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 'LV Tilted' sneaker, a recent addition to the footwear branch, embodies this spirit of disruption, rooted in Thibo Denis' philosophy of 'disturbing the rules'.
In an exclusive interview with Hypebeast, Denis and Mathias Patillon revealed the intricate design process behind this groundbreaking shoe, from initial concepts to the final product.
The Birth of an Idea
The journey began with a vision for a skate-inspired shoe, even before Denis joined the team. It was Pharrell's arrival at Louis Vuitton that sparked the project. At a show a year prior, friendship and skate culture were central themes, and the team brought forward ideas, with Pharrell having a specific vision for the shoe.
Patillon explained, 'Skateboard P' was the driving force behind the design. Pharrell's passion for skate culture and his desire for a unique shoe inspired the team to create something new and exciting.
Playfulness and Proportion
The key to making the shoe playful was proportion, according to Denis. The team debated the shape, considering rounded or pointed designs and the coverage of the sole. They decided to add a rounded angle to the cup sole, challenging traditional skate shoe aesthetics.
Patillon added, 'We wanted to elevate the skate shoe with premium leather and suede, as requested by Pharrell. The 'Tilted' name on the tongue is a nod to his influence and the research we did on his previous collaborations.'
Technical Challenges and Details
The technical aspects of the shoe presented unique challenges. Patillon highlighted the need for precise proportions, especially with Pharrell's request for a shoe that couldn't distinguish between left and right feet. The distorted monogram on the sole required careful execution without resorting to outdated techniques.
Denis noted the complexity of the shoe's profile, with no straight lines. They aimed for rounded elements, like the stitching near the toe cap, and the color combination of natural leather and suede. The team's attention to detail and focus on quality materials were paramount.
Collaborative Effort and Final Product
The collaboration between Denis, Patillon, and Pharrell resulted in a shoe that combines their collective expertise. Denis emphasized the importance of proportion, ensuring the shoe's visual appeal and comfort. Patillon added, 'The details are simple, but achieving perfection requires meticulous work.'
The 'LV Tilted' sneaker is a testament to the power of collaboration and the team's dedication to pushing boundaries. It's a shoe that not only pays homage to skate culture but also showcases Louis Vuitton's innovative spirit and Pharrell's unique vision.
