The Hyères International Festival of Fashion, Accessories, and Photography commenced on Thursday with a lively and festive ambiance at the historic Villa Noailles. Despite the gloomy weather, the public eagerly gathered outside the modernist villa, anticipating the exciting events to come. It is worth mentioning that the Villa Noailles will celebrate its centenary in 2023, adding an extra layer of significance to the festival.
A notable addition to this year’s festival was a massive inflatable doll, donning nothing but a pair of jeans, perched on one of the villa’s terraces. This playful and provocative emblem was brought in from Milan by Glenn Martens, the creative director of Diesel and the chair of the fashion competition’s esteemed jury.
During the opening ceremony, Aska Yamashita and Pierre Debusschere, the presidents of the accessory and photography jury respectively, joined Martens on stage. Distinguished figures such as the mayor of Hyères, Jean-Pierre Giran, Pascal Morand, the executive president of the French Fashion and Haute Couture Federation, and Bruno Pavlovsky, the president of the Federation and Chanel’s fashion division, also graced the event. Notably, Chanel serves as the main sponsor of the festival, highlighting its significance in the industry.
Jean-Pierre Blanc, the visionary founder of the festival, expressed his excitement for this year’s edition, marking its impressive 37th anniversary. After two years of limited activities due to the pandemic, Blanc was thrilled to witness the forecourt teeming with artists, friends, and partners. He emphasized the festival’s core mission of supporting and promoting young designers while emphasizing the convivial spirit that has been ingrained in the event since its inception.
The opening ceremony was further enriched by captivating performances from acclaimed singer Axelle Red, who mesmerized the audience with her soulful songs. The festivities are set to continue until Sunday, October 16, with a diverse program that includes exhibitions, shows, master classes, and fashion meetings orchestrated by the French Fashion and Haute Couture Federation. The designer competition, a centerpiece of the festival, aims to spotlight emerging talents.
The Hyères International Festival of Fashion, Accessories, and Photography holds a special place in the fashion industry, captivating industry professionals and enthusiasts for over three decades. Its rich history is anchored in the visionary patronage of Charles and Marie-Laure de Noailles, who constructed the Villa Noailles a century ago. Their legacy of non-conformity and embrace of innovation continues to inspire the festival and its participants.
As the festival unfolded with enthusiasm and applause, Pascale Mussard, the festival’s president, underscored the significance of dreams and officially declared the 37th edition open. The festival seeks to create a space where attendees can indulge in dreams and find inspiration. It serves as a grand celebration of creativity, youth, and new discoveries in the realm of fashion.
With its vibrant atmosphere and captivating program, the Hyères International Festival of Fashion, Accessories, and Photography promises to be a remarkable event, showcasing the talent and vision of emerging designers and artists from around the globe. As the oldest emerging designer competition, the festival remains steadfast in its mission to nurture and elevate young talent within the industry. Year after year, the festival continues to shape the future of fashion and ignite the imagination of its attendees.
Links:
1. Villa Noailles Official Website
2. French Fashion and Haute Couture Federation Website
