From soul-searching to spectacular, there was something for everyone
Thursday's proceedings at Paris Fashion included labels such as Coperny, Anne Isabella, Gauchere, Paul Smith, Chloe, Minuit, Uma Wang, Ludovic de Saint Cernan, Lecavalier, Rick Owens, Heliot Emil and Isabel Marant. However, there were two noticeable issues that were highlighted during the day: the environment and Ukraine.
Chloe showcased the spectacular Fall/Winter 2022 range in attractive colours. The brand's shows represented black wildfire in vibrant orange and red hues to highlight the issue. According to Chloe, its Sunrise Degrade Flared Ankle Length crew neck dress, scarf and shoes are made from recycled materials and therefore have a low impact on the environment.
In contrast, however, the runway too had a completely monochromatic look. For example, Chloe's raw hem wrap coat; tank top in low-impact superfine merino knit with signature scallop detailing; straight midi skirt with corset; were very elegant. These were a bicolor nacha top handle bag with belt details in yellow and brown and punctuated by Nelly Boots.
Paris-based American designer Rick Owens meanwhile kept the eye-catching look he's known for. From jackets with torn corners to distressed-looking gloves to clothing crafted from pieces of stray fabric—eccentricity was the name of the game.
On a more gloomy note, Owen commented on Ukraine in his show notes: "[I] have always found great comfort that in the history of the world good has always managed to triumph over evil in some way or another. In times of heartbreak Well, beauty can be one of the ways to maintain confidence."
Then, there was Isabel Marant. The brand's show was celebratory and glamorous to say the least. The collection and ambiance were a clear nod to the '80s with luxurious tops and thigh-length boots being the order of the day.
On a different note, the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, organizers of Paris Fashion Week, said yesterday: "[It] is committed to providing assistance to the Ukrainian people in the midst of this humanitarian crisis. Its members later UNHCR, Will donate through the United Nations Refugee Agency…”