Louis Vuitton 101
Takashi Murakami is a Japanese contemporary artist. He is known for using bright colors and mixing traditional Japanese art with pop culture.
The collaboration between Takashi Murakami and Louis Vuitton began in 2002 under LV creative director Marc Jacobs. Murakami brought his imaginative and colorful aesthetics to the renowned fashion house.
The first collection that evolved from this collaboration was the Monogram Multicolor collection of bags, wallets, and other items from Spring/Summer 2003. The designs received tremendous public attention.
The Multicolor collection featured 33 different colors on a black and white coated canvas backdrop. Using the colors, Murakami re-imagined the brand’s classic brown monogram print with vivid color palettes and playfulness.
Several more Louis Vuitton Takashi Murakami collaborations followed the success of the Monogram Multicolor collection. Such collections include the Cherry Blossom (2003), Panda (2004), Monogramouflage (2008), and Cosmic Blossom (2010).
Takashi Murakami’s colorful Louis Vuitton handbags have been seen on a number of celebrities such as Rihanna (pictured above), A$AP Rocky, Paris Hilton, and Kendall Jenner.
The partnership between Murakami and Louis Vuitton came to an end after 12 years following the discontinuation of the Monogram Multicolor line in 2015, making it the longest artist collaboration the brand has ever had.
With the rise in popularity of vintage trends, the discontinued Monogram Multicolor designs are making a comeback. The resale price on the Mini HL Speedy bag has sky-rocketed more than 200% in the past two years, and it still sells as soon as it hits the shelf.