There has been a lot of confusion surrounding the ownership of two of the most iconic fashion brands in the world – Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs. While both brands are known for their luxurious designs, they have very different histories and ownership structures.
So, did Marc Jacobs own Louis Vuitton? Let’s find out.
The History of Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton was founded in Paris in 1854 by a young luggage maker named Louis Vuitton. He started his business by creating high-quality trunks that were not only sturdy but also stylish. Over time, the brand expanded its product range to include leather goods, handbags, shoes, and accessories.
In 1987, Louis Vuitton merged with Moët Hennessy to form LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton SE, commonly known as LVMH. This conglomerate is now the largest luxury goods company in the world and owns several other iconic fashion brands such as Dior, Fendi, Givenchy, and Celine.
The Rise of Marc Jacobs
Marc Jacobs is an American fashion designer who started his eponymous brand in 1984. He gained notoriety for his grunge-inspired designs during the 1990s and went on to become the creative director for Perry Ellis in 1993.
In 1997, Marc Jacobs was appointed as the creative director for Louis Vuitton. This was a significant move for both parties as it helped to reposition Louis Vuitton as a luxury brand that was relevant to younger consumers.
The Relationship between Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton
Marc Jacobs served as the creative director for Louis Vuitton from 1997 to 2013. During this time, he helped to transform the brand into one of the most profitable luxury fashion houses in the world. He was responsible for creating some of the brand’s most iconic designs, such as the Monogram Vernis line, the Graffiti and Roses collection, and the collaboration with artist Stephen Sprouse.
Despite his success at Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs never owned the brand. He was an employee of LVMH and worked under the direction of Bernard Arnault, the CEO of LVMH.
The Legacy of Marc Jacobs at Louis Vuitton
Marc Jacobs’ tenure at Louis Vuitton marked a significant turning point in the brand’s history. His innovative designs and collaborations helped to make Louis Vuitton relevant to a new generation of consumers. He also played a crucial role in expanding Louis Vuitton’s product range to include ready-to-wear clothing and accessories.
Today, Louis Vuitton is still one of the most influential luxury fashion brands in the world. While Marc Jacobs is no longer its creative director, his legacy lives on through the many iconic designs he created during his time at the brand.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Marc Jacobs never owned Louis Vuitton. He was an employee of LVMH and served as the creative director for Louis Vuitton from 1997 to 2013.
During his tenure, he helped to transform the brand into one of the most profitable luxury fashion houses in the world. While he may not have owned Louis Vuitton, his contributions to its success will always be remembered as part of its rich history.