Fashion Designer Kellie Ford is accusing Pharrell Williams and Louis Vuitton of stealing her idea for a bag. During the super producer’s Louis Vuitton Menswear Spring-Summer 2024 Show in Paris, a leather Louis Vuitton bag was presented that resembled the shopping bags customers receive when making a purchase from the brand.
In a series of TikTok videos, the independent designer details how she went viral in 2021 for turning a Louis Vuitton shopping bag into a stylish purse. According to the designer, her work landed her over 10 million views on social media. She includes how her idol, the legendary Hip Hop designer Dapper Dan, applauded her for her work. Additionally, Ford shows the similarities between her viral bag and the new Louis Vuitton bag.
‘It’s About The Concept’
Ford’s accusation has caused quite a debate on social media. While many people support Ford’s frustration, others don’t feel Ford should be upset but instead thank Pharrell and Louis Vuitton. The designer was using Louis Vuitton’s image, and it’s unclear whether she wanted to profit from her viral bag; therefore, copyright claims may not hold any weight.
However, Ford clarifies throughout her videos that her calling out the Neptunes’ creative and Louis Vuitton “ain’t about suing.” She says it’s about the concept, according to her. The concept of wearing a paper bag and utilizing it as a purse. She even mentions how people reached out to her as soon as they saw the bag.
“‘When I seen that bag come down the runway, I instantly thought of you’…right…and I’m sure they did too when they did it,” Ford said in a video.
Ford says all she is seeking is acknowledgment that she is the visionary behind the concept. Neither Pharrell nor Louis Vuitton have commented on Ford’s accusations.
Kellie Ford, The Designer
According to her website, Ford is an indie fashion designer who started in Cincinnati, OH. She designs clothing for men, women, and children. She makes bags and accessories like her viral shopping bag. In 2021, Ford had the opportunity to design for entertainment mogul Diddy’s three youngest daughters. She created a custom look for the girls to rock at “Powerbook III: Raising Kanan” premiere.