Louis Vuitton’s Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection has achieved what many luxury houses attempt but rarely master: transforming cultural inspiration into a collection that feels genuinely exciting, relevant, and cool. This season, India wasn’t a casual reference point—it was the centerpiece, and the fashion world took notice.
From royal emblems to the vibrancy of Indian streets, the collection featured thoughtful nods to the country’s heritage and artistry. Yet, what truly captured global attention was a handbag unlike any other: a miniature autorickshaw, reimagined in LV’s signature Monogram leather. The familiar three-wheeler, a daily sight weaving through India’s bustling traffic, became a sculptural, luxurious accessory, complete with tiny wheels and handlebars.
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Louis Vuitton has a history of creating whimsical bags shaped like planes, fish, and even burgers. But the autorickshaw bag stood out. It wasn’t quirky for quirk’s sake; it was sharp and specific, turning an everyday object into a high-fashion collectible. Social media quickly latched on, with Diet Paratha’s viral post humorously captioned, “Did this bag just colonise me? Joking… NRIs are going to lose it over this one.”
The expected price tag? Sky-high, of course. But that’s part of the allure—a tongue-in-cheek homage to something ordinary, turned into something coveted, reminding us that fashion often thrives on contrasts.
The collection extended beyond the autorickshaw. Elephant and leopard motifs, gemstone-studded trunks reminiscent of Mughal grandeur, and rich fabrics with vivid embroidery painted a narrative of modern luxury rooted in India’s artistic legacy. The result was a meeting of regal tradition with contemporary street sensibility.
Footwear followed suit, with sleek interpretations of Indian chappals gracing the runway. These subtle nods to traditional footwear echoed the Kolhapuri-inspired designs Prada introduced earlier this year, but with Louis Vuitton’s refined finish.
What made the collection stand out was its careful balance. Nothing felt like a costume, nor did it slip into a “tourist in India” cliché. Instead, it felt like a respectful remix—elements of real culture transformed through a luxury lens with intention and care.
At a time when many brands tiptoe around cultural influence, Louis Vuitton embraced it confidently and gracefully. The collection didn’t simply draw inspiration from India; it celebrated it, from its vibrant streets to its deep-rooted artistry. It’s a reminder that true style is about storytelling, not just trends—and India’s story is one the fashion world can no longer overlook.
By Anandita Chakraborty
