“The original patent explicitly indicated that the Monogram motif could be interpreted in different colors, sizes, and across various materials,” says Pierre-Louis. “Georges Vuitton clearly recognized its broader, innovative potential even at that time.”
For the Monogram’s 130th birthday, Louis Vuitton has gone back to the pattern’s roots as a jacquard and created the Monogram Emblème, a woven organic cotton-linen blend that features a subtle three-dimensional effect. “The enduring legacy of the Monogram canvas is rooted in our savoir-faire,” says Pierre-Louis. “This foundational know-how, deeply embedded in our heritage, remains paramount.” —Julie Coe
Debut
Loro Piana Unveils a Suite of Dazzling Textiles That Captures Its Expansive Know-How and the Boundless Possibility of Needlework
Derived from the Gaelic word for blanket or wrap, the plaid—not the pattern, but the cloth itself—was historically a quite humble, woolen thing worn for warmth in the Scottish Highlands. But reimagined at the hands of Loro Piana, it becomes a canvas for experimentation with exquisite materials and techniques, a confident display of savoir faire. During Milan Design Week this past April, the Italian luxury powerhouse unveiled Studies, Chapter I: On the Plaid, an artful collection of 24 fabrics, each one a distinct exploration of the brand’s ethos and expertise. The pieces now serve as a jumping-off point for clientele who can custom order the decorative textiles to use as decadent throws, pillows, or wall tapestries.
Primavera in Valsesi
Photo: Courtesy of Loro Piana
Danza di Fibre
Photo: Courtesy of Loro Piana
When Loro Piana started making in-house collections in the mid-1980s, the plaid was among its first finished products. Today, these two dozen latest examples reveal Loro Piana’s range both creatively and technically, showcasing signature materials (vicuña, cashmere, their proprietary ultrafine wool) as well as craft methods like hand embroidery and jacquard weaving.
Sherazade Notte (all from loro Piana’s new collection of made-to-order plaids)
Photo: Courtesy of Loro Piana
Gara d’Inverno
Photo: Courtesy of Loro Piana