Design Philosophy of the LV x Off-White Air Force 1

1. LV x Off-White Air Force 1 Fusion of Classic Heritage and Luxury

Since its launch in 1982, the Nike Air Force 1 has stood as an iconic sneaker model. Virgil Abloh regarded it as a work of art, seeing it as a symbol of the boundary-pushing creativity inherent in hip-hop culture—a culture that shaped him. Building on the Air Force 1’s classic silhouette, he incorporated Louis Vuitton’s signature emblems and materials, such as Monogram embossed leather and Damier leather. This seamless integration of the two brands’ rich histories ensures the shoe retains the timeless charm of the Air Force 1 while embodying the luxurious texture of Louis Vuitton.

2. Deconstruction and Reconstruction

Off-White is renowned for its deconstructivist design style, and Virgil Abloh brought this aesthetic to the LV x Off-White Air Force 1. By exposing stitching, adding quotation marks, and incorporating other signature deconstructive elements, he gave the shoe an unfinished, raw feel—like a deconstruction and reassembly of traditional footwear design. This approach endowed the classic Air Force 1 with a new visual language and a distinct fashion attitude.

3. Ingenious Use of Color

In terms of color, Virgil Abloh adopted a variety of color schemes. For instance, the combination of white and royal blue pays homage to Nike’s heritage while subtly embracing Louis Vuitton’s bold design ethos. Vibrant hues like green and red are also used, allowing the shoe to maintain its classic identity while delivering a strong visual impact—showcasing unique personality and contemporary style.

4. Pursuit of Ultimate Craftsmanship and Detailing

Cnfans LV x Off-White Air Force 1 Every pair of the LV x Off-White Air Force 1 is handcrafted at Louis Vuitton’s Fiesso d’Artico shoe workshop near Venice, Italy. This marked the first time in the Air Force 1’s 40-year history that the model was produced outside of Nike’s factories. From the polishing of shoe lasts and cutting of leather to the intricate stitching, every detail is meticulously crafted—reflecting Louis Vuitton’s exquisite craftsmanship and uncompromising pursuit of quality.