Updating both formal and casual, with an All-American twist, with Louis Vuitton’s cruise collection

With its high ceiling, indoor pool area, and a magnificent view of the city, Oakwood Ortigas was the apt venue for showing Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2010 collection, conveying luxury at its best.

Taking its cue from the Fall-Winter 2009 collection of African kings traveling the modern world with their wardrobes, the brand continues its design philosophy for the next season in this line. “They are probably in Saint Tropez or the south of France,” explains Pamela Picazo, public relations manager for Louis Vuitton Philippines. “They are lounging and tanning during the day and having cocktails or partying during the night. So the collection is composed of pieces they bring from day to night or items they can easily pack into their luggage without getting them crumpled. Basically, they are functional yet there are key details and accents that make them special.”

Together with reimagining luxe travel, the new Cruise collection takes shape from the brand’s reinterpretation of the all-American varsity blues style. The brand’s return to tradition and authenticity is evident in clean-cut classics of both formal and casual wear.

Another key influence is the New York bicycle messenger. The spirit of functionality and practicality dictates the direction for the collection’s sportswear style of reversible pieces to items that can adapt to different situations.

“We’ve taken simple trousers and with the cuffing details it adds a different dimension,” says Picazo. “It goes with the overall theme of someone who gets on his bike and cuffs his trousers. So with the American spirit you’ll see the varsity jacket which we luxed it by making it with leather. Also we have the print of the stars and it degrades into the Louis Vuitton motif.”

For the accessories, the same references match the style to complement the overall look of the Louis Vuitton man. From scarves to mid-cut moccasins and body bags, the French brand connects the practical function with utmost quality and style.

“The shape of the shoes for the Cruise collection is narrow in suede and a lot of color,” says Picazo. “We tried to play with the colors for the footwear because the clothes are in navy, gray and black. This is where we accent the whole look.”

The Louis Vuitton Cruise 2010 collection will be available in Louis Vuitton Greenbelt boutique. For special orders on ready-to-wear, visit the store for more information.

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