The Paris fashion shows brought the playfulness back to fashion week. Youth cultures and the world of art inspired a wave of creativity and bold statements. Modern art references provided colorful vibrancy and meaning as designers continued to explore and push the boundaries between genders, reassessing notions of femininity and staying true to their sustainable principles and practices.
Lion
Jonathan Anderson’s final Loewe performance was a riot of surrealism and offbeat fun. Borrowing from the work of the art movement’s big names, unexpected combinations of molded latex and shearling, sheers and wool fabrics were accented with whimsical details and novel footwear ideas. Balloon-shaped accents peeked out of dresses and shoelaces, toy cars appeared in hemlines and galosh-like lace-up boots engulfed the models’ feet in a presentation that combined high art with playful eccentricity.
Stella McCartney
The work of Frank Stella was the inspiration for Stella McCartney, who collaborated with the artist and brought his brand of linear minimalism and expressive femininity to her clean silhouettes. Dubbed Stella by Stella, monochrome zigzag lines, dissected prints and distorted pinstripes have been applied to the designer’s pant suits and knitwear, as well as Fur Free Fur. Bold pastels, ruffles, fringes and drapes, plus plush satins and velvets provided a more feminine touch that was softened by masculine tailoring. Handbags made from grape leather and mylo mushroom underscored McCartney’s commitment to sustainability.
Miu Miu
To wrap up Paris Fashion Week, Miuccia Prada set her sights on the world of sport and unveiled a sporty-inspired collection that challenged traditional dress codes. Short, low-rise skirts and tees with lace panels were teamed with knitted ballerina socks and a variety of leather pieces, showing the label’s rebellious side. Youthful and playful, with nods to her childhood pastimes, Prada continued her reconfiguration of classic womenswear silhouettes, mixing oversized blazers with mini dresses and masculine elements with lingerie-inspired looks.
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