As a result of the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions on public gatherings, Paris has made the decision to cancel all live runway shows for the menswear and haute couture seasons scheduled for January. This announcement came after discussions between the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode and the Préfecture de Police in Paris. French Prime Minister Jean Castex emphasized the need for continued restrictions in the country, leading to the closure of various establishments such as restaurants, cinemas, and ski resorts since December.
Despite the cancellation of live events, the Fédération remains hopeful for the upcoming fashion weeks. Pascal Morand, the executive president, mentioned that shows will primarily be held online, and many fashion houses are still considering the best format for their presentations. While physical gatherings may be restricted, fashion maisons can still arrange professional rendezvous and closed-door presentations to ensure the safety of all participants.
Paris Fashion Week had already unveiled detailed schedules for the menswear and haute couture seasons, highlighting the eagerness of numerous houses to unveil their collections. The menswear season is expected to run from January 19 to January 24, followed by the haute couture season from January 25 to January 28. The lineup features renowned designers and brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior Homme, Chanel, and Armani Privé.
In light of the recent developments, houses like Hermès and Christian Dior have made adjustments to accommodate the restrictions. Hermès announced that they will not be hosting any physical fashion shows in Paris this month, opting instead for a video presentation. Christian Dior also acknowledged the situation and plans to showcase their collections through digital fashion shows.
Health experts in France are cautioning about a potential increase in Covid-19 infections following the holiday season due to extensive family travel. The Fédération is collaborating closely with the Préfecture to ensure public safety during the upcoming seasons. With the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, France continues to report high daily numbers of Covid-19 cases, prompting the government to extend the nightly curfew and impose additional restrictions.
Following the January fashion weeks, the women’s ready-to-wear fashion week is slated to occur from March 1 to 9. The fashion industry is adapting to the challenges brought about by the pandemic by exploring innovative ways to exhibit collections and engage with audiences in the digital realm.
For more information on the latest updates regarding Paris Fashion Week, you can visit Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode. Stay informed about the Covid-19 situation in France from official sources like French Government’s Covid-19 Updates.
