Music Meets High Fashion: The LV in Paris Fashion Show

There’s never been a better time to be a fashion and music lover. The runways of Paris, London, Milan, and New York are buzzing with new energy, not just from the latest designs but also from the music choices that set the tone for high fashion shows. These soundtracks are essential elements that enhance the theme, diversity, and emotional impact on the runway.

Music has always been a part of fashion shows, but it’s influence has deepened significantly. In recent years, a notable trend has emerged where music genres are carefully selected to reflect and amplify the message of the fashion collections being showcased. This makes fashion shows multi-sensory events that offer more than just visual stimulation, as designers now collaborate with musicians to create a more immersive and cohesive experience.

Whether it’s Afrobeats for a celebration of cultural diversity or country music for a rustic, down-to-earth collection, the soundtrack can transform the atmosphere and storytelling of the show. The collaboration between musicians and fashion designers is not limited to a single genre though. K-pop music stars like BTS, SEVENTEEN, BLACKPINK’s Jennie and Rose are usually brought in for innovative, ai-infused shows, Country artists like Carrie Underwood and Shania Twain for country-themed collections, such as Edward Crutchley’s London FW24 Show, and pop icons like Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna and Doja Cat for contemporary, edgy presentations as could be seen at Schiapparelli and Dior’s shows in Paris.

A prime example of this new trend was the Louis Vuitton Men’s Spring/Summer 2024 show in Paris. Directed by Pharrell Williams, the event, titled, ‘The World is Yours’ was a perfect fusion of music and fashion. Williams, known for his musical genius, brought his creative vision to the runway by incorporating a dynamic mix of Afrobeats. The show featured performances and appearances by prominent Afrobeats stars like Wizkid, Tems, Adekunle Gold, Rema, and Burna Boy.

Afrobeats, with its infectious rhythms and global appeal, has become a favourite in fashion circles. Its inclusion in high-profile fashion shows signifies a broader recognition of African culture and music on the world stage. The Louis Vuitton show in Paris celebrated African music and artists in a way that had never been done before. Adekunle Gold’s record not only featured during the runway show, he and other Afrobeats stars also mingled with fashion royalty.

This choice of music not only energised the audience but also displayed Louis Vuitton’s commitment to diversity and cultural inclusion. Burna Boy reflected on the experience, saying, “The World is Yours. It’s incredible to see our music celebrated in such a grand setting.” Pharrell Williams added, “Music brings a unique energy to fashion shows. It’s about creating a vibe, telling a story, and making the audience feel something profound.”

This trend reflects a broader conversation about inclusivity and the power of cultural exchange. Music has the ability to convey messages and emotions that resonate deeply with audiences, making it a perfect partner for fashion, which is also about storytelling and expression. African music stars are at the forefront of this vision, taking center stage and influencing the fashion world.

The future promises more exciting collaborations, where every fashion show feels like a concert, and every concert has the flair of a high-fashion runway, creating a richer, more diverse, and more engaging experience for audiences worldwide.

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Written by Angel Joanne Okonkwo

All photos are by Getty Images