Designers

Margherita Missoni has launched a private, invitation-only pop-up event during Paris Couture Week, offering a personal retail experience for her Maccapani collection. The exclusive event is hosted at the apartment of her grandmother, Rosita Missoni, blending fashion with a more intimate, domestic setting. This approach deviates from traditional retail models, aiming to foster a direct connection with potential clients and enthusiasts. The Maccapani collection, which is the focus of this private showcase, represents a specific line within Missoni's broader fashion endeavors. By choosing to present it in a private residence rather than a conventional boutique or showroom, Missoni is emphasizing a curated and bespoke approach to luxury retail. Guests are invited to not only view and purchase items from the collection but also to engage in a more relaxed atmosphere, with refreshments provided, creating a social and sensory experience. This initiative highlights a growing trend in the luxury market towards personalized and experiential retail. Brands are increasingly seeking ways to differentiate themselves beyond the product itself, offering unique moments and exclusive access to their clientele. Margherita Missoni's pop-up exemplifies this strategy, leveraging her family's heritage and personal space to create a memorable and intimate brand encounter. The event is scheduled to run for a limited duration during Couture Week, underscoring its exclusive nature.

Jean Paul Gaultier's Fall 2026 Couture collection, designed by Duran Lantink, unveiled a "Space Invader" theme, drawing inspiration from historical figures and avant-garde aesthetics. The collection's debut featured striking silhouettes and innovative designs that aimed to command attention, reminiscent of Queen Marie Antoinette's penchant for grand ballgowns. Lantink's approach to the collection blended historical grandeur with futuristic elements, creating a narrative that juxtaposed opulence with a bold, otherworldly vision. The designs incorporated exaggerated volumes and unexpected material combinations, pushing the boundaries of traditional haute couture. This collection marks a significant moment for Lantink as he steps into the role of creative director for the esteemed fashion house. The "Space Invader" theme allowed for a diverse range of interpretations, from structured, architectural forms to more fluid, ethereal pieces. Each garment appeared to tell a story, reflecting a journey through different realms of imagination and style. The collection's presentation emphasized the theatricality inherent in haute couture, highlighting the craftsmanship and artistic vision behind each creation. This collection continues Jean Paul Gaultier's legacy of pushing creative limits and challenging conventional fashion norms. Lantink's interpretation aims to resonate with a contemporary audience while honoring the brand's rich heritage. The focus on commanding attention through design suggests a deliberate strategy to make a memorable impact on the fashion landscape.

Rubber has emerged as a prominent material in the Fall 2026 couture collections, signaling a potential shift in high fashion's material palette. Designers are exploring the versatility and aesthetic possibilities of rubber, integrating it into garments in innovative ways. This trend was notably observed across several high-profile shows, indicating a broader industry interest in the material. The Fall 2026 couture season saw rubber featured in designs by established houses and emerging talents alike. Schiaparelli, known for its avant-garde approach, incorporated rubber into its latest offerings, pushing the boundaries of traditional couture fabrics. Similarly, Jean Paul Gaultier, a designer celebrated for his provocative and experimental designs, utilized rubber, demonstrating its adaptability to complex silhouettes and artistic expressions. Adding to this trend, Robert Wun, a designer who has garnered significant attention for his unique aesthetic, also presented rubber prominently in his Fall 2026 couture collection. The inclusion of rubber by these diverse designers suggests that the material is being viewed not merely as an accent or novelty, but as a foundational element for creating sophisticated and avant-garde couture pieces. This widespread adoption points to rubber's growing acceptance within the luxury fashion sphere.

Melissa Skoog, who has served as Cartolina's creative director for one year, has offered insights into the brand's upcoming fall 2026 collection. Skoog's tenure marks a period of creative direction for the brand, with the fall collection representing a significant output under her leadership. The discussion centers on the creative process and thematic elements that will define Cartolina's offerings for the autumn season of 2026. Skoog's perspective provides a look into the brand's evolving aesthetic and strategic direction. Her first year has been dedicated to understanding and shaping the brand's identity, culminating in the development of this new collection. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities inherent in leading a fashion brand's creative vision, particularly as it prepares to launch a new seasonal line. The fall 2026 collection is poised to showcase Skoog's artistic direction, aiming to resonate with Cartolina's target audience. Details regarding specific inspirations, materials, or silhouettes are expected to be revealed as the launch approaches. This collection signifies a key moment for both Skoog and Cartolina, underscoring the brand's commitment to innovation and style within the competitive fashion landscape.

Jean Paul Gaultier's Fall 2026 Couture collection, under the creative direction of Haider Ackermann, debuted this week, showcasing a bold and avant-garde interpretation of classic couture. The collection featured striking silhouettes that played with volume and proportion, including exaggerated shoulders and voluminous skirts. Ackermann's signature draping techniques were evident throughout, lending a fluid yet structured quality to the garments. A notable element was the innovative use of materials, blending traditional luxury fabrics with unexpected textures and finishes. Key pieces included sharply tailored jackets with architectural details, flowing gowns adorned with intricate embellishments, and avant-garde headwear that complemented the dramatic ensembles. The color palette ranged from deep jewel tones to monochromatic schemes, punctuated by metallic accents and rich embroidery. The show emphasized a modern take on historical references, reinterpreting iconic Gaultier motifs with a fresh perspective. Haider Ackermann, who took the helm as creative director in 2023, continues to infuse the house with his distinct aesthetic, balancing respect for the brand's heritage with a forward-looking vision. This collection reinforces Jean Paul Gaultier's position as a significant player in the haute couture landscape, known for its boundary-pushing designs and exceptional craftsmanship.

Pierpaolo Piccioli presented his inaugural haute couture collection for Balenciaga this week, marking a significant moment for the Kering-owned fashion house. The debut drew a notable audience of fashion industry figures and celebrities, eager to witness Piccioli's vision for the iconic brand. Among the prominent attendees and commentators were stylist Law Roach and writer Chloe Malle. Renowned fashion critic Suzy Menkes also shared her initial impressions of the collection. Their reactions, alongside those of other industry insiders, provide a first glimpse into the reception of Piccioli's work at Balenciaga. The collection's unveiling is a key event in the haute couture calendar, with expectations high for Piccioli, who previously helmed Valentino for 16 years. His tenure at Valentino was characterized by a distinct aesthetic that garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. The transition to Balenciaga, a house with a different historical and design lineage, presents a new creative challenge. Balenciaga, under Kering's ownership, has seen various creative directors shape its identity. Piccioli's appointment follows a period of intense scrutiny and evolution for the brand. The fashion world is now closely observing how his signature style will translate to Balenciaga's couture atelier and its established codes.

Viktor & Rolf presented their Fall 2026 Couture collection, a thematic exploration of spectacle versus substance. The Dutch design duo, known for their avant-garde approach, showcased garments that played with perception and materiality. The collection featured mirrored silhouettes, reflecting both the audience and the garments themselves, creating a meta-commentary on the nature of fashion presentation and consumption. These striking mirrored pieces were juxtaposed with more grounded materials, notably modest burlap. This contrast aimed to question the value placed on surface-level glamour versus inherent quality and craftsmanship. The use of gilded materials in some of the mirrored elements further emphasized the theme of outward appearance, while the burlap offered a tactile and humble counterpoint. The collection's presentation itself likely amplified these themes, encouraging viewers to consider the layers of meaning within the designs. The collection's title, "Dressing With Herself," suggests an introspective element, perhaps hinting at the designer's relationship with their own creations or the wearer's internal experience. This personal reflection, combined with the outward-facing commentary on fashion's performative aspects, created a complex and thought-provoking display. The designs aimed to provoke a dialogue about what constitutes true value in the realm of high fashion.

Zendaya captivated audiences at the Paris premiere of her film "The Odyssey" on Wednesday, stepping out in an ethereal Louis Vuitton creation. The actress, who stars alongside other cast members in the highly anticipated film, chose a gown that seemed to draw inspiration from classical mythology, featuring flowing drapery and intricate detailing. The ensemble, designed by Louis Vuitton, showcased a masterful blend of marble-like textures and a mythical aesthetic. The dress's silhouette was both timeless and contemporary, highlighting Zendaya's statuesque figure while evoking the grandeur of ancient art. This appearance marks a significant moment in fashion and film, with Zendaya continuing to solidify her status as a style icon. "The Odyssey" premiere in Paris provided a grand stage for Zendaya to showcase her sartorial choices. The actress has a well-established relationship with Louis Vuitton, frequently appearing in their designs for major events. This particular gown, however, stood out for its unique artistic vision and its seamless integration with the thematic elements of her new film, which is expected to explore epic narratives. Her presence at the premiere underscored the synergy between high fashion and cinematic storytelling. The choice of Louis Vuitton, a brand synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship, further elevated the event. Zendaya's ability to embody different characters and styles, from the red carpet to the screen, continues to resonate with global audiences and fashion critics alike.

Manish Malhotra presented his Fall 2026 Couture collection in Paris this week, showcasing a blend of traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary design. The collection, titled 'Eternal Bloom,' featured approximately 45 distinct looks, each meticulously crafted with intricate embroidery and embellishments. The color palette leaned heavily into rich jewel tones, including emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red, contrasted with deep purples and opulent golds. Silhouettes ranged from voluminous lehengas and intricately draped sarees to sharp, tailored jackets and flowing gowns, demonstrating Malhotra's versatility in adapting traditional Indian attire for a global haute couture audience. A key highlight of the collection was the extensive use of hand-embroidered motifs, inspired by Mughal miniatures and ancient Indian textiles. These detailed patterns, often incorporating semi-precious stones and metallic threads, adorned fabrics such as silk, velvet, and organza. The show emphasized sustainable practices, with Malhotra's team sourcing ethically produced materials and employing artisans who practice traditional embroidery techniques. The presentation took place at the historic Palais Garnier, a venue that underscored the collection's theme of timeless elegance and artistic heritage. The finale featured a show-stopping bridal ensemble, a signature element of Malhotra's couture shows, which received a standing ovation from the assembled international press and celebrity guests. The collection aims to redefine modern Indian luxury on the international stage.

Balenciaga unveiled a couture version of its iconic City bag during Paris Fashion Week, highlighting the enduring appeal and adaptability of the design. This elevated iteration of the well-known handbag was showcased on the runway, emphasizing its status as a coveted accessory. The presentation focused on the meticulous craftsmanship and luxurious materials employed in the couture piece. The City bag, originally launched in 2001, has maintained its popularity over two decades, becoming a staple in the fashion industry. Its reinterpretation in a couture context underscores Balenciaga's commitment to blending heritage designs with high-fashion artistry. This move by Balenciaga positions the City bag not just as a functional accessory but as a piece of wearable art. The couture treatment suggests a renewed focus on artisanal techniques and exclusive, high-value items within the luxury market. The event served to reinforce the brand's legacy and its ability to innovate while respecting its foundational designs.

Pierpaolo Piccioli presented his debut Haute Couture collection for Balenciaga on January 21, 2024, in the gardens of the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris. The show marked a departure from his predecessor Demna's theatrical approach, focusing instead on the garments themselves. Piccioli aimed for a refined and focused presentation where the clothing took precedence over elaborate set design and theatrics. He described his methodology to WWD, stating, "Engineering the cuts, not using so many fabrics, not using additional structures, but arriving at the perfect meld between the fabric, the shape, the color and the surface — as if you used only one gesture to create the object." The collection featured bold, voluminous designs achieved through masterful cuts and the natural movement of fabrics. Garments highlighted included a tan trench coat made entirely of feathers over teal trousers, a monolithic violet gown that appeared to inflate in the wind, and an all-black ensemble for Gigi Hadid topped with a large black feather mane. These pieces exemplified Piccioli's philosophy of creating impactful designs with a singular, gestural approach, emphasizing the interplay of fabric, form, and light.

Actresses Demi Moore and Tallulah Willis were present at the Balenciaga Fall 2026 couture collection presentation held in Paris this past Wednesday. The mother-daughter duo shared a notable fashion moment, attending the highly anticipated event together. The Balenciaga couture show is a significant fixture in the fashion calendar, showcasing the latest in high-end design from the luxury house. This appearance marks another instance of the Willis family's engagement with the fashion world. Demi Moore, a veteran actress, has a history of attending high-profile fashion events, often accompanied by her daughters. Tallulah Willis, an emerging personality, has also been seen at various style-related gatherings, indicating a shared interest in fashion between mother and daughter. The Balenciaga presentation is known for its avant-garde designs and celebrity attendance, drawing a global audience of fashion enthusiasts and industry professionals. The specific details of the couture collection presented by Balenciaga for Fall 2026 were not elaborated upon in the provided context, but the event itself signifies a key moment for the brand and the broader fashion industry. Such events often set trends and influence design directions for upcoming seasons. The presence of Moore and Willis underscores the intersection of Hollywood and high fashion, a recurring theme in celebrity culture.

Elie Saab's Fall 2026 Couture collection, unveiled this week, channels the glamour and exuberance of legendary parties. The Lebanese designer drew inspiration from historical soirées and opulent gatherings, translating their festive spirit into a collection of breathtaking gowns and ensembles. This thematic choice aligns with the brand's ongoing trajectory of global growth and its established reputation for creating show-stopping, red-carpet-ready couture. The collection features a rich tapestry of textures and embellishments, characteristic of Saab's signature style. Intricate beadwork, delicate lace, and voluminous silhouettes dominate the designs, evoking a sense of timeless elegance and celebratory grandeur. Each piece appears crafted to make a statement, embodying the very essence of a grand ball or a star-studded event. The designs aim to transport the wearer to a realm of fantasy and celebration, a hallmark of high fashion's aspirational appeal. Beyond the aesthetic, the presentation of the Fall 2026 Couture line underscores Elie Saab's strategic global expansion. The brand has steadily increased its international presence, with flagship stores and a strong e-commerce platform catering to a discerning clientele worldwide. This collection, therefore, serves not only as a showcase of creative artistry but also as a testament to the brand's commercial success and its ability to resonate with diverse markets. The continued emphasis on luxurious craftsmanship and aspirational design reinforces Elie Saab's position as a leading name in the global luxury fashion landscape.

Viktor & Rolf presented their Fall 2026 Couture collection, a surrealist exploration of form and perception. The designs played with gravity and optical illusions, transforming familiar garments into unexpected sculptures. Models walked the runway in pieces that appeared to defy physics, with elements seemingly floating or inverted. The collection showcased a bold reimagining of classic couture silhouettes. Skirts were suspended as if by invisible forces, and bodices twisted into impossible shapes. One notable piece featured a voluminous gown where the skirt appeared to be held aloft by an unseen hand, creating a dramatic and dreamlike effect. Another design incorporated trompe-l'oeil techniques, making flat fabrics seem three-dimensional and creating visual paradoxes. Color palettes ranged from stark monochromatic schemes to rich, jewel-toned accents, emphasizing the sculptural qualities of the garments. Textures were also a key element, with contrasting materials used to enhance the surrealist narrative. The overall aesthetic aimed to challenge the viewer's perception of reality and the very nature of clothing as wearable art. This collection continues Viktor & Rolf's legacy of avant-garde design and theatrical presentation in haute couture.

Zuhair Murad presented his Fall 2026 Couture collection this week, showcasing a range of opulent and intricately detailed garments. The collection draws significant inspiration from celestial bodies and ancient mythology, translating these themes into wearable art. This season's designs emphasize dramatic silhouettes and luxurious fabrics, characteristic of Murad's signature style. The collection features a palette of deep blues, celestial silvers, and rich golds, evoking the night sky and divine figures. Embellishments play a crucial role, with extensive use of hand-sewn crystals, intricate beadwork, and delicate embroidery. These artisanal techniques highlight the craftsmanship and attention to detail that define Zuhair Murad's haute couture. Key pieces include voluminous ballgowns adorned with starburst patterns and flowing capes designed to mimic cosmic nebulae. Tailored suits and elegant separates also made an appearance, offering a modern interpretation of classical themes. The designer's commitment to creating show-stopping pieces that empower the wearer is evident throughout the presentation. Murad's Fall 2026 Couture collection continues his legacy of delivering breathtaking designs that blend fantasy with refined elegance. The presentation reinforces his position as a prominent figure in the world of haute couture, celebrated for his ability to transform dreams into tangible, exquisite creations.

Actress Zendaya maintains a consistent preference for Christian Louboutin's So Kate pumps, a classic shoe that has remained a staple in her wardrobe over time. This enduring choice highlights the lasting impact of the designer's iconic footwear on celebrity fashion. The So Kate pump, known for its sharp silhouette and elegant design, has been a consistent element in Zendaya's public appearances and personal style evolution. The shoe's timeless appeal allows it to complement a wide range of outfits, from red carpet looks to more casual ensembles. This longevity in her fashion choices underscores a deliberate approach to curating a wardrobe that balances trend-awareness with classic pieces. Christian Louboutin's designs are renowned for their distinctive red soles and luxurious craftsmanship, making the So Kate pump a symbol of high fashion. Zendaya's continued endorsement of this particular model suggests a deep appreciation for the shoe's aesthetic and quality. The actress's influence in fashion is significant, and her consistent selection of the So Kate pump reinforces its status as a must-have item for those who appreciate sophisticated footwear. The enduring presence of the So Kate pump in Zendaya's wardrobe speaks to the power of well-designed, classic pieces in the ever-changing landscape of fashion. It demonstrates that while trends may shift, certain iconic items retain their relevance and continue to be celebrated by style leaders.