See all the highlights from this season’s presentations.

The highly anticipated Haute Couture Fashion Week has commenced in Paris, with a thrilling lineup of renowned designers unveiling their spring/summer 2024 collections. The opening events featured captivating showcases from Schiaparelli, Giambattista Valli, and Dior, offering a glimpse into the exquisite gowns that are poised to grace the red carpet during the impending awards season.

Schiaparelli’s avant-garde collection, drawing inspiration from ethereal beings and the seamless connection between the terrestrial and celestial realms, has earned accolades from fashion enthusiasts globally. Meanwhile, Dior, led by designer Maria Grazia Chiuri, introduced a Haute Couture collection for Spring/Summer 2024 characterized by a fusion of eclectic patterns, subtle hues, and innovative shapes, paying homage to the artistry of textiles and craftsmanship.

Rahul Mishra’s focus on nature is evident in his intricately designed pieces that skillfully capture the intricate beauty of insects, their wings, and unique patterns. Chanel’s presentation exuded a romanticism reminiscent of the bygone era of Shakespearean times. In contrast, Kim Jones injected a sense of humanized futurism into Fendi’s latest collection, offering a fresh perspective on high fashion.

As we delve into the highlights from the various shows and presentations, the fashion landscape reveals a rich tapestry of creativity, innovation, and a harmonious blend of diverse inspirations, promising an exciting season ahead for haute couture enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

DIOR

Dior transformed the gardens of the Rodin Museum in Paris for their haute couture show, presenting a collection of sophisticated and elaborate pieces. Creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri envisioned a perfect haute couture wardrobe, blending simplicity with intricate details. The star-studded audience, including Rihanna and Anya Taylor-Joy, witnessed the stunning display.

ELIE SAAB

Elie Saab unveiled a collection inspired by the captivating beauty of a rare Desert Rose. The collection showcased lavish textures and sculpted silhouettes, capturing the essence and rhythm of Marrakesh.

FENDI

Kim Jones drew inspiration from Karl Lagerfeld’s futuristic designs during his tenure as artistic director at Fendi for their latest couture collection. The collection showcased a blend of structure and decoration, emphasizing precision and emotion. Jones also paid homage to the exceptional skills of the Fendi artisans, highlighting the craftsmanship of embroiderers, tailors, pattern-cutters, leather workers, and dressmakers.

SIMONE ROCHA for JEAN PAUL GAULTIER

London Fashion Week designer Simone Rocha collaborated with Jean Paul Gaultier for the couture collection, seamlessly blending the iconic motifs of both houses. The collection showcased backless ballgowns, stunning tulle creations, dresses with dramatic silhouettes, and signature elements such as bows, froth, pearls, and flowers. Sailor-inspired accessories, underwear-as-outerwear, corsets, and Rocha’s chic interpretation of Gaultier’s iconic cone bra also made an appearance.

CHANEL

Creative director Virginie Viard sought inspiration from the emotional connection she feels towards Chanel for this season’s collection. Ballet served as the focal point, reflecting in white tights, ruffled collars, leotards, and lace. Viard emphasized the symbiotic relationship between Chanel and the world of dance, as the house collaborates with choreographers and creates costumes for ballet. The collection exuded an ethereal quality, featuring tulle, ruffles, pleats, and lace while bringing together the strength and finesse of both bodies and clothes.

TAMARA RALPH

Returning to Paris for her 16th season of couture and her second season under her namesake brand, designer Tamara Ralph expressed her delight and excitement to share her passion with the world. The collection embraced bold femininity and uncompromising strength, showcasing new dimensions and growth in her creative vision.

VALENTINO

Pierpaolo Piccioli found inspiration in the timeless essence of haute couture for Valentino’s collection. The designs incorporated elements from the past while remaining rooted in modern life. The collection represented a modern wardrobe, evoking a freedom of expression associated with a love for true fashion. The house emphasized the obsessive pursuit of perfection and the passion for handcraftsmanship that characterizes haute couture.