Louis Vuitton waterfall backlash grew after LVMH said the eight-metre installation used for Pharrell Williams’ Paris Fashion Week show wasted no water during France’s heatwave.
The artificial wave formed the backdrop for Louis Vuitton’s 2027 spring-summer show on Tuesday outside the Cité Universitaire in southern Paris.
France faced temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) as images of the waterfall and sand-covered runway drew scrutiny from residents and local politicians.
An LVMH spokesperson told Reuters the water came from Paris’ supply and moved through a closed-loop system. The spokesperson said the water was redirected back into the city’s sewer system.
LVMH also said the sand would be reused for beach-volleyball courts at Cité Universitaire and by a recycling partner. The company said the event had been adapted to comply with heatwave rules.
Cité Universitaire communications director Jerome Duplan also said the water passed through a closed-loop system. He said Louis Vuitton’s sponsorship helped fund the institution, which faces declining public support and rising costs.
Melody Tonolli, Paris deputy mayor for student living conditions, said she understood public concern over restricted access during a heatwave. She said the display sent “a very unfortunate message.”
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Some residents said the six-week installation disrupted their daily routines and limited access to facilities. Student Emma Keller said the luxury display created a sharp contrast with residents’ living conditions.
The dispute followed earlier criticism of Williams’ 2023 Louis Vuitton debut show, which restricted access around Paris’ oldest bridge near the Louvre Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral.
