Paris Fashion Week is well underway, and the eighth day of the women’s ready-to-wear shows brought forth two distinct trends. Stella McCartney and Sacai put forward everyday and energetic styles, while Zimmermann and Dundas opted for a more romantic influence.
Stella McCartney, known for her dedication to sustainability, drew inspiration from the equestrian world. The runway show commenced with designs crafted from tweeds and large check tartans. Waistcoats were cleverly fashioned into tops, and pea coats were paired with thigh-high boots for a daring touch. McCartney incorporated rearing horse prints onto various garments, including jumpers, dresses, and T-shirts, showcasing her affinity for animals. The collection also featured fur-lined coats and jackets that resembled the speckled coat of a white horse. A strong commitment to preserving the planet shone through in McCartney’s use of alternative materials, such as leather substitutes made from mushrooms, apples, and grapes.
Sacai, known for its innovative cuts and designs, put a modern twist on classics. The collection included long coats, skirts, and maxi dresses crafted from typical men’s fabrics like black wool sheets, banker’s cloth, and grey flannel. Designer Chitose Abe masterfully layered and folded these fabrics, resulting in mesmerizing mille-feuille effects. Pleats, slits, and external straps added visual interest to the garments, while fine white thread stitched onto pleated skirts and jackets mimicked chalk markings on a garment in progress, showcasing Abe’s meticulous attention to detail.
Peter Dundas made a highly anticipated return to the Parisian catwalks after a hiatus since July 2019. Drawing inspiration from his Norwegian origins and childhood memories of the Atlantic Ocean, Dundas presented a collection with a nautical theme. The show took place beneath the grand ornate ceiling panels of the Opéra Garnier, serving as a majestic backdrop for his long-distance captain-inspired creations. Models sported caps, heavy woolen capes, and pea coats, emanating a maritime vibe. Ribbed jumpers, classic sailor trousers, and Dundas’ signature mini-dresses in various fabrics and prints completed the collection.
Australian fashion house Zimmermann showcased a collection that beautifully bridged the past and the present. The show took place at the Petit Palais, with its baroque-style architecture aligning perfectly with the romantic aesthetic of the garments. Period dresses crafted from embossed lace, devoured lace fabric, and guipure took center stage, exuding a sense of timeless elegance. Designer Nicky Zimmermann’s fondness for lace was ever-present, adorning tunics, blouse sleeves, and tulle dresses throughout the collection. Prints inspired by Renaissance and Impressionist paintings added to the overall period style. Frilly dresses with ruffles, jackets, and bathrobes completed the wardrobe for special occasions. Zimmermann also added a modern twist to the collection with pieces like leather pilot suits and double denim jackets.
The eighth day of Paris Fashion Week brought forth a diverse range of styles, showcasing both everyday energy and romanticism. Each designer presented their unique interpretations, paying close attention to detail, which set their collections apart. With a focus on sustainability, innovative cuts, and a harmonious blend of past and present aesthetics, these designers continue to push boundaries within the fashion industry.
Useful links:
Stella McCartney’s fabric technology
About Zimmermann
