Standing in the mirror, suit jacket on and a tie in hand. Deep breathe in. Deep breathe out.
Putting on a tie for the first time is a nerve wracking and difficult experience. Some may argue a calculus equation is easier. The moment a boy puts on a tie by himself, the transition from boy to man has subtly commenced. Soon formal wear will become a staple in his everyday outwear. That first time putting on a tie will be a foggy elusive memory, significant but forgotten. The launch of Act II in Louis Vuitton’s “New Formal” menswear collection may transport him back to the place where it all started. A mirror in his childhood bedroom, with clammy hands and a lot of determination. Formalwear is a symbol of many things; adulthood is one of them.
The sequel to the men’s wardrobe collection designed by Louis Vuitton was introduced for Fall-Winter 2024. The line, “Act II,” is a collection full of timeless businesses, modern tailoring and elevated staples. Slim suiting cut in noble fabrics and single breasted jackets can be seen through the line as well as cigarette trousers in every shade of black, navy and white. The damier motif introduced by men’s creative director Pharell Williams is transposed onto this formal outwear line.
To accompany the stylist collection, a series of thoughtfully designed shoewear pieces were created. Sorbonne loafers in tobacco and black, leather Chelsea boots and Voltaire modern fashion derby in glazed calf leather with a Damier finish were introduced on the runway.
To accessorize the line included a fastline messenger in black, tonal neckties, and key fobs. The line also included iconic bag styles — the Keepall travel bag, the Aerogram Lock It tote, and the new Georges statement tote in Millésime grained leather.
While not everyone may remember putting on their first tie, this collection is a timeless reminder of the importance of formalwear and the significance it can hold.