A Theatre of Fashion: Louis Vuitton’s cruise 2026 collection at the historic Palais des Papes

"...Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2026 collection swept us away to the sun-drenched heart of the south of France, unveiling its latest marvels in the historic city of Avignon. The show took place at the Palais des Papes, a beguiling Gothic wonder where centuries of history and artistic opulence collided with Nicolas Ghesquière’s ever-evolving vision..."

The French designer first visited this medieval palace back in 2000, drawn in by the hypnotic video art of Bill Viola and the raw intensity of Pina Bausch’s dance. Those memories proved indelible, and now, a quarter-century later, Ghesquière returned to this hallowed ground to weave a collection infused with drama and splendour, while Es Devlin’s striking installation of red velvet theatre seats set the stage for an unforgettable night.

This season’s designs reached back through time and merged influences from medieval courts with the rebellious glamour of rock icons. Joan of Arc-esque dresses shimmered with sequins and metallic leather straps, while gilded brocade gowns glowed like the covers of ancient illuminated manuscripts and echoed the palace’s storied past. Tunics, capes and coats were meticulously crafted with dazzling mirrors, sequins and silver studs, and leather in wave-like panels sculpted into bold, three-dimensional shapes, exuding a sense of the future in Ghesquière’s signature designs.

Yet it wasn’t just the garments that cast a spell, as the accessories turned up the drama. Sky-high, open-toed boots were awash with glimmering mirrored details, while leather cavalier boots shimmered with an armoury of silver studs. The house’s iconic Alma bags were transformed with gilded, three-dimensional embellishments that gleamed like treasures from a medieval vault. A riot of jewel-toned knitwear and modern silhouettes added an air of insouciance and softened the collection’s uniform-like grandeur, proving once again that Ghesquière knows how to surprise.

The choice of venue was no accident, since the Palais des Papes, once home to popes for over 70 years and crowned a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, became more than a backdrop because it was a statement. It was a celebration of history, culture and the enduring spirit of fashion, as only Louis Vuitton can deliver.

Also See: Gucci Cruise 2026: A return to roots in the Renaissance city