Saint Laurent made a grand entrance back into the world of high fashion at Paris Fashion Week, wowing the audience with a show that was nothing short of extraordinary. Taking place at the iconic Trocadéro esplanade, which was the same location where the brand last presented its runway almost two years ago, the show was a stunning display of opulence and luxury.
The catwalk was adorned with an enormous metal structure and illuminated by spotlights, creating a dramatic setting for the models to showcase the Spring/Summer 2022 collection. The first look to grace the runway was a breathtaking white dress with a high slit, worn by a model exuding confidence with bold red lips, black sunglasses, and striking gold jewelry. This opening look set the tone for the rest of the show, which was characterized by impeccable class, radical freedom, and a touch of theater.
Throughout the collection, the Saint Laurent woman was portrayed as someone with natural elegance and a disregard for convention. A black suit jacket featuring three large golden buttons exuded power and sophistication, while a red dress with a plunging neckline and a front slit oozed sensuality. The models confidently tucked their purses into their jeans, showcasing an effortless and nonchalant style.
The Saint Laurent woman’s ability to accessorize and use colors tastefully was evident in every look of the collection. Small details, such as a large red flower on a skintight bodysuit or a yellow scarf with black spots, added a touch of uniqueness and elevated the overall aesthetic. The collection masterfully walked the fine line between restraint and extravagance, creating a true sense of balance and harmony.
Creative director Anthony Vaccarello found inspiration in Paloma Picasso, a close friend and collaborator of Yves Saint Laurent in the 1970s. Vaccarello wanted to pay homage to the significant encounter between Picasso and Saint Laurent, recognizing its role in the couturier’s creative development. The result was a contemporary wardrobe that embraced eccentricity and originality while meeting the demands and desires of today’s women.
One of the standout moments of the show was the presentation of Lycra catsuits in various shades and vibrant prints. These catsuits took different forms, featuring draped or split tops, and even transforming into bustiers that exposed the models’ shoulders. Vaccarello paired these bold and daring catsuits with oversized masculine jackets, giving a modern twist to traditional tailoring. The juxtaposition of a Prince of Wales jacket with skintight leggings created a striking contrast that was both unexpected and captivating. To round out the collection, more conventional cotton jumpsuits were also included, providing a diverse range of options for the modern woman.
Overall, Saint Laurent’s Spring/Summer 2022 collection was a celebration of elegance, freedom, and theatricality. Vaccarello’s tribute to Paloma Picasso brought a fresh perspective to the brand and showcased a contemporary wardrobe that encapsulated the essence of Saint Laurent. The collection marked a triumphant return to Paris Fashion Week for Saint Laurent, leaving a lasting impression on the audience with its awe-inspiring designs.
Useful links:
– Saint Laurent Official Website
– Saint Laurent on Vogue
