lv by day…

Marie Claire attended the exclusive preview and launch of Louis Vuitton’s new Island Maison and invites you on the grand tour

TEXT Mindy Teh

Southeast Asia’s first Louis Vuitton Maison—a glass and steel Moshe Safdie architectural wonder surrounded by the Malacca Straits and a view of Singapore’s burgeoning cosmopolitan skyline—is indeed a sight to behold. An air of exclusivity and sophistication surrounds the flagship—one enters the maison via an outdoor bridge; a travelator through the world’s first nderwater mini art gallery and specialist bookstore; or if one so wishes, via private boat charter. The interior, conceptualised by longtime collaborator and famed architect Peter Merino, bears intricate details such as shipbuilding timber, port holes  and ship masts to create the atmosphere of lounging in a luxury cruise liner. Inside lies a multifaceted haven filled with art and luxury—lower decks present the well-heeled with fine jewellery and a men’s universe while upper decks feature a women’s universe, women’s accessories, a private lounge and an outdoor loggia. A mural by Ruben Toledo and sculpture by British artist Richard Deacon remind patrons of Vuitton’s commitment to art. Stunned by the grandeur of the flagship, legendary actor Chow  Yun Fat—a surprise guest at its in-store press conference and whose own photography is featured in the gallery—playfully remarked that the flagship’s feng shui must be very good. Take a closer look and you’ll agree.

… lv by night

The fanfare surrounding the Maison’s evening launch proceedings was realised by a spectacular evening that had 1000 guests and glitterati paying a visit to the flagship. Oscar-winning actress Cate Blanchett looked resplendent in a black Vuitton outfit as she took her place in a ribbon cutting ceremony that included Chairman and CEO of Louis Vuitton Malletier Yves Carcelle eforeattending a star-studded party at One On The Bund at Fullerton Bay Hotel where a pop-up Vuitton hotel was set up in tribute to the event. Blue bloods and the cream of Asian society mingled with the likes of Chow Yun Fat, Japanese footballer Hidetoshi Nakata, models Du Juan and Zhao Lei, Chinese actresses Zhao Wei and Zhang Jing Chu as well as Bollywood star Deepika Padukone—all of whom were seen partying it up as DJs Antwone and Falcon from France spun a selection  of dance hits before Grammy winner Estelle took to the stage and got everyone belting the words to American Boy with her. Mixologists kept the party flowing with specially-designed cocktails and revellers stayed till the  wee hours of the night. C’etait un bonne soirée!

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