At 914 square metres in size, Louis Vuitton Philippines’ newest flagship boutique is impressive and alluring, to say the least

The doors have opened to Louis Vuitton's newest and largest store in the Philippines. Bursting with colour, the brands most legendary creations, and their new cutting edge designs, fans of Louis Vuitton and eager shoppers are in for a treat in this candy-land. 

During a sneak-peak one day prior to the official opening, Tatler accompanied Louis Vuitton loyalist, Dr Victoria Belo, as she indulged in a private shopping session with the store all to herself. With just a handful of friends, she and her husband Dr Hayden Kho previewed all Louis Vuitton’s must-have hot-ticket items from luggage to gadgets, footwear, fashion, jewellery and fragrance.

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As a long-time fan of Louis Vuitton, Belo said “to me, their creations do not go out of style. I can keep wearing them”. As she strolled the expansive store-grounds, her eyes twinkled as she was deciding what to focus on first. Kho, a huge fan of designer Virgil Abloh, went straight for the men’s collection. “If a man should buy one thing from this brand it’s that pair of white sneakers,” he said, remarking that you cannot go wrong with a classic like that in your closet. 

Belo interestingly also gushed about Abloh and how he modernised the label. “I really think Virgil Abloh has added so much to Louis Vuitton. The men’s side is much more exciting than the women’s. I am always borrowing Hayden’s clothes,” Belo revealed with a chuckle. 

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Counter to counter, shelf to shelf, Belo, Kho and their dear friends Jojie Dingcong and Pops Fernandez gleefully perused every corner. They tried on clothes, tested out bags, smelled fragrances and even got to see how personalised monograms were done in-store. From perfume bottles to leather goods, you can emboss (via hot-stamp) your initials or those of your family and friends, making for excellent gifts or personal treats. Since personalisation has always been a trademark for Louis Vuitton, for this momentous opening a limited edition hot stamp design – inspired by the emblems from the Philippine flag – will be exclusively available at the store. 

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Speaking of gifts, Dr Belo was instantly drawn to the store’s crown item: a vanity trunk with pink interiors, worth PHP9 million. “This is my dream gift. It is a dresser with everything Louis Vuitton. You can put your make-up and perfume, and everything you need in it,” Belo said enthusiastically.

From bright, powerful and eye-catching creations to muted low-key designs there truly is a find for every person’s aesthetic. If a simple, classic Louis Vuitton bag is up your alley, Belo suggests adding a whimsical keychain to elevate your look. “When you have an ordinary bag and you simply add the keychain it becomes so special,” she shared.

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Just as thoughtful details can elevate an ensemble, the same goes for interior design. Louis Vuitton’s one-storey layout was conceptualised by the brand's global design experts but is infused with Filipino cultural heritage thanks to Stephanie and Jessica Kienle, the sisters behind home-grown furniture and design label, Philux. Through this collaboration, Louis Vuitton Philippines worked with Philux in order to celebrate Filipino craftsmanship and artistry. 

Furnishings, decor, tapestry and design details of the store were curated, sourced and husbanded by the Kinenle sisters who wanted to showcase the sophistication and beauty of what the country has to offer. The store’s interiors are inspired by Louis Vuitton’s original connection to travel (seeing as they shot to fame and are so known for their iconic trunks). As you walk around the boutique you will notice aspects that are unique to a traditional Filipino home. Stephanie and Jessica were inspired by the woven heritage of the country and its 7,107 islands when conceptualising what furniture, lamps and art to bring into the flagship branch.

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The ceiling panels are made of raffia and saguran (textile made from the fibre of local leaves), while the women’s leather goods area features beautiful bamboo teardrop lamps made by local craftsmen. Rugs that bring warm and great nuance to the vast store showcase tribal tattoo-like designs. On top of that, the VIP private lounge’s sliding doors mimic capiz windows which are often found in traditional provincial family homes. 

In the VIP lounge, you can rest your feet, enjoy a cocktail, some snacks and be pampered by their in-house stylist. Have clothes, accessories, bags and more brought to you and fit at your leisure in the private dressing room. The spacious lounge is designed to put you at ease and to make your shopping experience extra indulgent. 

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Credits

Photography  

Ian Santos

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