The Best of Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week

The Spring/Summer 2021 Paris Haute Couture Week could simply be described as one word, and that is revolutionary. We witnessed looks ranging from classic fairy tale, molded bustiers, and glamorous gowns, to soft, flowery pastels. Considering that the pandemic has sent us into a seemingly never-ending cycle of cozy-chic attire, this season’s looks were a refreshing sight. Amidst the times of social isolation, they were able to pull off a breathtaking show.

Dior

Dior’s collection of Snow White meets Romeo and Juliet was something straight out of a fairytale, with horses, crowns, and delicate dresses. Taking inspiration from Tarot symbols and fantasy, these golden-laced vintage looks bring you back to your childhood dreams in the best way possible.

Schiaparelli

Schiaparelli served alternative looks, pulling inspiration from realism of the human body and form. This is seen in their bright pink bustier and looks resembling human hair. Daniel Roseberry, the artistic director, had a vision of transforming haute couture’s typical looks into something fresh and never before seen. He notes the possible misconception of the design; it is not meant to portray masculine form, but to redefine feminine form.

“It’s not about being a man at all, it’s about being a jacked woman,” said Roseberry.

Showcasing parts of the body that may not be in a typical haute couture look, they showed pieces such as long golden hair and feet.

Van Herpen

The looks by Iris van Herpen showcased unique styles inspired by the beauty, life itself, in ”Roots of Rebirth.”

“A collection that references the intricacy of fungi and the entanglement of life that breathes beneath our feet.” The natural shapes and colors of the Earth shine through in each look. Using the model’s body to style the look, Herpen noted that it reflects their body shape. The way the garment syncs with their bodies is an important aspect of the look overall.

An intriguing twist on fashion itself, the inspiration for a handful of the looks resembling mushrooms came from “Entangled Life,” a novel by Merlin Sheldrake. The book is about the beauty of fungi, and how they form a “world wide web,” drawing on how the way we communicate is mirrored by how the Earth communicates underground. This is showcased through the delicate pleating and lace details, reflecting the natural shapes and colors of fungi.

Fendi

The nonconformist and sophisticated looks from designer Kim Jones were beautifully tailored for each model, including celebrities like Naomi Campbell, Cara Delevigne and a surprise cameo from Demi Moore. Featuring both male and female models, Jones took inspiration from each gender to create something fluid. He also paid homage to the late Karl Lagerfeld, using some of his classic romantic styles as inspiration for the collection. The use of muted colors brought out the intricate detailing in each look; something seemingly simple, yet so elegant.

Armani Prive

With such a wide assortment of textures, colors, and styles, the looks from designer Giorgio Armani were simply timeless. The intricate details of each piece speak to the true nature of the care used in the design; a lovely deep blue velvet adorned with dazzling beads and crystals of different hues. The collection was a melange of colors, from neutral to vivid. Incorporated effortlessly were the sophisticated business-professional looks with a pop of silk, adorned with glitter and pearled bracelets. Alongside those styles was a bright, poppy-red ball gown, reflecting the versatile beauty of couture.

Armani used this moment in time of isolation and limited social outlets as inspiration for each style, stating that although the world is at a standstill, “the quest for beauty is eternal,” said Armani.

Viktor and Rolf

Describing their collection as a “couture rave,” Viktor and Rolf brought the party to fashion week by taking inspiration from colorful party dresses, but giving them an alternative twist. The DIY-crafty approach to the styles made it all the more fun and out of the ordinary. The youthful collection invites us to play with elements of fashion that aren’t typically paired together, but collide in an explosion of color and texture in a way that is a celebration of hope and happiness. By taking pieces of fabric and clothing and piecing them together in the style of a collage, the designers thought to reform the idea of couture and create something new.

Chanel

Creative Director Virgine Viard brought a different kind of party to fashion week. The Chanel Wedding, haute couture edition, brought soft pastels and dreams of riding in on a white horse. The bride wore an embroidered gown, adorned with pearls and butterflies, paired with a long veil. Viard’s approach to the wedding was traditional and nostalgic, with satin fabric and embroidery inspired by Coco Chanel circa 1920. The party guests had on a range of styles, from a glittery pantsuit to a colorful ruffled skirt.

Area

The collection for “people who dress out loud” was perhaps among the most unique. For their first ever couture show, Area used unique styles that branch outside the norm, with wild patterns and cake-shaped satin dresses, inspired by Saint Laurent and Balenciaga. They also incorporated Swarovski crystals into their ribcage designs, creating a glittery dream. Area took the opportunity to create fashion-forward styles and reform the definition of couture.

The Spring/Summer Haute Couture show left us with ethereal dreams. Needless to say, we were left on the edge of our bedazzled seats, wanting more. We cannot wait to see what’s in store for the next fashion week.

Strike Out,

Writer: Emma Saunders

Graphic: Melania Zilo

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