Pharrell Williams’s reinterpretation of the classic Louis Vuitton Speedy bag has officially hit the shelves, marking the first bag debut since the artist assumed the role of the brand’s men’s fashion director in February 2023. Previously showcased on Rihanna in a Louis Vuitton campaign, the new version departs from the original muted-brown canvas material and introduces bright primary colors, notably crafted from the softest leather.
The distinctive features of the bag include intentional wrinkles and a droopy appearance, signaling its departure from the conventional Speedy canvas. Pharrell emphasized the use of butter-soft leather, adding a luxurious touch to the iconic design. The original Speedy bag gained prominence in the early 2000s, with a pivotal collaboration between creative director Marc Jacobs and Japanese artist Takashi Murakami in 2003. The resulting designs featured cartoon-like prints, including cherry blossoms and colorful monograms, prominently displayed on Speedy bags.
Over the years, the Speedy bag underwent various transformations, adapting to different styles and collaborations. Notable instances include Virgil Abloh’s bold ombré hues and an iridescent-prism PVC travel bag during his tenure at Louis Vuitton. The collaboration with artist Yayoi Kusama introduced another iteration with Kusama’s signature colorful motif.
The petite silhouette and short handles of the Speedy bag evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the early aughts. However, the bag’s origin dates back to 1930 when Gaston-Louis Vuitton introduced a larger men’s canvas bag named the Express, inspired by the speedy-car era. In 1965, a smaller version was created for the iconic Audrey Hepburn, solidifying its status as a timeless piece.
Pharrell describes the new adaptation as an “everyday icon conceived for every walk of life,” drawing inspiration from Canal Street in New York and aiming to subvert expectations. The bag is now available on louisvuitton.com and select stores, with prices ranging from $9,300 for the Speedy 25 to $12,400 for the Bandoulière 50, marking a significant step in Louis Vuitton’s evolution under Pharrell’s influence.
