Accessories took the spotlight at Paris Fashion Week as several brands unveiled their Fall/Winter 2023 collections through intimate presentations. Amidst the bustling runways, FashionNetwork.com had the privilege of exploring some of the top accessory brands in the industry. Here’s a breakdown of what captured our attention.
Renowned shoe designer Bruno Frisoni presented his third collection since relaunching his brand. He showcased iconic styles like the ‘Pumpette’ with a contemporary twist. Frisoni reimagined pump and boot styles using trendy materials such as tan shearling and upcycled denim jackets. Sustainability was also a key focus as he repurposed existing materials, resulting in a charming patent leather style with snaps to hold satin bear heads in various configurations. Additionally, his pillow bow sandal featured a down-jacket effect ribbon, while a draped satin shoe evolved from last season’s Crash sandal. Frisoni emphasized the intimate nature of his collection and expressed his preference for working with select stores that he personally knows.
Pierre Hardy drew inspiration from his favorite muses for his Fall/Winter 2023 collection, focusing on Left bank Parisian elegance. Standout pieces included the Stella pump and bootie, featuring a mini kitten heel reminiscent of 90s supermodels and Lady Miss Kier from Deee-Lite. Hardy also paid homage to Robert Mapplethorpe model and female bodybuilder Lisa Lyon with the sporty Scuba sandal, designed with cutouts and indentations that reflected her chiseled physique. Another highlight was the Sean platform, inspired by actress Sean Young’s character in Blade Runner, combining a 40s-inspired futuristic suit with a modern twist.
Hugo Kreit presented his French queer jewelry brand during his first Paris Fashion Week. The “Blooms” collection featured elevated hand-painted acrylic designs, drawing inspiration from industrial and organic elements like thorns, pistols, and buds. Kreit’s electroformed hollow hoops and ear cuff sets made a splash, adding a touch of creativity to his costume jewelry line. With collaborations with renowned brands like Saint Laurent and Dior, as well as the support of retailers such as SSENSE and H.Lorenzo, Kreit’s brand is set for success.
Published By, founded by Christoph Tsetinis and Ruby Wallen, offers a unique range of hard case chrome handbags that have garnered attention from celebrities like Beyoncé and Dua Lipa. Combining traditional leather goods design with automotive innovation, Published By introduced the Stone Cloud bag this season, inspired by the rocky shores and crystal blue waters of Greece. The bag features chrome ‘pebbles’ backed in leather, creating a stunning shoulder bag.
Hunting Season founders Danielle Corona and Lena Baranovsky showcased their handcrafted bags at the enchanting Zen Ogata Japanese restaurant and tea house, marking their return to Paris since the pandemic. Their collection, made in Spain and utilizing Colombian artisans’ woven straw, highlighted the brand’s signature leather and straw bags. The brand also introduced home accessories made from molded leather, while evening clutch styles in velvet added a touch of vintage glamour. Despite their accessible price range, these bags exuded luxury and elegance, making them a valuable addition to any wardrobe.
Nomasei, an indie sustainable shoe brand founded by Paule Tenaillon and Marine Braquet, celebrated their collaboration with influential stylist Julia von Boehm during Paris Fashion Week. The collaboration resulted in a loafer style inspired by von Boehm’s styling of Nicole Kidman. Held at the Italian bio restaurant Crudus, the event showcased five color block or crystalized shoe styles made from LWG-certified leather scraps from other fashion houses. Guests had the opportunity to try on the shoes, which were accompanied by coordinating Egyptian cotton socks.
Camperlab, designed by Achilles Ion Gabriel, continues to prioritize sustainability in their directional shoe collection. The brand focuses on developing zero-waste and minimal ingredient shoes. Noteworthy styles include the Tormenta sneaker, which embodies the essence of a storm through its wave-like design, and the Tossu knit sock sneaker, created without the use of glue through injection bonding. The Venga, a cowboy-style boot with a funky edge, appeals to both ranch hands and rock stars.
Paris Fashion Week showcased the significant impact accessories can have on the industry. From innovative shoe designs to artistic jewelry and unique handbags, these brands demonstrated their creativity and commitment to sustainability. As the fashion world continues to evolve, accessories are solidifying their position as essential elements in every fashionista’s wardrobe.
Useful links:
1. Paris Fashion Week Accessories Standouts
2. Top Accessory Brands at Paris Fashion Week
