300128.html