Amidst the recent riots and social unrest, Paris Fashion Week showcased a different side of the city as it welcomed a captivating fusion of fashion and film. The second day of haute couture week saw the grandeur of unbridled luxury and conspicuous excess taking center stage, offering a respite from the wounds that the country is still healing from.
Chanel, known for its timeless elegance, put on a spectacular show along the picturesque Seine River, with the iconic Eiffel Tower as a backdrop. According to AFP, designer Virginie Viard used tweeds, silk muslins, organzas, and encrusted lace in her collection, which featured floral and graphic motifs. Bright colours like Barbie pink stood out against a predominantly grey palette. Models walked down the street holding small dogs or flower baskets, exuding sophistication and simplicity.
Meanwhile, couturier Stephane Rolland showcased a fabulously opulent collection at the Opera Garnier, a 19th-century opulence monument, while veteran filmmaker Claude Lelouch was filming for his upcoming film, “Finalement.” Rolland’s creations included a strapless velvet gown with a gleaming diamond hood, an elaborate headpiece resembling a swarm of gold flames, and a stunning long red satin gown with a bejewelled collar.
Homage To Maria Callas: Rolland’s Collection Captures Legendary Performance
The show paid homage to the legendary Greek singer Maria Callas, with her voice serenading the audience throughout the presentation. Rolland sought to recreate one of Callas’s most iconic performances at the Opera Garnier in December 1958, the report said. While known for his vibrant colour palette, Rolland opted for mostly black, white, and a few flashes of deep red to complement the grandeur of the Palais Garnier. Actors mingled with guests, as their presence served the dual purpose of enriching Lelouch’s film. Lelouch is best known for his Oscar-winning 1966 film, “A Man and a Woman,” it added.
Rolland expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to merge fashion with other art forms, stating that it is vital for the industry. He remarked, “It’s very important in our profession. I find that from time to time it lacks a bit of refinement. Money is not everything,” AFP reported. The collaboration with Lelouch was described as a “gift from heaven” by Rolland, emphasizing the significance of uniting various creative disciplines.
Alexis Mabille Redefines Tuxedo With Feminine Touch
Tuesday’s lineup also included French designer Alexis Mabille, who offered a feminine take on the classic tuxedo, and Giorgio Armani, who mesmerized the audience with sumptuous ballgowns adorned with intricate variations of poppies and roses. Red, a dominant colour in Armani’s collection, even made its way into the wedding dress, adding a touch of drama and romance.