Here’s the review via WWD: Brands are playing to their strengths and this was writ large at Louis Vuitton, where Marc Jacobs and Paul Helbers, men’s wear studio director, put accessories and luxury travel front and center.

Describing this quiet collection as “the traveling wardrobe of an African King, adapting his taste for a trip to Paris,” Helbers opted for tailoring which was more French than African. Military jackets in antelope leather or alligator were faintly reminiscent of the tribal theme that pulsed through Vuitton’s latest women’s show. “(It’s) much more subtle and I think that’s good in men’s so you don’t have costume party going on,” Jacobs said.


Faint prints of flora and fauna crept on to formal satin jackets, which were paired with a generous trouser shape, pleated in the front for a draped effect. A slate blue cashmere coat was elegantly belted at the waist while a double-breasted velvet jacket was worn with vivid red sneakers designed by Kanye West. Hoodies, scarves and knit hats added a sporty edge to many looks.

But no European safari is complete without luggage and the Vuitton man won’t be traveling lightly. Bag after bag of every description appeared, from a Keepall built like a soccer ball – a wink to African’s passion for the sport – to a monogrammed trunk that had to be wheeled down the runway.

Detail shots coming soon…

Image via Giovanni Giannoni