Louis Vuitton has always loved to play with bold ideas, but its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear show went a step further, transforming cultural inspiration into something striking, modern, and genuinely fresh. Unlike many luxury brands that often use global cultures as vague backdrops, this season India wasn’t just an aesthetic reference-it was the beating heart of the entire collection. Not only the Kolhapuri Chappals but LV stunned netizens with this uniquely shaped bag.
The designer rickshaw bag everyone’s talking about
If there was one item that stole the spotlight, it was a handbag shaped exactly like an Indian autorickshaw. Crafted from supple leather and emblazoned with the signature LV monogram, the piece was as unexpected as it was stylish. The internet exploded in fascination.
Louis Vuitton has released playful bags before, remember their airplane-shaped luggage or the quirky hamburger clutch? but the autorickshaw accessory felt more purposeful. Instead of a generic gimmick, it was a detailed tribute to everyday life in India, a nod to the millions who rely on the three-wheeler as an essential mode of transport. Predictably, the price will sit somewhere between extravagant and absurd, but that contrast, luxury meeting the mundane-is exactly why it’s unforgettable.
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Rich Indian motifs meet modern luxury
Beyond the viral bag, the entire runway was alive with Indian artistry and tradition. Opulent trunks glistened with jewel-like embellishments reminiscent of Mughal treasures, while lush silks and velvets featured intricate embroidery in saturated gem tones. Elephant and leopard motifs roamed across jackets and trousers, evoking a regal nostalgia without feeling costume-like.
What impressed critics was how balanced everything felt. It wasn’t a tourist’s fantasy of India; it was more like a remix of authentic references, reimagined through the house’s refined lens.
Why this collection resonates
Louis Vuitton embraced India with intention and taste. From tuk-tuks to temple-like embroideries, the show felt like a sincere tribute to a culture brimming with visual stories.
And it comes at a time when India is increasingly commanding the fashion industry’s attention. The country’s art, textiles, and street style are inspiring not just Western luxury houses but also global high-street labels looking for the next wave of influence.
This season, India wasn’t just a theme-it was the main character. And the world noticed.
