Fashion News | The Best of Paris Fashion Week

The end of another fashion month has been signified by the end of yet another Paris Fashion Week as it appropriately should. While every Parisian collection stands alone in some way or another, it was the prominent fashion houses that truly stood out this past fashion week. With the introduction of new creative directors, it seemed to be a battle between reinvention and re-establishment, but regardless of each labels’ direction, outstanding collections were produced. Below are what we deem to be the best shows of Paris Fashion Week.

Saint Laurent

It’s doubtful that there wasn’t a single soul who wasn’t dying over the Saint Laurent FW16 collection. The show was every bit avant-garde and rock-n-roll that you would have anticipated, even giving a bit of a couture flare at certain moments of the show due to the exaggerated structure and sensational fabrics of the garments. However, before further discussing what could have been Hedi Slimane’s best work yet, it is essential to note the ambience and atmosphere of which the collection was showcased. Prior to the show, Slimane explained that the show would be presented with no music as explained in an all-caps tweet sent out by the Saint Laurent twitter page: “THERE WILL BE NO MUSIC FOR THIS PRESENTATION, SIMPLY THE SOUVENIR OF YVES’ TRADITION OF HAUTE COUTURE NUMBERING” in addition to implementing a no phone rule to the guests in attendance. Picture all of this taking place in the 18th century Rue de l’Université house as each model filed down the stairs while intense attention was placed on each outfit without the distraction of iPhones – or any noise for that matter. We can only praise Slimane and his traditional delivery as each outfit remained the focal point throughout the entire presentation. For the presentation itself, the famous YSL blue took the stage along with what we can only imagine was David Bowie inspired silhouettes and hair and make-up. If the rumours end up being true about Slimane’s potential departure, from the label, he without a doubt went out with a bang.  

Look 8 at Saint Laurent FW16

Dior

The Dior FW16 collection was possibly one of the most anticipated collections from the design house in a while due to the fact that it was the first show produced since Raf Simmons stepped down as creative director. All eyes were on Lucie Meier and Serge Ruffieux, or in other words the temporary designers, as they were given the ultimate test of making a seamless transition since Simmon’s exit. Suffice to say, the job was well done and the Dior name was lived up to. Although the number of evening gowns were limited –a typical staple of Dior collections – the clothes themselves were decidedly fresh and easy, seemingly more appropriate in terms of ready-to-wear, as sweaters, skirts, and vintage oxfords filled the runway. Fur-trimmed coats seemed to be a staple of the collection along with easy paisley printed and embellished cocktail dresses. In addition, the deep violet-ombre lipstick, slicked back hair, and round black sunglasses provided the perfect amount of edge for the otherwise feminine and classic collection. Who knows what next season will bring, but for the meantime a more laid back Dior was the perfect distraction until a new creative director is appointed.  

Look 29 at Dior FW16

Chloé

A label cherished by many, Chloé is one of those few designers that provides the perfect balance of the festival girl, the rocker girl, and the girly girl. Each outfit was topped off with a 70’s style neck-tie and the models sported natural looks, ultimately complementing the care-free and easy garments. Contradicting juxtaposition seemed to be the the recurring theme of the collection as prairie-girl skirts were paired with oversized zip-up knits and structured leather pieces were contrasted with feminine peasant tops. It is no wonder that that Chloé remains a favourite among consumers and celebrities alike as the label consistently sticks to its roots, offering something for every fashionista. And for those of you that missed out on the ever popular cape train, according to Chloé they are here to stay – preferably oversized and in a tribal print. All in all, Chloé consumers can rejoice from yet again another outstanding collection.

Look 13 at Chloé FW16

Balenciaga

From the tailoring to the styling to the venue to the off-beat selection of models, the Balenciaga FW16 show was on point and demonstrated a distinct vibe and attitude that challenged traditional silhouettes and garments. Not only did the collection offer something for any woman no matter their personal style or lifestyle, but it also challenged the way we look at conventional clothing that otherwise may seem outdated or mundane. Two piece flannel suits were presented with structure and character, dramatic ski jackets were tailored to fit off the shoulder and paired with bejewelled statement earrings and stilettos, and a fabulous array of coats served as the finale. Seemingly a consistent trend throughout this fashion week, the collection was produced by yet another new creative director, Demna Gvasalia. Although Paris Fashion Week typically boasts fashion at its highest form of luxury, it was refreshing to see a collection that truly catered to women and the idea of an ‘ideal wardrobe’. The majority of the pieces presented could easily be considered as staple pieces, ultimately leading us to question whether or not Gvasalia is supporting the latest debate among the fashion industry of whether or not clothes should be available to buy immediately proceeding a show. Regardless, Gvasalia stuck to his guns, carrying on ideas from his other label, Vetements, and without a doubt caught our attention with his organic approach to women’s fashion. 

Look 9 at Balenciaga FW16

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