See the best collections here.

The Paris couture shows have long been the epitome of high fashion, showcasing the pinnacle of creativity and artistry. This season, the shows infused a renewed energy into fashion’s oldest artistic platform. Designers masterfully balanced tradition with innovation, presenting fresh interpretations of classic couture elements such as embroidery and sculptural draping. Moreover, many collections incorporated influences from sportswear and streetwear, paying homage to the upcoming Olympic Games set to commence in Paris on July 26th. Each collection offered something distinctive, from the athletic inspirations at Dior to the subcultural nods at Balenciaga. This blend of tradition and modernity resulted in a dynamic and exciting showcase, reaffirming couture as the ultimate expression of fashion artistry.

At Dior, Maria Grazia Chiuri expertly melded classic and contemporary styles with Grecian jersey dresses and embroidered bodysuits celebrating the athletic form. Demna at Balenciaga reimagined streetwear essentials like hoodies, t-shirts, tracksuits, and denim, infusing them with a couture sensibility. Giorgio Armani, on the eve of his 90th birthday, presented a pearl-themed collection epitomizing elegance through exquisite tailoring and velvet creations. Daniel Roseberry’s collection for Schiaparelli, titled “The Phoenix,” featured stunning wing-shaped shoulders adorned with 3-D chrome embroidery, exemplifying feats of construction with muslin draping and layering. Nicolas Di Felice, as the guest designer for Jean Paul Gaultier, brought his vision to life with a sharp, minimalistic take on Gaultier’s signature style. Meanwhile, Chanel’s interim in-house team, following Virginie Viard’s departure, showcased dramatic taffeta capes and hair bows, capturing the essence of classic Chanel.

Let’s delve deeper into the standout collections from the top seven shows of the week.

SCHIAPARELLI

Daniel Roseberry’s collection for Schiaparelli paid homage to the brand’s founder, Elsa Schiaparelli, with a series of pieces that were both dramatic and intricate. Velvet, feathers, and organza spikes were used to create body-hugging bustiers that were nothing short of breathtaking. The collection titled “The Phoenix” symbolized rebirth and transformation, themes that were masterfully translated into each garment. The opening look, with its wing-shaped shoulders and 3-D chrome embroidery, set the tone for a collection that was both innovative and true to the house’s storied heritage.

ARMANI PRIVÉ

Giorgio Armani’s pearl-themed collection was a celebration of elegance and sophistication. Featuring a beautiful lineup of evening suits and embroidered dresses, the collection was a masterclass in tailoring and craftsmanship. The use of pearls added a touch of opulence to each piece, creating a sense of timeless beauty. On the eve of his 90th birthday, Armani proved once again why he is considered one of the greatest designers of our time, with a collection that was both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.

THOM BROWNE

Thom Browne’s collection was a study in construction and form. Using muslin fabric, typically reserved for the initial stages of garment creation, Browne crafted a series of pieces that were both architectural and fluid. The collection featured draped and layered looks that showcased Browne’s innovative approach to design. Each piece was meticulously constructed, highlighting the designer’s skill in creating garments that are both avant-garde and wearable.

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER

Guest designer Nicolas Di Felice presented a sharp, minimalistic interpretation of Jean Paul Gaultier’s signature style. The collection featured sexy, body-conscious dresses, coats, and long skirts that were both bold and elegant. Di Felice’s vision brought a fresh perspective to the iconic brand, creating a series of looks that were modern yet true to Gaultier’s legacy. The collection was a perfect blend of innovation and tradition, showcasing the timeless appeal of Gaultier’s designs.

BALENCIAGA

Demna’s vision for Balenciaga’s 53rd couture collection was a tribute to both subcultural dress codes and the design legacy of Cristobal Balenciaga. The collection featured oversized hoodies, t-shirts, tracksuits, and denim, all reimagined with couture techniques. This juxtaposition of high and low fashion was a nod to contemporary streetwear while remaining rooted in the house’s elegant and architectural tradition. Each piece was meticulously crafted, showcasing Demna’s ability to merge the avant-garde with the classic.

CHANEL

Presented at the iconic Palais Garnier, Chanel’s Fall 2024 Couture collection was a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy. The interim in-house team presented a series of rich tweeds, beautiful embroideries, and dramatic taffeta capes. Each piece was a tribute to the timeless elegance of Chanel, with intricate details that highlighted the craftsmanship and attention to detail that the brand is known for. The collection seamlessly blended the classic with the contemporary, creating a series of looks that were both sophisticated and modern.

DIOR

Maria Grazia Chiuri’s collection for Dior was a celebration of the human form and athleticism. With the Olympic Games set to take place in Paris, Chiuri drew inspiration from athletes, creating silhouettes that highlighted the beauty and strength of the human body. Grecian jersey dresses and embroidered bodysuits were the highlights of the collection, each piece exuding grace and power. The collection was a perfect blend of classical references and modern aesthetics, showcasing Chiuri’s ability to create timeless yet contemporary pieces.