The fall 2024 shows at Paris Fashion Week offered a glimpse into the past and future of style. Leatherwork and historical nods met minimalism and modern aesthetics across memorable collections.
Nadege Vanhee-Cybulski continued her exploration of “quiet luxury” at the Hermes show Saturday evening. Yet this time, a darker mood permeated. Black leathers evoked a brooding mood, like the hues of a Soulages painting. Armor-inspired accents added edge, balanced by the soft tailoring. This embodied the house’s timeless approach: let opulent materials shine without ostentation.
Andreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood channeled medieval serfs with a punk twist. Tear-shaped knits and codpiece-esque leggings referenced the past, while zipper-adorned corsets and large-shouldered tops nodded to Westwood’s signature 1980s punk era. A knight’s breastplate shimmered under disco lights, blending eras with eccentric flair.
At Carven, designer Louise Trotter offered her sophomore collection, steering the storied French house in a new direction. An oversized coat made a statement, ushering in a minimalist 90s aesthetic. A clever trompe l’oeil dress played with dimensions. Subtle sensuality shone through in an effortless gray jacket exposing skin. Trotter is the first female creative director since Carven’s revival, evolving its legacy with her vision.
Paris Fashion Week continued to showcase the timeless art of fashion as both a craft and cultural mirror. The collections told stories across eras, blurring lines between past and present with clever details.
