Paris Couture Week is set to make a grand comeback this July, signaling a major milestone for the fashion industry since the global lockdown last year. This highly anticipated event will feature eight live runway shows, the largest number of shows seen at an important fashion week since the pandemic hit. A total of 34 fall/winter 2021-2022 collections from 33 fashion houses will be showcased during the week, including renowned designers like Christian Dior, Chanel, Balenciaga, and Jean Paul Gaultier.
One of the most exciting highlights of the event is Balenciaga’s return to the couture catwalks after more than 50 years. The brand’s creative director, Demna Gvasalia, plans to unveil Balenciaga’s first-ever couture collection at the iconic house’s historic home on Avenue George V. This is a momentous occasion for Balenciaga and the fashion industry, as it marks an important comeback for the brand since its closure in 1968.
Another highly anticipated show is Pyer Moss Couture by Kerby Jean-Raymond, making him the first Black American couturier to be featured on the official schedule of Paris couture. This groundbreaking moment not only celebrates Jean-Raymond’s talent but also represents a significant step forward for diversity and representation in the fashion industry.
In addition to the live runway shows, several fashion houses will release digital collection videos on various platforms like their websites, social media channels, and the Federation de la Haute Couture et de la Mode’s platform. This adaptation to the digital age allows designers to reach a wider audience and showcase their collections in innovative ways.
The event is a clear indication of progress and recovery for the fashion industry as France continues to ease its lockdown restrictions. With the reopening of boutiques and an extended curfew, Paris is slowly regaining its vibrant and bustling atmosphere. Paris Couture Week is expected to bring a renewed sense of excitement and energy to the city, serving as a catalyst for the industry’s revival.
Moreover, Paris Couture Week provides a platform for emerging designers to exhibit their talent. Designers like Charles de Vilmorin, the newly appointed designer of Rochas, and Vaishali S, a rising star in Indian couture, are anticipated to make a splash during the event, captivating the industry’s attention with their unique visions.
Additionally, the international presence of designers at Paris Couture Week underscores the global allure of the event. While many of the fashion houses are founded by French designers, there are also Paris-based houses launched by non-French couturiers, and designers from countries outside of France, with Italy and Giorgio Armani leading the pack. Armani, who had to cancel his live show in Milan last year due to Covid concerns, is making a comeback with two menswear shows at Milano Moda Uomo in June and a couture gala show in July at the Italian Embassy.
Paris Couture Week is a momentous occasion that showcases the epitome of high fashion and craftsmanship. The return of live runway shows signifies a hopeful and optimistic future for the fashion industry as it embraces the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital era. With a perfect blend of well-established and emerging designers, the event is certain to captivate fashion enthusiasts worldwide and reaffirm Paris as the epicenter of haute couture.
Useful Links:
1. Vogue – Paris Couture Week Fall 2021 Shows
2. Fashion Week Online – Paris Fashion Week
