Setting the stage: Palais des Papes as a backdrop
The Palais des Papes in Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings, served as the awe-inspiring venue for Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2026 womenswear show. The historic structure, once the seat of the Catholic papacy in the 14th century, brought a sense of grandeur and timelessness to the event, blending centuries-old architecture with cutting-edge fashion.
As dusk settled over southern France, the grand courtyard of the palace was transformed into a dramatic runway. Towering stone walls, illuminated by soft, golden lighting, framed the models as they walked beneath vaulted arches and past weathered frescoes. The interplay of ancient stone and modern design created a powerful visual contrast that underscored the collection’s themes of heritage and innovation.
The choice of location was more than aesthetic—it was symbolic. The Palais des Papes, with its rich history and commanding presence, echoed the enduring legacy of the Louis Vuitton brand. The setting also paid homage to the craftsmanship and artistry that define both the fashion house and the architectural marvel in which the show was staged.
Guests, including celebrities, fashion editors, and industry insiders, were seated in the open-air courtyard, surrounded by the imposing medieval walls. The atmosphere was both intimate and monumental, with the sounds of classical music echoing through the stone corridors, enhancing the sense of occasion. The setting not only elevated the presentation but also anchored it in a uniquely European context, resonating with the brand’s French heritage while captivating a global audience.
Nicolas Ghesquière’s vision for Cruise 2026
Nicolas Ghesquière, Louis Vuitton’s artistic director of womenswear since 2013, brought a bold and cerebral approach to the Cruise 2026 collection, continuing his exploration of contrasts—between eras, textures, and silhouettes. Known for his futuristic sensibilities and architectural tailoring, Ghesquière leaned into the dramatic setting of the Palais des Papes to craft a narrative that was both regal and rebellious.
Drawing inspiration from the medieval grandeur of the venue, Ghesquière infused the collection with elements that nodded to historical dress—structured shoulders reminiscent of armour, high collars, and voluminous sleeves—while reinterpreting them through a contemporary lens. The result was a series of looks that felt both timeless and forward-thinking, a hallmark of his design philosophy.
Ghesquière’s vision for Cruise 2026 was rooted in the idea of transformation. He played with silhouettes that shifted as models moved, using layered fabrics and unexpected cut-outs to create garments that revealed new dimensions from different angles. Metallic accents and iridescent textiles added a futuristic sheen, contrasting with the earthy tones and rich textures that echoed the stone walls of the palace.
There was a deliberate tension in the collection—between softness and structure, past and future. Ghesquière embraced this duality, using it to challenge traditional notions of femininity. Corsetry was reimagined not as a restrictive garment but as a sculptural element, while flowing capes and draped skirts suggested freedom and movement. The interplay of these ideas created a dynamic visual language that felt particularly resonant in the historic setting.
For Australian fashion enthusiasts, Ghesquière’s Cruise 2026 collection offers a compelling glimpse into the evolving dialogue between heritage and innovation. His ability to reinterpret historical references through a modern, wearable lens speaks to a global audience, while also aligning with the growing appreciation for craftsmanship and storytelling in fashion. The collection’s theatrical presentation in Avignon only amplified its impact, reinforcing Ghesquière’s role as one of the most visionary designers of his generation.
Highlights from the womenswear collection
The Cruise 2026 womenswear collection unfolded as a masterclass in juxtaposition, with each look offering a fresh take on historical motifs reimagined for the modern woman. Ghesquière’s designs moved seamlessly between structured tailoring and fluid drapery, showcasing a diverse range of silhouettes that celebrated both strength and sensuality. One standout ensemble featured a sharply tailored blazer with exaggerated shoulders, paired with a flowing silk skirt that caught the breeze as the model strode through the courtyard, creating a striking contrast of form and movement.
Rich, tactile fabrics played a central role throughout the collection. Velvet, brocade, and jacquard were layered with technical materials like neoprene and metallic mesh, creating a tactile interplay that echoed the stone textures of the Palais des Papes. Embellishments were used sparingly but effectively—beaded embroidery and hand-applied sequins added a touch of opulence without overwhelming the clean lines of the garments.
Colour was used with precision, with a palette that ranged from deep jewel tones—emerald, sapphire, and garnet—to muted neutrals and flashes of iridescent silver. These hues not only complemented the medieval backdrop but also highlighted the architectural quality of the garments. A series of monochromatic looks in ivory and bone stood out for their sculptural simplicity, offering a moment of quiet elegance amid the more ornate pieces.
Accessories were equally considered, with oversized belts, structured handbags, and futuristic eyewear adding to the narrative. Footwear ranged from knee-high leather boots with metallic accents to delicate sandals with sculptural heels, reinforcing the collection’s balance of strength and grace. Headpieces resembling modern-day crowns and hoods added a theatrical flair, nodding to the ecclesiastical history of the venue without veering into costume.
Among the most talked-about looks was a floor-length gown crafted from layered organza and adorned with laser-cut detailing that mimicked stained glass windows—a direct homage to the Gothic architecture surrounding the runway. Another highlight was a cropped jacket with chainmail-inspired embellishments, worn over a sheer blouse and high-waisted trousers, blending medieval references with a distinctly urban edge.
For Australian audiences, the collection’s emphasis on craftsmanship and storytelling resonates strongly with the growing appreciation for slow fashion and artisanal design. The Cruise 2026 show not only delivered visually arresting fashion but also offered a thoughtful meditation on history, identity, and the evolving role of women’s fashion in a global context.
Cruise 2026 collection highlights
Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2026 womenswear collection, under the creative direction of Nicolas Ghesquière, delivered a bold interplay of structure and softness, with silhouettes that balanced futuristic tailoring and romantic detailing. The collection leaned into sculptural volumes, with sharply cut jackets, exaggerated shoulders, and cinched waists that nodded to both medieval armour and modern power dressing.
Textural contrasts were a standout, with metallic fabrics, glossy leathers, and sheer organza layered to create depth and movement. Ghesquière’s signature architectural lines were softened by flowing skirts and draped elements, offering a dynamic tension between rigidity and fluidity. A palette of muted neutrals—stone, ivory, and slate—was punctuated by flashes of electric blue and molten gold, evoking both the ancient stone of the Palais des Papes and a futuristic edge.
Accessories played a key role, with oversized belts, sculptural boots, and statement bags featuring intricate hardware and embossed motifs. Jewellery was bold yet refined, with chunky cuffs and layered chains adding a sense of strength and femininity. The collection also introduced a new iteration of the Petite Malle, reimagined in iridescent finishes and embossed leather, destined to be a must-have for the Australian luxury market.
Ghesquière’s Cruise 2026 vision was unapologetically theatrical yet wearable, offering Australian fashion buyers and stylists a rich source of inspiration for editorial and retail curation. The collection’s blend of historical reference and forward-thinking design speaks directly to a modern woman who values both heritage and innovation in her wardrobe.
Historic setting at Palais des Papes
The choice of the Palais des Papes in Avignon as the venue for Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2026 show was nothing short of masterstroke. This 14th-century Gothic fortress, once the seat of papal power, brought a sense of gravitas and grandeur that elevated the entire presentation. As dusk settled over the ancient stone walls, the interplay of shadow and light created a cinematic atmosphere that echoed the collection’s themes of contrast and duality.
Models emerged from the arched cloisters and traversed the expansive courtyard, their silhouettes framed by the towering ramparts and ornate tracery of the palace. The juxtaposition of contemporary fashion against the medieval architecture underscored Ghesquière’s ongoing dialogue between past and future. The setting’s austere beauty amplified the sculptural quality of the garments, while the natural acoustics of the stone enclosure added a haunting resonance to the ambient soundtrack.
For Australian viewers tuning in digitally, the location offered a visual feast that transcended the screen. The Palais des Papes, with its weathered limestone and imposing scale, mirrored the collection’s palette and structure, creating a seamless fusion between environment and design. It was a reminder that fashion, at its most powerful, is not just about clothing—it’s about storytelling, atmosphere, and emotion.
In a global fashion landscape increasingly focused on immersive experiences, Louis Vuitton’s choice of venue set a new benchmark. The historic site not only honoured the heritage of craftsmanship and artistry but also aligned with the brand’s commitment to cultural resonance. For the Australian fashion industry, it signals a continued shift towards experiential luxury—where the setting is as integral to the narrative as the garments themselves.