The Spring-Summer 2025 Haute Couture Week in Paris concluded yesterday, leaving a lasting impression despite a smaller lineup of participants. The event reaffirmed the essence of haute couture, blending tradition with modernity in breathtaking ways.
Daniel Roseberry, creative director of Schiaparelli, drew inspiration from the myth of Icarus and the legacy of George Michael. His collection explored themes of ambition and perfection, merging contemporary design with the heritage of iconic figures like Elsa Schiaparelli, Balenciaga, and Alexander McQueen.
Maria Grazia Chiuri of Dior embraced childlike wonder, referencing Yves Saint Laurent's trapezoidal silhouettes, surrealist artists Leonor Fini and Dorothea Tanning, and Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland." Her collection featured mini-crinolines, pannier skirts, ribbons, and ruffles, exuding joy and whimsy.
Giambattista Valli transported audiences to Marrakech with his collection, "Les Jardins de la Ménara." Inspired by the serene beauty of the Menara Gardens, the designs celebrated Morocco's cultural richness and vibrant color palette.
As Matthieu Blazy prepares to take the helm at Chanel, the design team reflected on the brand's 110-year legacy of haute couture. The collection emphasized constant renewal and the timeless charm that defines Chanel.
Alexandre Vauthier stood out with his emphasis on structure and silhouette. His spring-summer collection highlighted meticulous craftsmanship, offering a fresh perspective on haute couture's role in everyday fashion.
Alessandro Michele debuted his first haute couture collection outside of Gucci and Valentino, drawing inspiration from Umberto Eco's "The Infinity of Lists." The 48-piece collection featured esoteric and circus motifs, knightly armor, and nods to Valentino Garavani's archives.
Giorgio Armani marked the 20th anniversary of Armani Privé with the "Lumières" collection. Inspired by light, the designs featured 5-carat gemstone buttons, translucent dresses, and intricate beadwork, showcasing unparalleled elegance.
Ludovic de Saint Sernin presented "Le Naufrage" (The Shipwreck), a collection inspired by Jean Paul Gaultier's archives and the music video of Mylène Farmer. The designs featured mermaids, sailors, and pirates, blending fantasy with Gaultier's signature style.
