Louis Vuitton’s 2003 boundary-breaking collaboration with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami will go down in history as one of the most wanted artistic collaborations of our time. The original collection contained some of the most coveted bags of the 2000s, like the Multicolore Speedy, Nano Speedy, and Alma.
Now, with the ionic duo reuniting once again, the pair is cementing itself in modern handbag history with a revival collection that’s bringing its popularity to new heights.
Officially debuting earlier this month, Chapter 1 of Louis Vuitton x Murakami includes dozens of items from re-editions of icons like the Alma and Nano Speedy to new bags dressed in Multicolore Monogram like the Carryall and Side Trunk.
The collection debuted to intense fanfare, with bags selling out instantaneously and fans anxiously hoping to get their hands on something from it.
NYC friends, buckle up because you’re in luck; the Louis Vuitton x Murakami pop-up has just opened in SoHo, and we’re bringing you along on press day to get an inside look.
Handbag History
Drawing design inspiration from Tokyo’s famous modular hotels, the pop-up, which is located at 104 Prince Street in Soho, is part boutique, part art gallery, with a significant amount of space dedicated to showcasing archival pieces from the original collection.
There is also a care station dedicated to reviving and repairing first-generation Louis Vuitton x Murakami pieces. Menu-style services include replacement pieces, cleanings, and restorations.
Tucked beneath a stairwell completely lined in black Monogram Multicolore is a cinema room that plays animated films: the Superflat Monogram Film, first released in 2003, and the Superflat First Love film, which debuted in 2009. Both have been remastered in commemoration of Takashi Murakami’s revival collection.
A stop at the cinema is complete with a pit stop at the pop-up’s cafe, which is accessible to guests who’ve made a purchase this weekend only (1/10-1/12). Complimentary drinks include espresso beverages, a cinnamon cappuccino, vegan hot chocolate, and more, all served with custom Louis Vuitton x Murakami cups and napkins.
Shop the Collection
Open now through the end of January, the pop-up is distinctly separated by bold colors, with each room having a specific purpose. The green room offers a bit of history, while the pretty in-pink section will serve up your daily dose of caffeine.
To shop the collection, which features more than 170 of the Maison’s creations, including belts, bags, shoes, and more, dive into the orange room. There, you’ll find a giant display of LV x TK bags, while other bags and accessories are spread out within the space’s central corridor.
The Soho pop-up is the only fully dedicated space for the re-edition collection in the United States, though there are other pop-ups around the world, such as Singapore, Milan, Tokyo, and London. Come with us on a colorful journey below, and for more, visit louisvuitton.com
Featured image courtesy of Louis Vuitton
