London retail: Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop-Up opens in London blending retail with experience

Louis Vuitton is commemorating the 20th anniversary of its iconic collaboration with Japanese artist Takashi Murakami by reintroducing their legendary collection. This milestone is marked by the opening of a two-story pop-up store in London’s affluent Soho, running from January 9 to February 9, 2025.

Nestled in the heart of Soho, the Louis Vuitton x Murakami pop-up seamlessly combines kaleidoscopic artistry with luxury, celebrating the enduring impact of one of fashion’s most iconic partnerships.

The pop-up showcases a whimsical design inspired by Tokyo’s modular hotels, featuring black and pink colour-blocked floors that set a striking stage for more than 200 reimagined pieces. Seamlessly blending retail with experience, the store offers an archival display, a vending machine dispensing collectible gifts, a café, and a ‘care and repair’ station for vintage items.

First launched under the creative direction of designer Marc Jacobs, the collection merges Murakami’s vibrant colours and Superflat aesthetic with Louis Vuitton’s classic designs. Highlights include Monogram Multicolore rolling trunks and the Superflat Panda featured on trainers and keyrings, exemplifying the groundbreaking fusion of art and fashion.

Visitors can delve into an archival module displaying standout pieces from the original collections, such as the Eye Love Monogram and the 2003 Monogram Multicolore. Other treasures like the Monogram Dalmatien, Monogram Cerise, and Monogram Superflat are presented in flower-inspired casings as part of a bespoke exhibition.

Every purchase unlocks access to vending machines offering exclusive Murakami-designed prizes, including trading cards, stickers, and the Takashi Murakami Flower Go Walk portable game. Guests can also enjoy a film lounge outfitted with Murakami flower cushions while watching digitally enhanced Superflat animations.

The Louis Vuitton x Murakami Café adds a delectable dimension to the experience, serving baked goods and drinks in limited-edition cups and napkins adorned with Murakami’s designs. As the only café of its kind in Europe, it elevates the immersive celebration of this landmark collaboration.

Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop-up location: 39 Brewer Street, London, W1F 9UD United Kingdom

Edited by Lucia Carpio.  Photo credit:  Louis Vuitton

Paul's Boutique launches AW14 collection in Westfield Pop-up.

With prints and patterns continuing to be key trends, these fashionable bags should bring a smile on your face.  They are from the new AW14 collection of Paul’s Boutique, featuring pops of colour to brighten up the autumnal palette.

Molly, above, in a bowler bag shape sports a dynamic geometric pattern.  Note also the contrast piping to give the shape added definition.

Mellisa here is in a modern structured design featuring a multi-colour abstract print.

These and many other trendy styles in a range of shapes are featured in Paul's Boutique’s newly launched pop-up space at the Westfield (Europe’s largest independent shopping centre) in White City, London.

During the first three weeks, as part of the “Paul Makes You Happy” campaign, founder Paul Slade will spontaneously select customers in Westfield to receive surprise gifts in the name of making them happy.

Always designing with the London girl in mind, Paul said, “The line is inspired by strength and femininity; presenting more simplistic, structured designs suitable for day to night wear.” Remaining true to its roots with bold and daring designs, Paul is continually inspired by the diversity of styles, music, cultural influences and attitudes that typify the exiting vibrancy of the capital.

After 12 years of designing, Paul Slade has successfully expanded Paul’s Boutique from a stall in Portobello Market to 500 stores across 25 countries worldwide, across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and South Africa. Today the brand has gained a substantial following of celebrities including singer Rita Ora, Pippa Middleton (sister of the Duchess) and actress Jaime Winston.