Louis Vuitton’s renowned Bed Trunk, an artifact steeped in history, has been reimagined through a collaboration between Pharrell Williams and Nicolas Ghesquière, melding past elegance with contemporary flair. This iconic piece, first introduced by George Vuitton in 1868, was a staple for aristocrats and explorers, providing a semblance of comfort and stability amid their travels. Now, as travel and luxury take on new meanings, the Louis Vuitton Malle Lit has returned, transformed yet respecting its storied heritage.
The reintroduction of the Louis Vuitton Bed Trunk last April was met with enthusiasm, but the latest iteration from Pharrell Williams, the men’s creative director of the Maison, takes it a step further. Drawing inspiration from a distressed striped canvas reminiscent of the 1870s, Williams has crafted an aesthetic that nods to the trunk’s origins while making a bold contemporary statement. His version, tagged the Malle Lit Pharrell Williams, is priced at €160,000 (approximately US8,000), and features an exterior of vintage-inspired stripes paired with a strikingly vibrant interior of red and white stripes.
The trunk’s design is complemented by a jacquard mattress and pillow, both embroidered with the ‘LV Lovers’ logo, a signature touch by Pharrell that adds a personal and modern twist to the historical piece. The use of these elements not only revitalizes the trunk but also embeds it with a sense of current trends in luxury design.
Nicolas Ghesquière, artistic director of women’s collections at Louis Vuitton, has also left his mark on the Malle Lit, contributing to a version that aligns with his visionary approach to fashion. Ghesquière is known for his ability to fuse historical influences with cutting-edge design, and his interpretation of the Bed Trunk is no exception. His design echoes the innovation and craftsmanship inherent in Louis Vuitton’s legacy but does so through a lens that is distinctly modern and forward-thinking.
The technical aspects of the Louis Vuitton Bed Trunk remain impressive. The trunk retains its original foldable structure, crafted from aluminum and beech wood, which underscores Louis Vuitton’s commitment to craftsmanship and durability. Yet, under the guidance of Williams and Ghesquière, these materials are transformed to reflect contemporary aesthetics without sacrificing their functional roots.
The Malle Lit not only serves as a functional piece of travel equipment but also as a collector’s item that bridges the historical with the modern. It stands as a testament to Louis Vuitton’s enduring appeal and its ability to adapt and thrive within the ever-evolving fashion industry. The trunk, through its various iterations, has witnessed the world change, serving aristocrats, explorers, and now, modern travelers and collectors who appreciate both its utility and its artistry.
The latest reimagining of the luxury brand Louis Vuitton Bed Trunk by Pharrell Williams and Nicolas Ghesquière is a confluence of history, art, and luxury. It encapsulates a journey not only through the world but through time, maintaining the essence of its original purpose while embracing the innovations and stylistic shifts of today’s luxury landscape. For those who seek a piece of history infused with contemporary artistry, the Malle Lit Pharrell Williams stands as a pinnacle of cultural craftsmanship, offering more than just a place to rest — it offers a story, a journey, and a dream.
