Paris in June can be unforgiving, and the Hotel Normandy was no exception on June 18th, 2024. As I arrived at Valette Studio's menswear show, I was greeted by Hugo, a charming gentleman who seemed impervious to the heat in his shiny Courreges vegan leather jacket, the "it" item of the season as seen on various Parisian throughout the city in various occasions.
Read MoreUjoh's luxurious AW24 collection channels 80s nomadic elegance and was a stunning display of sartorial sophistication. AW24 drew inspiration from Bruce Weber's iconic "Men & Women" photography series from the 1980s. Designer Mitsuru Nishizaki masterfully translated the essence of that bygone era into a modern, luxurious wardrobe for the contemporary urban nomad.
Read MoreWhen asked about the mesmerizing motifs adorning her creations, Tolegen revealed that they were crafted in a historical style, yet generated through the innovative power of AI. The textiles she had chosen were nothing short of lavish, and upon closer inspection, the level of exquisite detail was truly awe inspiring.
Read MoreWhat this designer does so well is textiles. Nie actually teaches you how to appreciate textiles in this trilogy. Anybody can design a long sleeve maxi dress with a scoop neckline. The fabric that is used is the foundation of the design.
Read MoreI have been trying to get into the Marques show for years now. Technically, I still haven't gotten in but that's okay, there are other ways to see a collection. I was fortunate enough to be invited to the Paris showroom for Marques 'Almeida. I desperately wanted to see their AW24 collection. When I finally went through the collection, I was so glad that I did not see it on the runway first.
Read MoreArguably the sexiest collection I've seen this season, Atlein brought a lot confidence forward. AW24 is full of sporty pieces that translated so well into some workwear and lots of dramatic evening wear. The draping of the slinky looks were so masterfully done that it will probably look good on just about anybody.
Read MoreWhat sets Tenot's collection apart is the meticulous attention to detail and the profound thought that goes into each piece. Every garment is a labor of love, a testament to the designer's dedication to her craft.
Read MoreTo the average person this fashion show would have seemed more like an art exhibition. Which it was, truly. But to a fashion designer you can sense the massive undertaking of these creations. In order for them fit and move with the body, they have to be masterfully executed.
Read MoreIt is apparent that Ariane Theunissen now knows exactly who she is as a young designer. My companion noted that this collection felt "very LA". Perhaps it's just a matter of time before the entertainers and celebs get their hands on it.
Read MoreAfter the wonderful showroom visit, I walked down to the Rue Saint-Honoré. At the corner of Chanel and Dior, I couldn't help but think that ArdAzAei's collection is way too precious for mass-market companies like these. Her designs truly shine above the rest, embodying a level of artistry and attention to detail that sets her apart in the industry.
Read MoreThe show starts off with a string quartet and experimental sounds were being played on violins. Initially it sounded like insects, but then it started to get a little creepy feeling. By the time the vocals came in I was properly a little freaked out. It sounded like a soundtrack to a horror movie. It was extremely eerie and intense. The vocals were more intense as a show went on and it really begged the question, what am I missing here? The clothing itself doesn't seem spooky or horror themed ...what will I see upon a closer look?
Read MoreAfter speculating for about 2 minutes they pulled back the curtains and there she was. It was Joanna Lumley in all of her glory and she began performing the "Confessions of Lilith" by Fatima Farheen Mirza. I have never before in my life wanted to cry from seeing somebody that I was such a big fan of, but Joanna Lumley did it for me.
Read MoreIn this multi-cultured exploration, Edward Crutchley took influences from Greek mythology, ancient Egyptian textiles and Moroccan wall hangings. He had paired these influences with traditional English tailoring and the Tudor way of dress. The large shoulders, the empowered monarch, wearing more to "take up space" was fashionable for that time.
Read MoreAW24 is the first season that a faint little heartbeat has started to be heard from London Fashion Week. Although it is true that many of the marquee designers are still missing from the calendar, I can confidently say that there are so many small independent gems left to be discovered. One such label is Noon by Noor.
Read MoreThankfully I was sent a show package and I opened it up with as much excitement and anticipation as I had for attending the show itself. I've been following Ujoh for a few seasons now and this designer has always gotten it right. Just the right amount of intricacy and the end result is magic. Although I cannot deem the missing of the show as one of my magical moments I can say that this AW23 collection is a magical collection.
Read MoreThe Franco-Belgian brand established in 2019 and created by Ariane Theunissen stays faithful to the creator's love of the '70s and its icons. This season, the collection is inspired by the empowerment of women with silhouettes that emphasize the structure of the shoulders tapering into a small waist to create strong and dramatic looks, encouraging the idea of the powerful woman.
Read MoreA hand delivered by messenger, sleek glossy black bag with a cut-out handle arrived for me. Inside was an invitation in a black square box containing a black rose. Calvin Luo sure knows how to treat a lady. Being invited to a show in this way is my magical moment number 8.
Read MoreSituated on the famed Avenue Montaigne, the Ungaro showroom was nestled on the second floor of a beautifully traditional Parisian building. The stylish showroom featured large doors with hidden entryways and a traditional fashion salon that has been updated through the decades. A full spread of desserts and canapes and free-flowing coffee was warmly awaiting visitors. Upon arrival the staff was beautifully accommodating and so welcoming, this visit was my magic moment number 7.
Read MoreAfter about 20 minutes when everybody has settled in the blue lights started to fade away and we can see each other in our true presentations once again. Beautifully dressed attendees, socialites and starlets. Industry professionals with their cameras and phones ready. The first model in a long fringed blue capelet shredded through the sculpture and into the room.
Read MoreSimplistic draped pieces came down the runway one by one in neutrals with a pop of red. The Autumn Winter ‘23 collection draws inspiration from soil as a conceptual metaphor. It traces back to the original purpose of clothing and investigating the fundamental nature of its existence.
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