Finance

Olympic figure skating champion Alysa Liu has been appointed as the latest house ambassador for Louis Vuitton, marking a significant crossover between elite sports and high fashion. This announcement comes just months after her triumphant performance at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympics, where she secured two gold medals. Her unique style and individualistic approach have clearly resonated with the luxury brand, further cementing her burgeoning influence beyond the ice rink.

Liu's journey to becoming a Louis Vuitton ambassador began shortly after her historic Olympic victories. At the 2026 Milano-Cortina Games, she captivated global audiences with a gold medal-winning performance that stood out as a highlight of the event. Beyond her athletic prowess, Liu's distinctive personal style, which includes her notable "halo" hairstyle and a viral smiley piercing, showcased a personality that refused to be confined. She famously stated, "I don't like boxing myself in," reflecting her free-spirited attitude towards both her sport and her fashion choices.

Her introduction to the Louis Vuitton world occurred during Paris Fashion Week, where she made her debut at the brand's Fall/Winter 2026 show in March. This exposure quickly led to her inclusion in an exclusive group of house ambassadors, a roster meticulously curated by artistic director Nicolas Ghesquière, and featuring prominent figures such as Lisa, Zendaya, and Ana de Armas. Her alignment with the brand is a testament to her rising prominence not only in sports but also in the realm of fashion and popular culture.

Upon learning of the ambassadorship, Liu expressed profound excitement, describing the experience as "surreal." She emphasized the honor and privilege of such recognition, especially for a figure skater, highlighting the empowering connection she feels with Louis Vuitton's artistic vision. Her earliest recollection of the brand dates back to when she was 11, seeing a competitor with a Louis Vuitton mini backpack, a moment that sparked an early appreciation for the luxury label's aesthetic.

Liu characterizes her current personal style as eclectic and constantly evolving, mirroring her growth as an individual. She views fashion as an extension of her self-expression, much like her figure skating. For her, there is no separation between these two worlds; both serve as platforms to share her authentic self. This holistic approach to identity and style makes her a compelling and natural fit for Louis Vuitton, a brand known for celebrating individuality and artistic expression.

Alysa Liu's new role with Louis Vuitton underscores her multifaceted impact, seamlessly blending her athletic achievements with her burgeoning status as a style icon. Her partnership with the luxury brand is a reflection of her unique persona and her commitment to self-expression, promising an exciting future at the intersection of sports and fashion.

The Vogue Café made its Manhattan debut as a bustling hub of excitement, drawing a continuous stream of visitors eager to experience its unique ambiance. Chloe Malle, the magazine's editorial content head, shared insights into the creative process behind the café's menu, whose distinctively named beverages like "That's All" espressos and "The Glacial Pace" iced coffees were a hit. The atmosphere evoked a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of past iconic fashion gatherings, setting the perfect tone for the impending Met Gala.

Throughout the weekend, the café offered a diverse range of events and experiences. On Saturday, guests enjoyed a live recording of The Run-Through podcast, featuring a conversation between designer Tory Burch and Nicole Phelps. The venue also hosted a charm bar where attendees could personalize jewelry with Brooklyn-based brand Don't Let Disco, and custom totes by Alex Mill were available. By evening, the café transitioned into a lively European-inspired bar, attracting notable personalities such as Grace Gummer, Coco Jones, Alex Consani, and Tommy Dorfman, who socialized while DJ Nikki Kynard provided music and Altro Paradiso served delicious food.

Sunday's activities included a screening of "The First Monday in May," where Malle and editor Lilah Ramzi made a brief appearance, much to the delight of the audience, including the film's producer, Fabiola Beracasa Beckman. The café, situated at 234 Spring Street, continued its operations on Monday, maintaining its dynamic role as a social hotspot. This event highlighted the convergence of fashion, culture, and community, leaving guests with memorable experiences and exclusive keepsakes, including the latest issue of Vogue.

The Vogue Café's successful run exemplified how creativity and community can transform a temporary pop-up into a celebrated cultural event. It underscored the power of fashion to bring people together, creating a vibrant space where style, conversation, and shared experiences flourish. Such initiatives inspire a sense of collective joy and artistic appreciation, fostering connections that transcend the ordinary and elevate the spirit of engagement.