With 13 Grammys, two Oscar nominations, four Billboard number-one hits and over 20 years’ of fashion collaborations, Williams, now the creative director of menswear
at Louis Vuitton, is a multi-hyphenate whose impact and cultural relevance are enduring. This year, he’s adding a new collaboration with Moët & Chandon to his impressive and ever-growing list of projects. He sits down to discuss why he’s in a celebratory mood.
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What is making you feel optimistic for 2025?
I’m optimistic about the power of collective joy and human connection. I believe that by celebrating each other we can create a more connected world.
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What are some of the great life lessons you’ve learned?
The importance of humility, empathy and gratitude. Human connection is about understanding and appreciating the people around us. It’s not about material gifts, but the love and support we give and receive.
Who are your up-and-coming creatives to watch?
The folks I’m most focused on now are creatives like Nigö, Martine Rose and Air Afrique, as well as artists like Henry Taylor, who I collaborated with for Louis Vuitton. Visionaries like Daft Punk and other talented musicians like Pusha T and Future also serve as deep sources of inspiration for me.
What’s on your 2025 celebration playlist?
I always include a mix of classic hits and some new stuff out there that bring joy and energy to any celebration. It could range from Stevie Wonder to De La Soul to Pusha T to the robots (Daft Punk) and more.
What was the best celebration you’ve hosted in your life?
There are always so many moments in life to celebrate, but I do remember specifically toasting with Moët on my 30th birthday. It’s one of those milestone birthdays; I was surrounded by close friends and family and we just had a great time.
Who are the people – dead or alive – you would want to have at your dream celebration night?
People who have inspired me throughout my life. I’m one of those incredibly blessed people who has gotten to work with some of my biggest inspirations – Nigö, for one.
Your style has always been influential. What are your favourite things to wear for big occasions?
Good accessories that add a personal touch. I also appreciate pieces that have a story behind them, like custom-made items or gifts from friends.
What do you feel are the biggest similarities and differences between music and fashion?
Both are forms of self-expression and creativity. They let us communicate who we are and how we feel. Of course, music is an auditory experience, while fashion is visual. So they are nourished by different universes, talking to different senses. However, both have the power to inspire, influence and bring people together.
You’re now based in Paris. What do you love about the city?
Its endless inspiration. The city’s history, culture and creativity are unparalleled. I love the energy of the streets, the beauty of the architecture and the way art and fashion are woven into everyday life.
You’ve worked with so many music and fashion stars. what is the key to good collaboration?
Mutual respect, a shared vision and inspiration. Collaboration is rooted in shared values of joy, togetherness and innovation: bringing our unique perspectives together to create something truly special. Communication, trust and mutual opening to disruptive ideas are essential – when you have that, collaboration becomes a seamless and inspiring process.
You have had many memorable collaborations over the years. What have you loved most about this one?
It definitely puts into perspective how life is really about the joy and gratitude we feel for those who show up for us, who stand up for us, day in and day out – and who are keen to celebrate our laps around the sun. This collaboration has reinforced the idea that it’s the connections we have with others that make any occasion unforgettable.
Having accomplished so much, is there anything you still want to try that you haven’t done yet?
There are always new challenges and opportunities that excite me. There are still so many more things I want to do that I haven’t done. You can never stop wanting to do more and learn more.
The Moët & Chandon Pharrell Williams Limited Edition Collection launched on March 1 globally.
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