Dior set the stage for a stunning homage to athleticism just before the Paris Olympics kicked off, taking center stage at the Musée Rodin for Paris Couture Week. The event was a star-studded affair, graced by luminaries like Jennifer Lopez, Venus Williams, Doja Cat, and Rosamund Pike. Their presence added glamour to an already spectacular evening of fashion and artistry.
Designer Maria Grazia Chiuri orchestrated a celebration of sports that spanned centuries, with vibrant artworks paying homage to athletes old and new. The runway itself became a canvas where Grecian-style drapes evoked the spirit of ancient Olympics, blending classical elegance with contemporary flair. Jersey fabric, an unusual choice for couture, cascaded gracefully on models, accented with mosaic embroidery and pearl-adorned sandals that added a touch of modernity.
Among the standout pieces was an ecru lightweight wool gown, its simplicity belying an unexpected cowl back that delighted onlookers. Venus Williams, a fashion icon in her own right, could not contain her awe from the front row, where she applauded the collection's elegance and innovation.
The week continued with Schiaparelli’s dazzling showcase at Hôtel Salomon de Rothschild, where celebrity sightings like Kylie Jenner and Doja Cat stirred excitement. Designer Daniel Roseberry drew inspiration from the mythical phoenix, symbolizing rebirth with intricate designs that fused drama and technical prowess. The opening look—a breathtaking gown with 3D chrome feathers—set the tone for a collection marked by bold statements and artistic finesse.
Phoenix motifs continued to mesmerize throughout, appearing on gowns of silk and wool crepe with plunging necklines and winged shoulders. Each piece embodied Schiaparelli's legacy of empowering women to redefine themselves through fashion. Roseberry’s collection not only paid tribute to Elsa Schiaparelli's visionary spirit but also underscored the garments’ role as both fashion statements and timeless artworks.
Iris van Herpen, known for pushing boundaries in couture, unveiled her latest collection as a testament to fashion's symbiotic relationship with art. Her sculptural pieces, showcased amid monumental artworks, challenged conventional perceptions of haute couture. Techniques like three-dimensional printing and silk folding transformed the runway into a gallery of avant-garde masterpieces. The collection's ethereal draping and gravity-defying silhouettes captivated audiences with their blend of innovation and artistic expression.
Van Herpen’s journey from fashion to art was underscored by her residence outside Amsterdam, where the tranquility and natural beauty inspired her creative process. This influence was evident in designs like the Sensorium dress, crafted from traditional obi fabric, which resonated with spiritual and serene undertones.
Giambattista Valli concluded the week with his trademark blend of Italian exuberance and Parisian chic, showcasing collections that blurred the line between fantasy and reality. His mastery in creating weightless volumes and intricate draping was showcased in pieces like a pink silk gown, where unexpected details and color clashes created a visual feast. The collection's floral motifs and poetic symbolism, from petals cascading down tulle to veiled bridal looks with metallic accents, underscored Valli’s ability to merge classicism with contemporary allure.