The details matter significantly, but what delineates the boundaries of quality, caliber, and artistry? One perspective might be evident design elements, distinctive symbols or the extensive effort invested by highly skilled workshops. Alternatively, it could be the visual specifics present in a garment — such as the materials, seams, patterns or the way leather is manipulated. Another aspect is a personalized, unique quality that not only characterizes the Maison but is also challenging to reproduce. In the realm of fashion, this is often referred to as “artisanal skills” or the technical expertise involved in the creative process of producing custom pieces. LUXUO explores diverse aspects of artistry and caliber through a selection of the latest offerings from major luxury fashion labels.
Louis Vuitton The GO-14 Bag
The GO-14 bag represents the fusion of design expertise and artistic innovation. A reinterpretation of one of Nicolas Ghesquière’s initial creations — hence its coded moniker: Ghesquière October 2014 — the bag was introduced during Ghesquière’s debut collection as the artistic director for women at Louis Vuitton. The malletage motif evokes the essence of the Maison’s heritage in trunk-making, harking back to the crisscross patterned pads found inside trunks.
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Presently, the GO-14 is crafted as a lambskin bag padded with soft malletage, accented by stitching that accentuates the design’s contours and plush feel. The GO-14 showcases remarkable skill and stands as a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy. The crafting process involves over 20 distinct stages, with meticulous attention to detail in achieving a satin or toasted finish on the patina and refining the subtle gradient of colors. A highly precise technique is necessary for applying the 17-meter long trim for the rounded malletage of each GO-14. This demands a more intricate savoir-faire compared to traditional quilting. Creating the GO-14 necessitates the supreme expertise of Louis Vuitton’s workshops.
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Valentino Altorilievo
Valentino shares insights into their exceptional craftsmanship of Italian origin with the introduction of the Valentino Altorilievo. Altorilievo is a novel technique coined by Valentino that involves sculpting fabric into three-dimensional forms, creating lifelike representations such as Baroque foliage, fruits, flowers, and animals that envelop the body. The technique pays homage to women — tailored around the body, the wearer becomes an integral part of its design.
Designs in grisaille mimic these forms as sections of fabric are removed to expose the skin. Across the collection, prints featuring pomegranates, pineapples, and blossoms introduce a “modern renaissance.” The inclusion of mythological elements like gryphons and sirens on certain outfits offer a fresh perspective, while their timeless geometric shapes transform into intricate patterns covering the garments.
Dior Gravity
Dior Gravity leather, conceptualized by Kim Jones, showcases the iconic Dior Oblique pattern. This extraordinary fabric elevates a range of designs from the Dior Fall 2024 line, such as the Messenger and the Weekender, alongside a belt and a cardholder.
These patterns are also illustrated on a variety of sophisticated footwear, including the B33 and B27 sneakers.
Gucci Horsebit 1953 Loafer
Initially unveiled in 1953, the Horsebit loafer encapsulates the spirit of equestrian-inspired elegance. The Horsebit 1953 loafer, envisioned by Sabato De Sarno, stands as a symbol of Gucci’s dedication to redefining grace for contemporary times. This shoe seamlessly melds the past with the present, demonstrating the loafer’s transformation into a representation of athletic, informal, and alluring sophistication. The double ring and bar, initially introduced in the late 1940s as an ornamental symbol in Gucci’s collections, takes cues from the realm of horseback riding — a beloved pursuit among the House’s discerning customers.
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Ralph Lauren RL 888 Bag
Ralph Lauren’s RL 888 assortment pays homage to the label’s flagship store at 888 Madison Avenue in New York City. The RL 888 Top Handle draws inspiration from the architecture of Ralph Lauren’s birthplace. Featuring a dual-compartment interior, a top handle, and a detachable, adjustable crossbody strap adorned with two polished keepers, each bag is meticulously crafted by hand and individually produced in Italy using top-tier materials.
Handcrafted by artisans in Florence, the bag’s body is meticulously formed from 36 flawless pieces of premium Italian box calfskin. Its aniline finish and sturdy texture contribute to the bag’s well-defined shape, complemented by a soft nappa lambskin lining. Demonstrating elegant functionality and opulent design, the iconic “RL” monogram is transformed into a striking push-lock closure available in palladium, brass, or champagne finishes. Finishing touches such as subtle bombé filling on the flap and hand-painted edges exemplify Ralph Lauren’s dedication to intricate craftsmanship.
Giorgio Armani Bespoke Italian Tailoring
Giorgio Armani’s mastery of tailoring is showcased in his Made to Measure suits, blending the renowned Armani essence with the superior craftsmanship of personalized tailoring. The designer explains, “I observed a desire among some clients for a one-of-a-kind garment tailored specifically for them. This led me to establish a made-to-measure service offering the benefits of a tailor-made piece — unique fit, fabric, lining, buttons, and details. This service harmonizes tradition and innovation, fusing tailoring artistry with contemporary design aesthetics.” The Giorgio Armani Made to Measure service has gained a growing following since its introduction.
Initially limited to a few global outlets, the service is now available in nearly every Giorgio Armani store, managed by highly skilled specialists. Every aspect of the suit is meticulously crafted, from the lining and button style to the specific cut, lapel type, pocket placements, single or double-breasted design, and the choice of pleated or flat-front trousers. The end result is an exclusive suit tailored to the client’s preferences.
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