Virgil Abloh’s legacy at Louis Vuitton is impenetrable, the artistic men’s director bringing the luxury fashion house to new heights. Since his passing last November, the label has been preparing for what will happen next. However, this pre-collection is utilized as an opportunity to finish where Abloh left off. 

Pre-collections for the designer as a means to frame his sensibility towards the brand, an invigoration that usually coincided with his inspirations. While last year’s Resort 2022 capsule brought Louis Vuitton and Nigo together (the latter being one of Abloh’s most significant inspirations), childhood foundations took the lead this year. 

Music was a source of joy for Abloh, a theme that formed many of his relationships, and even a hobby that further solidified his icon. The motif can be seen throughout the collection and is indicated by the titles of the two chapters – The Concert Goer and The Music Student – constructing a silhouette of youth that many of his disciples are familiar with. Vibrant dye, cargo pants, and monogrammed bomber jackets look into the sophisticated playfulness that characterized the designer. The brightly hand-dyed fur hats seen in Spring 2022 return in icy white and forest green, while puffer jackets are layered on top of pristine tailored suits.

As per the press release that coincided with the release of images, the collection was “Carried out by the creative teams and collaborators with whom he continually worked at Louis Vuitton,” signaling the tenets that founded Abloh’s legacy. As the maison prepares for the spring 2023 show next month, Resort 2023 and the Louis Vuitton x Nike “Air Force 1” by Virgil Abloh exhibition in New York indicate what is to come.