104-555: Albert II (Albert Alexandre Louis Pierre Grimaldi; born 14 March 1958) is Prince of Monaco , reigning since 2005. Born at the Prince's Palace of Monaco , Albert is the second child and only son of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace . He attended the Lycée Albert Premier before studying political science at Amherst College . In his youth, he competed in bobsleigh during Winter Olympic finals before retiring in 2002. Albert
208-488: A brief period of self-isolation. In 2021, Raphaël Domjan became the first pilot of an electric plane flight with a head of state . On 14 September 2021, they took off with a Pipistrel Velis128 operated by Elektropostal from Nice airport in France with Albert II and they flew over Monaco. The plane flew for 30 minutes at a maximum altitude of 900 feet. Prince Albert met South African swimmer Charlene Wittstock in 2000 at
312-625: A conflict with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) meeting in Durban on 5–9 July, which they both attended. The couple had invited members of the IOC, including president Jacques Rogge , to their wedding. The couple were married in a civil ceremony on 1 July 2011 in the Throne Room of the Prince's Palace . The religious ceremony took place in the courtyard of the palace on 2 July, and
416-516: A documentary by Rupert Murray . In the piece, Prince Albert and Clover note that bluefin tuna have been severely overfished in the Mediterranean, and decry the common European Union practice of awarding inflated quotas to bluefin fleets. Albert also announced that Monaco would seek to award endangered species status to the Mediterranean bluefin, Thunnus thynnus , (also called the Northern bluefin) under
520-690: A remote local district on Hong Kong Island. The controversy had caused tremendous concern on Hong Kong news forums and viral protest on Facebook pages. On 14 April 2021, Louis Vuitton lost a patent office case in Japan against a Japanese manufacturer. The manufacturer was using centuries old Japanese designs in its goods, the same ones that had originally inspired Louis Vuitton. The Sarah wallet design in particular resembles bag designs that have been used for centuries to contain juzu (strings of beads used in funeral ceremonies - see Japamala#Japanese Buddhism ). There has been comment on Japanese social media concerning how
624-410: A satirical illustration, "Simple Living", depicting a malnourished child holding a designer dog and a designer bag, and used it on T-shirts and posters to raise funds for the charity "Divest for Darfur". On 25 March, the court ruled in favour of LV that the image was a clear infringement of copyright . Despite the ruling, Plesner continued to use the image, arguing artistic freedom, and posted copies of
728-566: A series of strong polemics in Barcelona , Catalonia (due to sponsoring the 2024 America's Cup ) that involved an administratively opaque fashion show, significant damages in the Park Güell 's UNESCO World Heritage Site , and multiple citizen protests against the company. The Louis Vuitton label was founded by Vuitton in 1854 on Rue Neuve des Capucines in Paris . Louis Vuitton had observed that
832-438: A spokeswoman for the publisher, Fayard, said: "They have not contested anything in the book, but they are trying to bury it by pretending it doesn't exist." Responding to the book's release in 2004, a spokesman for LVMH said: "This is ancient history. The book covers a period when it was family-run and long before it became part of LVMH. We are diverse, tolerant and all the things a modern company should be." An LVMH spokesman told
936-424: A traumatic event for him and his family, revealing that his father was "never the same man" after the loss. Albert was an enthusiastic sportsman, participating in cross country, javelin throwing, handball, judo, swimming, tennis, rowing, sailing, skiing, squash and fencing. He became a judo black belt in 1985. Albert competed in the bobsleigh at five consecutive Winter Olympics for Monaco, taking part in both
1040-725: A well-known automotive enthusiast, owns vehicles like the BMW Hydrogen 7 , the Lexus LS 600h , the Lexus RX 400h , and the Toyota Prius PHV . He also owns a Dassault Aviation Falcon 7X , a 14-passenger leisure jet, currently stationed at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport . Albert was close friends with the artist Nall and owns some of his works. On 19 March 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe , it
1144-640: A wide network of outside investigators and a team of lawyers." The company closely controls the distribution of its products. Until the 1980s, Vuitton products were widely sold in department stores , such as Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue . Today, Vuitton products are primarily available at company-owned Louis Vuitton boutiques, with a small number of exceptions noted in upscale shopping districts or inside luxury department stores. Company boutiques within department stores operate independently, and are operated by company managers and employees. LV has an official online store, through its main website. In 2006,
SECTION 10
#17328547305311248-553: Is Vuitton's communications and events director. On 26 March 2018, Virgil Abloh was named artistic director of men's wear, replacing Kim Jones who had departed for Dior —he was the label's first African-American artistic director and one of few black designers of a major European fashion house. His debut show was held at the 2018 Paris Men's Fashion Week and staged in the historical Palais-Royal gardens' courtyard. On 28 November 2021, Abloh died of cardiac angiosarcoma , which he had been battling privately for two years prior. LV
1352-475: Is a French luxury fashion house and company founded in 1854 by Louis Vuitton . The label's LV monogram appears on most of its products, ranging from luxury bags and leather goods to ready-to-wear , shoes, perfumes, watches, jewellery, accessories, sunglasses and books . Louis Vuitton is one of the world's leading international fashion houses. It sells its products through standalone boutiques , lease departments in high-end departmental stores , and through
1456-459: Is described as their most luxurious store in London. In early 2011, Louis Vuitton hired Kim Jones as its "Men Ready-to-Wear Studio and Style Director". He became the lead designer of menswear while working under the company-wide artistic directorship of Marc Jacobs. On 17 September 2011, the company opened its Louis Vuitton Island Maison at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore . As of September 2013 ,
1560-666: Is divided between the Prince who initiates the laws, and the National Council which votes on them. Executive power is retained by the monarch, who has veto power over all legislation proposed by the National Council. The minister of state and the Government Council are directly responsible to the Prince for the administration of the principality. Judiciary powers also belong to the monarch. The present Constitution states that
1664-581: Is one of only three states in Western Europe where the monarch still plays an active role in day-to-day politics. The Prince of Monaco exercises his authority in accordance with the Constitution and laws. He represents the principality in foreign relations, and any revision, either total or partial, of the Constitution must be jointly agreed to by the monarch and the National Council . Legislative power
1768-617: Is the monarch and head of state of the Principality of Monaco . All reigning princes and princesses have taken the name of the House of Grimaldi . When Prince Rainier III died in 2005, he was Europe's longest reigning monarch. The Grimaldi family, which has ruled Monaco for eight centuries, is Europe's longest-ruling royal family. The reigning prince is Albert II , who ascended in April 2005. Monaco, along with Liechtenstein and Vatican City ,
1872-517: Is the first incumbent head of state to have reached the North Pole. Since his ascension, the Prince has overseen the construction of various community facilities, including social housing , railway infrastructure, educational institutes for the hospitality industry , and secondary education. He currently heads an initiative to promote ethical economic activity, criminal liability, the adopting of systems to combat money laundering and organized crime, and
1976-467: Is the second recipient of this prize. In October 2017, Prince Albert received the Lowell Thomas Award from The Explorers Club , a non-profit group that promotes scientific exploration. The award is presented by the president of the club on special occasions to groups of outstanding explorers. The Club cited Prince Albert's dedication to the protection of the environment, commemorating his status as
2080-710: Is the vice-chairman of the Princess Grace Foundation-USA , an American charity founded in 1982, after his mother's death, which supports emerging artists in theatre, dance, and film, as Princess Grace did in her lifetime. Albert holds patronages with AS Monaco , the World Olympians Association , the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters , the Peace and Sport Organization, and Junior Chamber International . He holds official and honorary presidencies within
2184-467: Is translated into 13 different languages. This is the first Vuitton commercial ad ever and was directed by renowned French ad director Bruno Aveillan . In 2002, president and CEO of LVMH Watches Daniel Lalonde (later, global CEO for LVMH brands Moët and Dom Pérignon) recruited celebrities, such as Maria Sharapova, Brad Pitt, Tiger Woods, and Uma Thurman, for advertising campaigns photographed by Patrick Demarchelier . Ads featuring Woods reportedly led to
SECTION 20
#17328547305312288-645: The 1867 Universal Exhibition in Paris . In 1871, Ōyama Iwao became the first recorded Japanese customer, ordering a set of luggage while in Paris as a military observer during the Franco-Prussian War . To protect against the duplication of his look, Vuitton changed the Trianon design to a beige-and-brown stripes design in 1876. By 1885, the company opened its first store in London on Oxford Street . Soon thereafter, due to
2392-660: The Archbishop of Monaco , the Most Reverend Bernard Barsi , formally marked the beginning of his reign. Afterward, Albert returned to the Palace to host a garden party for 7,000 Monégasques born in the principality. In the courtyard, the Prince was presented with two keys of the city as a symbol of his investiture, and subsequently gave a speech. The evening ended with a fireworks display on the waterfront. The second part of his investiture took place on 19 November 2005. Albert
2496-562: The Born Free Foundation , to release a pair of leopards at the zoo. Prince Albert met McKenna after his accession to the throne, and agreed to release the leopards as well the zoo's hippo and camel. He intends to convert the Jardin into a zoo for children. In January 2009, Prince Albert left for a month-long expedition to Antarctica , where he visited 26 scientific outposts and met with climate-change experts in an attempt to learn more about
2600-670: The Brisbane International Film Festival in October 2021. On 12 February 2020, Albert and Victor Vescovo reached the bottom of Calypso Deep , a depth of 16,762 ft, in a submarine. They were only the second team to do so after a French group in 1965. In 1996, Prince Albert received the Eagle Award from the United States Sports Academy . The Eagle Award is the academy's highest international honor and
2704-596: The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species ( CITES ). This was the first time a nation had called for the inclusion of Mediterranean bluefin under CITES since Sweden at the 1992 CITES Conference, which was vehemently opposed by Japan who eventually threatened retaliation through trade barriers. Sweden withdrew its proposal. On 16 July 2009, France declared that it too would seek to have Mediterranean bluefin listed as an endangered species. Only hours later,
2808-663: The Crown Council of Monaco , the Palais Princier announced that Albert would take over the duties of his father as regent since Rainier was no longer able to exercise his princely functions. On 6 April 2005, Rainier died and Albert succeeded him as Albert II. The first part of Prince Albert II's enthronement as ruler of the Principality was on 12 July 2005, after the end of the three-month mourning period for his father. A morning Mass at Saint Nicholas Cathedral presided over by
2912-605: The Foundation for AIDS Research (also in 2000). By 2001, Stephen Sprouse , in collaboration with Marc Jacobs , designed a limited-edition line of Vuitton bags that featured graffiti written over the monogram pattern. The graffiti read Louis Vuitton and, on certain bags, the name of the bag (such as Keepall and Speedy). Certain pieces, which featured the graffiti without the Monogram canvas background, were only available on Louis Vuitton's V.I.P. customer list. Jacobs also created
3016-615: The General Assembly of the United Nations . In 2004, the Prince presided over the delegation of Monaco in Strasbourg , France, for the official accession of the Principality onto the Council of Europe . Prince Albert's mother, Princess Grace, died at age 52 as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident in 1982. In 2017, the Prince stated during an interview that his mother's death was
3120-590: The HJ Cave Osilite trunk could be easily stacked. In 1858, Vuitton introduced his flat-topped trunks with Trianon canvas, making them lightweight and airtight. Before the introduction of Vuitton's trunks, rounded-top trunks were used, generally to promote water runoff, and thus could not be stacked. It was Vuitton's gray Trianon canvas flat trunk that allowed the ability to stack them on top of another with ease for voyages. Many other luggage makers later imitated Vuitton's style and design. The company participated in
3224-535: The Lycée Albert Premier , in 1976. He was a camper, and later a counselor for six summers at Camp Tecumseh , on Lake Winnipesaukee , Moultonborough , New Hampshire , in the 1970s. He spent a year training in princely duties before enrolling at Amherst College , in Massachusetts , in 1977 as Albert Grimaldi. He joined Chi Psi Fraternity and lived in the Alpha Chi Lodge. Albert spent mid-1979 touring Europe and
Albert II, Prince of Monaco - Misplaced Pages Continue
3328-619: The Mare Nostrum swimming meet in Monaco. They made their public debut as a couple at the opening ceremony of the 2006 Winter Olympics . She accompanied him to the weddings of the Crown Princess of Sweden in 2010 and of the Duke of Cambridge in 2011. Their engagement was announced by the palace on 10 June 2010. The wedding was originally scheduled for 8 and 9 July 2011, but was moved forward to prevent
3432-524: The Monaco Red Cross , Comité Olympique Monégasque , Association Mondiale des Amis de l'Enfance , The Automobile Club de Monaco, The Festival de Télévision de Monte-Carlo, and Jumping International de Monte Carlo. Albert is affiliated with International Paralympic Committee , Junior Chamber International , and Art of the Olympians . Albert is also a global adviser to Orphans International . In 2001, at
3536-756: The Nazis during the German occupation of France . The French book Louis Vuitton, A French Saga , authored by French journalist Stephanie Bonvicini and published by Paris-based Editions Fayard, tells how members of the Vuitton family actively aided the Vichy government led by Marshal Philippe Pétain and increased their wealth from their business affairs with the Germans. The family set up a factory dedicated to producing artefacts glorifying Pétain, including more than 2,500 busts. Caroline Babulle,
3640-480: The Société des Bains de Mer , which operates Monaco's casino and other entertainment properties in the principality. In July 2011, Prince Albert married South African Olympic swimmer Charlene Wittstock . He has four children: Jazmin , Alexandre , Gabriella , and Jacques . Prince Albert was born in the Prince's Palace of Monaco on 14 March 1958, as the second child of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace . At
3744-631: The e-commerce section of its website. Louis Vuitton merged with Moët Hennessy in 1987 to create LVMH , of which it is a subsidiary. For six consecutive years (2006–2012), Louis Vuitton was named the world's most valuable luxury brand . Its 2012 valuation was US$ 25.9 billion. In 2013, the valuation of the brand was US$ 28.4 billion with revenue of US$ 9.4 billion. The company operates in 50 countries with more than 460 stores worldwide. Louis Vuitton has faced some episodes of criticism : continuous targeting due to its failures in ceasing forced labour , alleged mistreatment of its models in 2017, and
3848-425: The 1980s. It previously relied on selected press for its advertising campaigns (frequently involving prestigious stars like Steffi Graf , Andre Agassi and Catherine Deneuve ) shot by Annie Leibovitz . However, Antoine Arnault , director of the communication department, has recently decided to enter the world of television and cinema: The commercial (90 seconds) is exploring the theme "Where will life take you?" and
3952-471: The 1988, 1994, and 1998 Winter Olympics. He also took part in the 1985 Paris–Dakar Rally , but did not complete it. Albert has been a member of the International Olympic Committee since 1985, and his maternal grandfather, John B. Kelly Sr. , and maternal uncle, John B. Kelly Jr. , were both Olympic medalists in rowing . In 2017 Albert gained OLY post-nominal status under his competition name of Albert Grimaldi. On 31 March 2005, following consultation with
4056-655: The 36th Congress of the Mediterranean Science Commission held in the Principality, the CIESM Member States unanimously elected Monaco in the person of Prince Albert to the presidence of the commission. The year 2007 was declared as (International) Year of the Dolphin by the United Nations and United Nations Environment Programme . Prince Albert served as the International Patron of the "Year of
4160-723: The American Architect Eric Carlson and released the Speedy watch collection. In 2006, LV held the inauguration of the Espace Louis Vuitton on its 7th floor. In 2008, Louis Vuitton released the Damier Graphite canvas. The canvas features the classic Damier pattern but in black and grey, giving it a masculine look and urban feel. Also in 2008, Pharrell Williams co-designed a series of jewellery ("Blason") and glasses for Louis Vuitton. In 2010, Louis Vuitton opened what
4264-496: The Dolphin", saying "The Year of the Dolphin gives me the opportunity to renew my firm commitment towards protecting marine biodiversity. With this strong initiative we can make a difference to save these fascinating marine mammals from the brink of extinction." The Zoological Garden of Monaco (Jardin Animalier) was founded by Prince Rainier in 1954. Rainier was petitioned unsuccessfully for many years by Virginia McKenna , founder of
Albert II, Prince of Monaco - Misplaced Pages Continue
4368-644: The French media. The Prince The Princess In 2016, Albert purchased Princess Grace's childhood home in East Falls , Philadelphia , which was originally built by her father Jack Kelly Sr. . Upon acquiring it, he stated the house might be used as a museum space or as offices for the Princess Grace Foundation . Prince Albert does not have direct ownership of the Prince's Palace , but does possess personal homes in both La Turbie and Marchais . Albert,
4472-857: The Grimaldi family's acquisition of various fiefs ; they no longer imply ownership or territorial authority, although the princes of Monaco have long been substantial owners of land and chateaux in France. Most were granted or recognised by the Kingdom of France or the Papal States and could only pass through the male line; they therefore became extinct as French dignities on the death of Albert's great-grandfather Prince Louis II in 1949. Thereafter, some of these titles were implicitly re-created as distinctly Monegasque titles. The Prince's complete titles and styles are, in precedent order of rank: All palace correspondence features capitalized pronouns when referring to
4576-561: The Hong Kong-based Apple Daily newspaper, the company was seeking a compensation of HK$ 25,000 (around US$ 3,200) and the publication of an apology in the form of newspaper advertisement. The owner had sourced basic furniture and equipment from the PRC for starting his shop. Facing this accusation, the barbershop owner said he had no means to tackle Louis Vuitton and may have to close down his shop which has been operating for one year in
4680-560: The Keepall bag was introduced. During 1932, LV introduced the Noé bag. This bag was originally made for champagne vintners to transport bottles. Soon thereafter, the Louis Vuitton Speedy bag was introduced (both are still manufactured today). In 1936 Georges Vuitton died, and his son, Gaston-Louis Vuitton, assumed control of the company. During World War II, Louis Vuitton collaborated with
4784-738: The Middle East with the Amherst College Glee Club , and also undertook an exchange program with the University of Bristol , at the Alfred Marshall School of Economics and Management, in 1979. He graduated in 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science . He speaks French, German, Italian, and English. From September 1981 to April 1982, Albert trained on board the French Navy's helicopter cruiser Jeanne d'Arc , attaining
4888-416: The Monogram Vernis line, the LV scrapbooks, and the Louis Vuitton City Guide . The last events in the 20th century were the release of the mini monogram line in 1999. The opening of the first store in Africa in Marrakech, Morocco , in 2000. Finally, the auction at the International Film Festival in Venice, Italy , where the vanity case "amfAR" designed by Sharon Stone was sold, with the proceeds going to
4992-503: The Palace Hotel. Further products became introduced such as the Taiga leather line in 1993, and the literature collection of Voyager Avec... in 1994. In 1996, the celebration of the Centennial of the Monogram canvas was held in seven cities worldwide. In 1997, Louis Vuitton made Marc Jacobs its Artistic Director. In March of the following year, he designed and introduced the company's first " prêt-à-porter " line of clothing for men and women. Also in this year products introduced included
5096-472: The Principality of Monaco would become a protectorate of the French Republic. Prior to 2002, Monaco's constitution stipulated that only the last reigning prince's "direct and legitimate" descendants could inherit the crown. On 2 April 2002, Monaco promulgated Princely Law 1.249, which provides that if a reigning prince dies without surviving legitimate issue, the throne passes to his legitimate siblings and their legitimate descendants of both sexes, according to
5200-441: The Speedy bag produced in 1930 and Neverfull bags produced in 2007. Both bags have become Louis Vuitton's most successful handbag launches. They were designed for being both stylish and practical. These bags also come in three sizes: Petite Modele, Moyene Modele, and Grand Modele. Each season Louis Vuitton produces rare, limited edition bags that are generally only available by reservation through larger Louis Vuitton stores. Many of
5304-440: The United Kingdom followed suit. On 19 September 2017, Prince Albert expressed his great interest for the preliminary draft of the Global Pact for the Environment presented by French President Emmanuel Macron in the context of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly . He added that he will be very attentive to the future of this Pact, which he qualified as a "universal, legally binding agreement, which recognises
SECTION 50
#17328547305315408-531: The United States, where he toured cities such as New York, Philadelphia , and Chicago, selling Vuitton products. In 1901, the Louis Vuitton Company introduced the Steamer Bag , a smaller piece of luggage designed to be kept inside Vuitton luggage trunks. By 1913, the Louis Vuitton Building opened on the Champs-Elysees . It was the largest travel-goods store in the world at the time. Stores also opened in New York, Bombay , Washington , London, Alexandria , and Buenos Aires as World War I began. Afterwards, in 1930,
5512-610: The cease-and-desist order on her website. On 15 April 2008, Louis Vuitton notified Plesner of the lawsuit being brought against her. Louis Vuitton demanded $ 7,500 (€5,000) for each day Plesner continues to sell the "Simple Living" products, $ 7,500 for each day the original cease-and-desist letter is published on her website and $ 7,500 a day for using the name "Louis Vuitton" on her website, plus legal and enforcement costs. An LVMH spokeswoman interviewed by New York Magazine said that Louis Vuitton were forced to take legal action when Plesner did not respond to their original request to remove
5616-473: The charm bracelet, the first-ever piece of jewellery from LV, within the same year. In 2002, the Tambour watch collection was introduced. During this year, the LV building in Tokyo's Ginza district was opened, and the brand collaborated with Bob Wilson for its Christmas windows scenography. In 2003, Takashi Murakami , in collaboration with Marc Jacobs , masterminded the new Monogram Multicolore canvas range of handbags and accessories. This range included
5720-492: The colours of the flag of Israel, sporting with House signature patterns which was described as 'disgraceful'. The users on Twitter started tweeting memes that carried the infamous quote, "If I don't steal it, someone else will" by a repatriated Israeli citizen who recently went viral for trying to illegally occupy a Palestinian's home. Another user accused Louis Vuitton for being politically neutral when it comes to Palestine and Israel, but they're "totally cool" with making money off
5824-469: The company distributes its products through the company's own website, LouisVuitton.com. In June 2021, Louis Vuitton sparked controversy by marketing a $ 700 scarf called 'Monogram Keffieh'. The traditional Palestinian black and white keffiyeh has been a symbol of Palestinian nationalism since 1968. Louis Vuitton, however, changed the colours from the original black and white to blue and white which Palestinians and pro-Palestine social media activists called
5928-435: The company filed a lawsuit against Colorado -based Manifest Information Services Ltd. (aka Manifest Hostmaster and Manifest.com), through WIPO , in order to compel Manifest transfer the domain name LV.com to Louis Vuitton; the legal action failed and the domain was subsequently acquired by Liverpool Victoria (LV=), England's largest fraternal insurance company . Several high-profile rap music artists have mentioned
6032-425: The company hired Darren Spaziani to lead its accessory collection. On 4 November 2013, the company confirmed that Nicolas Ghesquière had been hired to replace Marc Jacobs as artistic director of women's collections. Ghesquière's first line for the company was shown in Paris in March 2014. On 7 April 2014, Edouard Schneider became the head of press and public relations at Louis Vuitton under Frédéric Winckler, who
6136-483: The company in song lyrics, most notably: Kanye West , Juicy J , and Wiz Khalifa . Louis Vuitton has been operating in China for 30 years and nowadays the country is the main market for the French maison, boasting about 40 offline stores nationwide. On 13 February 2007, Louis Vuitton sent a cease-and-desist order to Danish art student Nadia Plesner for using an image of a bag that allegedly infringed Louis Vuitton's intellectual property rights. Plesner had created
6240-417: The company management seems to have forgotten the origins of Louis Vuitton's designs. The Shoso-in archive has a biwa lute with marquetry patterns to which some Louis Vuitton's designs bear a close resemblance. Since the 19th century, Louis Vuitton trunks have been made by hand. Contemporary Fashion gives a preview of the creation of the LV trunks: The craftsmen line up the leather and canvas, tapping in
6344-438: The company revamped its signature Monogram canvas in 1959 to make it more supple, allowing it to be used for purses, bags, and wallets. It is believed that in the 1920s, counterfeiting returned as a greater issue to continue on into the 21st century. In 1966, the Papillon was launched (a cylindrical bag that is still popular today). By 1977 with annual revenue up to 70 million Francs (US$ 14.27 million). A year later,
SECTION 60
#17328547305316448-419: The company was seeking compensation of HK$ 40,000 (around $ US 5,000) and a public apology in the newspaper. The shopkeeper refused to pay, and Louis Vuitton demanded further damages up to HK$ 150,000 in February 2013. The shop claimed to have sourced two such handbags from Japan at around HK$ 120, which it retailed at HK$ 220. In the case of the other small shop selling two handbags, they argued with Louis Vuitton that
6552-443: The company's products at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893. In 1896, the company launched the signature Monogram canvas and made the worldwide patents on it. Its graphic symbols, including quatrefoils and flowers (as well as the LV monogram), were based on the trend of using Japanese Mon designs in the late Victorian era . The patents later proved to be successful in stopping counterfeiting. In this same year, Georges travelled to
6656-440: The company's products utilize the brown Damier and Monogram canvas materials, both of which were first used in the late 19th century. All of the company's products exhibit the eponymous LV initials. The company markets its product through its own stores located throughout the world, which allows it to control product quality and pricing. It also allows LV to prevent counterfeit products entering its distribution channels. In addition,
6760-517: The contested image, nor to the subsequent cease-and-desist order. In October 2008, Louis Vuitton declared that the company had dropped its lawsuit but have since reopened it along with a new €205,000 claim due to a painting by the same artist. In May 2011, the court in The Hague found in favour of Plesner's right to freedom of expression . On 19 November 2007 Louis Vuitton, in further efforts to prevent counterfeiting, successfully sued Britney Spears for violating anti-counterfeiting laws. A part of
6864-417: The continuing imitation of his look, in 1888, Vuitton created the Damier Canvas pattern, which bore a logo that reads " marque L. Vuitton déposée ", which translates into "L. Vuitton registered trademark ". In 1892, Louis Vuitton died, and the company's management passed to his son. After the death of his father, Georges Vuitton began a campaign to build the company into a worldwide corporation, exhibiting
6968-459: The death of Prince Rainier. Under the current constitution, neither Jazmin nor Alexandre are in the line of succession to the Monegasque throne as they are not Prince Albert II's legitimate children, and he emphasised their ineligibility to inherit the throne in statements confirming his paternity. Monegasque law stipulates that any non-adulterine illegitimate child is legitimised by the eventual marriage of his/her parents, thereupon obtaining
7072-549: The deportation of a total of 90 Jews and resistance fighters to the Nazis in 1942, of whom only nine survived. "We committed the irreparable in handing over to the neighboring authorities women, men, and a child who had taken refuge with us to escape the persecutions they had suffered in France," Albert said at a ceremony in which a monument to the victims was unveiled at the Monaco Cemetery . "In distress, they came specifically to take shelter with us, thinking they would find neutrality." Between 2006 and 2022, Albert's chief of cabinet
7176-442: The designs were different, and got LV's demand reduced to HK$ 5,000 (around US$ 640). The owner refused to pay and said they were ready to face LV in court. In February 2013, Louis Vuitton issued a complaint against the owner of a barber shop in Hong Kong for allegedly violating its intellectual property rights in relation to a stool using fabric coating that is similar to the checker pattern in Louis Vuitton's handbags. According to
7280-696: The fashion world due to its image as a status symbol. Ironically, the signature Monogram canvas was created to prevent counterfeiting. In 2004, Louis Vuitton fakes accounted for 18% of counterfeit accessories seized in the European Union . The company actively seeks to eradicate counterfeiting , and employs a team of lawyers and special investigation agencies to pursue offenders through the courts worldwide. The company allocates approximately half of its communications budget to counteract counterfeiting of its goods. LVMH , Vuitton's parent company, has described "Some 60 people at various levels of responsibility working full-time on anti-counterfeiting in collaboration with
7384-452: The festivities throughout the country. The evening ended with a dedicated performance at the Opéra de Monte-Carlo . As Rainier III's health declined, Albert's lack of legitimate children became a matter of public and political concern owing to the legal and international consequences. Had Prince Albert succeeded his father and died without lawful heirs, it would have triggered Article 3 of the 1918 Franco-Monegasque Treaty , according to which
7488-578: The first head of state to reach both the North and South poles. On 14 October 2019 at the Comenius University in Bratislava, he received the honorary title "doctor honoris causa" for activities in the field of protection of natural and cultural heritage within his efforts to combat climate change . As Monaco's head of state, Prince Albert II is depicted on both standard-issue and collector's coins, such as
7592-575: The impact of global warming on the continent. During the trip, he stopped at the South Pole, making him the only incumbent head of state to have visited both poles. In June 2009, Prince Albert co-authored an op-ed published in The Wall Street Journal with Charles Clover , the author of The End of the Line , a book about overfishing and ocean conservation issues that had recently been made into
7696-641: The introduction of tax fraud into Monegasque criminal law. In 2006, Prince Albert created the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation , which continues Monaco's commitment to supporting sustainable and ethical projects around the world. The foundation's focus has three main objectives: climate change and renewable energy development, combating the loss of biodiversity , and improving universal access to clean water. In July 2011, Albert married South African Olympic swimmer Charlene Wittstock . On 27 August 2015, Prince Albert apologized for Monaco's role in facilitating
7800-825: The keffiyeh. In 2017 Louis Vuitton caused headlines by producing a men's collection using similar prints as Basotho blanket and Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana designs, a controversial move that sparked accusations of cultural appropriation in South Africa and Lesotho . The Louis Vuitton company cultivates a celebrity following and has featured famous models, musicians and actors, such as Lea Seydoux , Jennifer Lopez , Keith Richards , Kim Kardashian , Madonna , Sean Connery , Matthias Schoenaerts , Angelina Jolie , Gisele Bündchen , Mikhail Gorbachev , JO1 and David Bowie in its marketing campaigns. The company commonly uses print ads in magazines and billboards in cosmopolitan cities. Louis Vuitton Posters by Razzia were popular in
7904-713: The label opened its first stores in Japan: in Tokyo and Osaka . In 1983, the company joined with America's Cup to form the Louis Vuitton Cup , a preliminary competition (known as an eliminatory regatta) for the yacht race. Louis Vuitton later expanded its presence in Asia with the opening of a store in Taipei , Taiwan in 1983 and Seoul , South Korea in 1984. In the following year, 1985, the Epi leather line
8008-448: The monarchy. The princely family receives annual allocation from the budget of Monaco, €43.5 million in 2015. The Prince is styled His Serene Highness . Although used only formally, the Prince also bears several other hereditary titles, some of which are occasionally bestowed on his relatives or their spouses. Some of these titles have merged with the Crown of Monaco as a result of
8112-508: The monograms of the standard Monogram canvas but in 33 different colours on either a white or black background. (The classic canvas features gold monograms on a brown background.) Murakami also created the Cherry Blossom pattern, in which smiling cartoon faces in the middle of pink and yellow flowers were sporadically placed atop the Monogram canvas. This pattern appeared on a limited number of pieces. The production of this limited-edition run
8216-460: The music video for the song " Do Somethin' " shows fingers tapping on the dashboard of a hot pink Hummer with what looks like Louis Vuitton's "Cherry Blossom" design bearing the LV logo. Britney Spears herself was not found liable, but a civil court in Paris ordered Sony BMG and MTV Online to stop showing the video. They were also fined €80,000 to each group. An anonymous spokesperson for LVMH stated that
8320-403: The press , legislative gender equality, and the protection of children's rights and disabled students. In July 2005, in echo of Albert I , his great-great-grandfather, he travelled to Spitsbergen , Norway. During this trip, he visited the glaciers Lilliehöökbreen and Monacobreen . Prince Albert also engaged in a Russian Arctic expedition, reaching the North Pole on Easter , 16 April 2006. He
8424-471: The prince has full authority in the courts and tribunals which render justice in his or her name. Pursuant to Article 16 of the 1962 Constitution, the Prince confers orders , titles and other distinctions (see Awards and decorations of Monaco ) as the fons honorum of the Principality of Monaco. In 2005, The New York Times reported that loyalty to the princely family is fierce; few residents of Monaco want to be quoted saying anything negative about
8528-638: The prince. The tradition of the monarchy of Monaco was that the flag flying from the staff on the tower above his office be hoisted when the prince was present in Monaco. The current prince flies the flag whether he is present or not, preferring to keep his location private. Monaco is officially protected by France, according to terms set forth in the Treaty of Versailles in 1919. Louis Vuitton Louis Vuitton Malletier SAS , commonly known as Louis Vuitton ( / l uː ˈ iː v ɪ ˈ t ɒ n / , French: [lwi vɥitɔ̃] ),
8632-522: The principle of male-preference primogeniture . Following Albert's accession, this law took full effect in 2005 when ratified by France, pursuant to the Franco-Monégasque Treaty regulating relations between the Principality and its neighbour. Prince Albert's sisters and their legitimate children thereby retained the right to inherit the Monegasque throne, which they would have otherwise lost upon
8736-464: The rank of Ship-of-the-Line Ensign (2nd class), and is currently a reserve Lieutenant Commander . From 1983 to 1985, he took training courses with companies J.P. Morgan & Co , Louis Vuitton , Rogers & Wells , and Wells, Rich and Greene in the United States and Europe, studying financial management, communication, and marketing. Since May 1993, the Prince has led the Monegasque delegation to
8840-510: The region," due to the Russo-Ukrainian War . An LVMH spokesperson stated the company would continue to pay salary and benefits to its 3,500 employees in Russia. On 14 February 2023, Pharrell Williams was named creative director of men's wear. The Louis Vuitton brand and the LV monogram are among the world's most valuable brands. According to a Millward Brown 2010 study, Louis Vuitton
8944-532: The right of future generations to sustainable development." After having met Torres Strait Islander artist and activist Alick Tipoti in 2016, Prince Albert went to stay with his family on Badu Island , and collaborated with him on the film Alick and Albert (2021), a feature-length documentary film about the future of the oceans, and how climate change affects people in the Torres Strait Islands as well as Monaco. The film had its world premiere at
9048-427: The rights to which that child would have been entitled if born in lawful marriage. Thus Alexandre would have become Monaco's heir apparent under current law if Albert were to marry Alexandre's mother. In a 2005 exchange with American reporter Larry King , Albert stated that this would not happen. Prior to the birth of Princess Gabriella and Prince Jacques, Prince Albert's elder sister, Caroline, Princess of Hanover ,
9152-581: The satirical magazine Le Canard Enchaîné : "We don't deny the facts, but regrettably the author has exaggerated the Vichy episode. We haven't put any pressure on anyone. If the journalists want to censor themselves, then that suits us fine." That publication was the only French periodical to mention the book, possibly because LVMH is the country's biggest advertiser in the press. During this period, Louis Vuitton began to incorporate leather into most of its products, which ranged from small purses and wallets to larger pieces of luggage. In order to broaden its line,
9256-620: The time of his birth, he was heir apparent to the throne. Albert was a dual citizen of both the Principality of Monaco and the United States of America by birth, before renouncing his American citizenship in his early adulthood. He was baptized on 20 April 1958, by Monsignor Jean Delay, Archbishop of Marseille , in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of Monaco . His godparents were Prince Louis de Polignac and Queen Victoria Eugenie of Spain . Albert graduated with distinction from
9360-462: The tiny nails one by one and securing the five-letter solid pick-proof brass locks with an individual handmade key, designed to allow the traveller to have only one key for all of his or her luggage. The wooden frames of each trunk are made of 30-year-old poplar that has been allowed to dry for at least four years. Each trunk has a serial number and can take up to 60 hours to make, and a suitcase as many as 15 hours. Iconic bags of Louis Vuitton include
9464-663: The two-man and four-man events. In the two-man bobsleigh Albert finished 25th at the 1988 games in Calgary, 43rd at the 1992 games in Albertville, and 31st at the 1994 games . In the four-man bobsleigh Albert finished 27th in 1992 , 26th at the 1994 games in Lillehammer, and 28th at both the 1998 games in Nagano and the 2002 games in Salt Lake City . Albert was Monaco's flag bearer at
9568-523: The video constituted an "attack" on Louis Vuitton's brands and its luxury image. In another legal warning dated back to September 2012, Louis Vuitton had filed complaints against two small retail shops in Hong Kong for allegedly violating its intellectual property rights in relation to the "S-Lock" design for Louis Vuitton's handbags. According to the Hong Kong-based Apple Daily newspaper,
9672-469: The €5 silver Prince Albert II commemorative coin , the first commemorative coin with his effigy, minted in 2008. On the obverse, the prince is depicted in profile with his name on the top of the coin. On the reverse, the Grimaldi coat of arms appears; around it, the words "Principauté de Monaco" (Principality of Monaco) also appear along with the nominal monetary value of the coin. Prince of Monaco The sovereign prince ( French : prince de Monaco )
9776-404: Was heir presumptive and, according to the Grimaldi house law , bore the traditional title of Hereditary Princess of Monaco. Following their births, she is now third in line. In the early years of his reign, Prince Albert oversaw multiple judicial and legal reforms, including the regulation of custody , protections of the privacy of the individual in the face of technological growth, freedom of
9880-412: Was Georges Lisimachio. In June 2023, Albert dismissed Claude Palmero , the manager of the Prince of Monaco's assets who had been serving for over two decades. Albert said of the decision, "I exercised my right to choose the asset manager of my choice. Events have shown how much this decision was the right one." Palmero proceeded to sue Albert for €1 million and leaked information of the palace's spending to
9984-407: Was announced that Albert II had tested positive for COVID-19 , making him the first monarch and head of state to have contracted COVID-19. It was reported that he had begun to self-quarantine from within his apartment, performing his work and duties from there. On 31 March, it was announced that he had made a full recovery. In April 2022, he tested positive for COVID-19 for the second time and observed
10088-601: Was appointed regent in March 2005 after his father fell ill, and became sovereign prince upon the latter's death a week later. Since his ascension, he has been outspoken in the field of environmentalism and an advocate of ocean conservation , and adoption of renewable energy sources to tackle global climate change , and founded Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation in 2006, to directly raise funds and initiate action for such causes and greater ecological preservation . With assets valued in 2010 at US$ 1 billion, Albert owns shares in
10192-602: Was awarded to Prince Albert for his significant contributions in promoting international harmony, peace and goodwill through the effective use of sport. On 23 October 2009, Prince Albert was awarded the Roger Revelle Prize for his efforts to protect the environment and to promote scientific research. This award was given to Prince Albert by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla , California. Prince Albert
10296-879: Was discontinued in June 2003. Within 2003, the stores in Moscow, Russia, and in New Delhi, India were opened, the Utah and Suhali leather lines were released, and the 20th anniversary of the LV Cup was held. In 2004, Louis Vuitton celebrated its 150th anniversary. The brand also inaugurated stores in New York City (on Fifth Avenue ), São Paulo , Mexico City , Cancun and Johannesburg . It also opened its first global store in Shanghai. By 2005, Louis Vuitton reopened its Champs-Élysées store in Paris designed by
10400-541: Was enthroned at Saint Nicholas Cathedral. The Princely family was in attendance, including his elder sister, Princess Caroline with her husband Ernst, Prince of Hanover and three of her four children, Andrea , Pierre and Charlotte ; as well as his younger sister Princess Stéphanie , his paternal aunt Princess Antoinette, Baroness of Massy , his godson, Jean-Léonard Taubert de Massy , and his cousin Elisabeth-Anne de Massy . Royalty from 16 delegations were present for
10504-561: Was in the first place in the BrandZ's top 10 most valuable luxury brands in 2019, with a worth of $ 47.2 billion. On 15 January 2020, the company acquired the Sewelô diamond, which is the third-largest rough diamond ever found in history, from Lucara Diamond who mined it from their mine in Botswana. In March 2022, LVMH announced closure of its 120+ stores in Russia, "given the current circumstances in
10608-551: Was introduced. 1987 saw the creation of LVMH . Moët et Chandon and Hennessy , leading manufacturers of champagne and cognac , merged respectively with Louis Vuitton to form the luxury goods conglomerate. Profits for 1988 were reported to have been up by 49% more than in 1987. By 1989, Louis Vuitton came to operate 130 stores worldwide. Entering the 1990s, Yves Carcelle was named president of LV, and in 1992, Louis Vuitton entered mainland China by opening its first store in Beijing at
10712-492: Was presided over by Archbishop Bernard Barsi . The couple honeymooned in South Africa, where they stayed in separate hotels, and Mozambique. Prince Albert and Princess Charlene had twins, Princess Gabriella, Countess of Carladès , and Jacques, Hereditary Prince of Monaco , on 10 December 2014. Jacques is the heir apparent to the throne. Albert holds affiliations and patronages within numerous philanthropic organizations. He
10816-476: Was then the world's 19th most valuable brand, and was estimated to be worth over US$ 19 billion. For six consecutive years, Louis Vuitton was number one of the 10 most powerful brands list published by the Millward Brown Optimor's 2011 BrandZ study with value of $ 24.3 billion. It was more than double the value of the second ranking brand. Louis Vuitton is one of the most counterfeited brands in
#530469