Written by Samantha Tse, CNNParis, France
CNN Style is one of the official media partners of Paris Fashion Week. See all coverage here.
The menswear shows in Paris have wrapped for another season, giving way to a run of haute couture presentations. Despite chilling temperatures and a debilitating transit strike, the fashion community came out in full force to see new collections from some of the world's leading menswear designers.
This season's event, which ended Sunday, offered a number of firsts, including the unexpected debut of Usher's brightly-hued hair and the much-awaited collaboration between Louis Vuitton and American designer Colm Dillane of KidSuper.
From celebrity sightings to comedy shows and — of course — standout collections, read on for our impressions from the Fall-Winter 2023 shows.
Usher's new neon 'do
Usher with blood orange hair.
Credit: Pierre Suu/Getty Images
The Grammy-award winning artist lit up the front row with his new head of flaming orange hair. Usher debuted his neon, ombre effect look on the first day of shows at Wales Bonner and was spotted again at Bianca Saunders the next day. Wearing the full opening look from last season's runway, his attendance had photographers clamoring for a shot.
Geometry class at Issey Miyake
A dancing interlude demonstrated movement of the clothes at Issey Miyake's catwalk.
Credit: Victor Virgile/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images
Geometric shapes, with a strong focus on triangles, was the starting point and the impetus for this season's Homme Plissé Issey Miyake collection‚ showing the many iterations of how triangles and other angular elements can be twisted and manipulated into complex silhouettes and patterns.
Signature pleats, of course, were in abundance from pleated trousers to folded detailing on sleeveless shirts and coats, and larger, looser folds that fell from the shoulders on nylon outerwear.
The show was punctuated with dance performances that showcased how well the garments moved, as performers wove in and around a light show that featured — you guessed it — more geometric shapes.
Jenna Ortega Channeled Grace Jones at Saint Laurent
Jenna Ortega attends the Saint Laurent menswear show in Paris.
Credit: Stephane Cardinale/Corbis/Getty
Jenna Ortega, star of the Netflix series "Wednesday," stepped out in a black hooded, backless gown for Anthony Vaccarello's first men's show for Saint Laurent in Paris. The halter-style dress, from the brand's Spring-Summer 2023 collection, was reminiscent of Grace Jones' iconic signature look. Sitting front row, the actor was visibly mesmerized by Charlotte Gainsbourg's piano performance that closed the show.
Rick Owens orthopedic boots
Rick Owens took chunky boots to the extreme at his menswear show.
Credit: Victor Virgile/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images
Rick Owens is no stranger to statement shoes — his vertiginous Kiss platforms have become a cult item. This season, the American designer channeled orthopedic glam with a boot that offered a far chunkier silhouette up the leg, featuring thick padding held together with leather buckled straps. Chicest way to recover from a broken foot?
Rosalía rocked Louis Vuitton
Rosalía stole the show at the Louis Vuitton runway.
Credit: Stephane Cardinale/Corbis via Getty Images
Spanish popstar Rosalía rocked the roof off the Louvre with her electrifying performance for the Louis Vuitton fashion show, which unveiled a new collection with its first guest creative director, Colm Dillane of KidSuper. The artist opened the show wearing an all-white oversized ensemble and walked the runway with a torch flashing the French brand's iconic monogram before climbing up onto a yellow car and launching into a rendition of her hit "Candy."
The Fall-Winter 2023 collection featured a mix of elegant tailoring, utility wear, sports-inspired separates and patchwork coats.
Grown up rave culture at Dries Van Noten
A drum performance by Belgium duo Lander & Adriaan scored the Dries Van Noten show.
Credit: Peter White/Getty Images
Music has always been important to Dries Van Noten. Keen followers will remember his Fall-Winter 2011 show, soundtracked by specially mixed David Bowie masters. This season, the Belgium designer explored 90s rave culture with a more grown-up sensibility. Guests went to a multi-level parking garage for the show, stacked with experimental musicians performing mellow techno beats, while beer was offered from a steel cart. At the top, Belgium duo Lander & Adriaan performed what the show notes called "sophisti-rave" on drums and synthesizers. The hypnotic soundtrack set the tone for the new collection that featured flora and fauna motifs, furry clogs, outerwear that ranged from tailored coats with nipped waists to oversized puffer jackets with abstract patterns, and roomy 90s-era cargo pants.
Junya Watanabe unveils Palace collaboration
Junya Wantanabe collaborated with London-based skatewear brand Palace.
Credit: Estrop/Getty Images
Junya Watanabe, well known for his extensive list of fashion collaborations, chose to celebrate the many brands he has worked with over the years — including New Balance, Oakley, North Face and Timberland — in a predominantly monochromatic collection. Also spotted on the runway was the unmistakable Tri-Ferg logo from Palace, the London-based skatewear brand, on a black part puffer part parka jacket. Another first.
The Swinging Sixties at Kenzo
Nigo's third collection for Kenzo was inspired by The Beatles, and scored by covers of the bands most famous songs.
Credit: Victor Virgile/Gamma-Rapho/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images
Kenzo's artistic director Nigo has long been an anglophile, and his love for The Beatles runs at least as far back as 1999 — when he starred in an Abbey Road-themed cover shoot for Relax Magazine. In the show notes of his third collection for the brand, the Japanese designer compared the clothes to the storied "The White Album," referencing the eclectic mix of cultural and style references drawing from the Brits, Americans and of course, the Japanese. Staged in a Parisian concert hall, the show featured a lively performance of "Can't Buy Me Love," and "I Want to Hold Your Hand" by all-female, Japanese foursome the 1966 Quartet. The new fab four had the entire concert hall singing and cheering while models walked around their two violins, cello and piano.
KidSuper finds fashion's funny bone
KidSuper's fashion comedy show featured a cast of comedians dressed in the new collection.
Credit: Ik Aldama
Outside the Casino de Paris, editors, guests and fashion denizens were packed like sardines while trying to get into KidSuper's "Funny Business" fashion comedy show, hosted by supermodel Tyra Banks. Inspired by Netflix's comedy specials, an impressive lineup of comedians including Jeff Ross, Emmy-nominated actress Yvonne Orji and French comedian Fary roasted the brand's founder Colm Dillane while dressed in the new collection. The theme was tailoring with a twist, from suiting embroidered with tailor's chalk mark to painterly peacoats doused in watercolor brush strokes.
On his unorthodox approach to runway shows, Dillane told CNN Style backstage he wants "something that lives on, that lasts more than those 15 minutes."
"I always thought it was such a waste of money for something so ephemeral. So, I'm going to create concepts that have legs, and for this show, I thought how cool would it be to do this comedy show that I can keep doing - what if next year I do this in New York? And the year after, somewhere else?"
Sacai and Carhartt work double time
For Sacai's Fall-Winter 2023 collection, Japanese designer Chitose Abe collaborated with workwear brand Carhartt.
Credit: Victor Virgile/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images
Japanese designer Chitose Abe partnered up with workwear brand Carhartt WIP for her Fall-Winter 2023 collection. It was a joyful exploration of Carhartt's typically straight-edged style, infused with Abe's romantic and unique perspective. Pockets were doubled and proportions were distorted as Abe subverted the brand's signature offerings — from inside-out looking parkas with contrasting quilted padding and shearling panels to Carhartt's iconic Michigan coats reimagined as soft knitted jackets with gold buttons.
FAQs
What brands are shown at Paris Fashion Week? ›
Alongside, new collections from the wide gamut of designers and houses that have long called Paris Fashion Week home – Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel, Saint Laurent, Loewe, Hermès, Valentino, Givenchy and Miu Miu among them. Here, in our ongoing round-up, is the best of Paris Fashion Week A/W 2023.
Is Paris Fashion Week a big deal? ›Paris Fashion Week, running from 27 February to 7 March, is considered as one of the 'Big 4' fashion events. It is where every big designer and the who's who of fashion congregate in the most stylish of ways. If you are a fashion watcher, then Paris Fashion Week is where your attention should be.
What is Paris Fashion Week famous for? ›Organized by the French Fashion Federation, the fashion week includes over 100 shows which feature top fashion houses such as Chanel, Christian Dior or Yves Saint Laurent, as well as lesser-known designers. The financial impact of the PFW on the French capital amounts to €400 million, excluding sales in stores.
Is Paris Fashion Week bigger than New York Fashion Week? ›So, Which is “Bigger?” Ultimately, this is probably a useless question. In number of raw shows, NYFW edges PFW out (although not by much). In terms of “big names,” Paris takes an indisputable lead (in fact, it's second only to Milan for household name designers).
Can a regular person go to Paris Fashion Week? ›Seating is limited so you must have advanced reservations. Bring your confirmation voucher and an ID to ensure a seat. The Fashion Show ticket is also included as part of the Paris Pass. So if you have a Paris Pass, you can attend the fashion show without purchasing a ticket, but you need to book in advance.
Can just anyone go to Fashion Week? ›How do I get tickets to New York Fashion Week 2023? NYFW includes two types of shows: Industry and open-to-the-public shows. Unless you're a buyer or work in press, it is unlikely that you'll be able to snag a seat to the heavy hitters. However, you can nab tickets to the public shows here.
Is Paris Fashion Week open to public? ›Although the FHCM does not currently offer tickets to their official Paris Fashion Week shows, some high-profile and emerging designers do offer off-calendar tickets during Paris Fashion Week.
How do you walk in Fashion Week? ›When walking, your back should be straight, core tight, and shoulders back and down – but in a relaxed, not a forced, way. As you walk, your arms should swing slightly and you should keep your hands relaxed. This will help you keep a strong pace. Don't move your hips too much, they should stay straight.
Which fashion week is the most prestigious? ›Paris Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week, London Fashion Week and Milan Fashion Week are the most known Fashion Weeks around the world, attracting buyers, the media, celebrities, top models and designers who proudly present their latest collections.
What is the difference between New York and Paris Fashion Week? ›Paris has historically been the “cradle” of the fashion industry even though New York Fashion week was established first. New York Fashion Week keeps up with the hip trends where Paris Fashion Week focuses on the traditional culture of fashion.
Which city has the best fashion week? ›
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For example, most haute couture shows are held in Paris, while most business and sales-oriented shows and some haute couture shows take place in New York.
The American designers, due to errors in measurement conversion, collectively held one showing under the common theme of Paris using both Caucasian and African-American models. The American designers' use of diversity in models marked the event as the first time African-American models had walked a French runway.
What is a fun fact about Paris Fashion Week? ›The first Paris Fashion Week took place on November 28, 1973 and was supervised by the founder of New York Fashion Week, Eleanor Lambert. This event was was the first time that collections of Haute Couture, prêt-à-porter, and menswear were showcased together in Paris.
Why is Paris the fashion capital of the world? ›It is currently home to the headquarters of Rochas, Vuitton, Balenciaga, Céline, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, Dior, Givenchy, Chloe, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Hermès and Lanvin. The concept of haute couture ('high sewing' or 'high dressmaking' or 'high fashion') was invented in Paris.
What is the #1 fashion capital of the world? ›Since the 16th century, Milan has been regarded as the world's fashion capital.
What is the biggest fashion event in the world? ›The "Big Four" events are the Paris Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week. Among the most popular fashion weeks is also Arab Fashion Week, Vancouver Fashion Week and Russia Fashion Week.
What is the fashion capital of the world? ›Milan is officially named the fashion capital of the world.
Do people wear jeans in Paris? ›Parisians do wear jeans and t-shirts, but only in appropriate situations, and you'll notice their jeans and t-shirts are a lot more design-y and cut a lot slimmer. When you're going out to eat in a restaurant, think of how you'd dress for that same level of restaurant back home, and then dress nicer than that.
Can you wear whatever you want in Paris? ›French people like when people dress up. But don't feel you have to. Just pay attention to what you are wearing, with a good balance between comfort and style, and you'll fit in perfectly!
How much should I bring to Paris for a week? ›Paris trip cost
I estimate that one week in Paris will cost approximately $2,150 per person. Paris is a great city filled with incredible sites and attractions and plenty to see and do. It can be easy to get carried away in your spending.
Can you take pictures at fashion week? ›
Most definitely! Keep in mind we do not allow long professionals lenses in order not to obstruct view by other attendee's, however we highly encourage this. Please tag the designer, as well as The SOCIETY.
Do celebrities get paid for fashion week? ›1. Designers pay celebrities to attend their shows. Celebrities mean press coverage, which is hard to get when dozens of fashion shows happen every day during fashion week. The bigger the celebrity, the more they cost and the greater the buzz around them and the show.
Does Gucci do fashion week? ›Gucci kicked off Milan Fashion Week on Friday with a lineup of slouchy, androgynous menswear styles, forging ahead with its latest collection while the industry waits for owner Kering to name a new designer for the label.
Can anyone attend NY fashion week? ›While most of the runway shows for major brands, like Coach and Michael Kors, are by invitation-only for editors, buyers, stylists and other fashion industry players, there are still ways for the general public who are interested in fashion to attend and participate in New York Fashion Week.
How to attend Dior Fashion Show? ›HOW CAN I ATTEND A DIOR FASHION SHOW? Dior does not sell tickets to the fashion shows. Guests invited to our fashion shows are selected by our press relations department located at our Paris headquarters.
Where is Men's fashion week in Paris? ›The Epicenter of Paris Fashion Week
Many designers play it safe, and showcase at the Carrousel du Louvre. This is the epicenter of Paris, filled with photographers trying to capture the faces of celebrities … not to mention tourists trying to squeeze past the guards to get a look at the action.
You could earn between $200–$1,000, or, instead of payment, get to keep some clothing from the show. Gabriela Pierantoni, the owner of Corestone Models, says experienced runway models could earn $500–$2,500 per show. Supermodels, on the other hand, could make up to $20,000 for a runway show.
Why do models cross their legs when they walk? ›Mostly used by models, who are by definition tall and slender, the crossed legs is the standing sister of seated crossed legs. The pose can make a dress of any length look demure – even the shortest of minis – and by a trick of the eye, makes the legs look half the width.
Do you get paid for walking fashion week? ›Do models get paid walking fashion Week? Runway models are often compensated hourly, and the pay isn't always as glamorous as the job. According to Cosmopolitan, runway models can make anywhere from $0 to $20,000 or more for a single show.
What is the #1 fashion school in the US? ›A. The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), New York, NY is the top fashion school in the US. The school offers 48 degree programs in fashion and other creative and business professions and is consistently ranked as one of the best fashion schools.
What are the big 4 fashion weeks? ›
There are four important fashion weeks, often referred to as the "Big 4": New York, Paris, London and Milan.
What is the most prestigious fashion school in the world? ›- Fashion Institute of Technology, US.
- London College of Fashion, UK.
- Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, US.
- School of Arts, Design and Architecture, Finland.
- Central Saint Martins, UK.
- Parsons: Fashion, Art and Design School, US.
Both New York and Los Angeles are popular destinations for professionals seeking work in the fashion industry. New York City has long been considered the fashion capital of the United States.
What is the fashion capital of USA? ›New York City, and to a lesser extent Los Angeles, are the centers of America's fashion industry. They are considered leading fashion capitals. New York City is considered to be one of the "big four" global fashion capitals, along with Paris, Milan, and London.
What city in the US has the best fashion? ›Not only is New York City one of the most fashionable cities in the country, it is also a top contender in the world.
Which country is most ahead in fashion? ›...
- Italy. #1 in Fashionable. ...
- France. #2 in Fashionable. ...
- Spain. #3 in Fashionable. ...
- United States. #4 in Fashionable. ...
- United Kingdom. ...
- Switzerland. ...
- South Korea. ...
- Singapore.
Paris Men's Fashion Week (PFW) received even more attention that season, generating $50.6M MIV with Louis Vuitton leading with a $16M total MIV. On the other hand, if we look at Women's F/W 2022 report, New York Fashion Week generated $117M in MIV, with Michael Kors reaching a total of $13.9M MIV.
Where are most of the fashion shows in Paris? ›As usual, the majority of Paris Fashion Week shows will take place in the Carrousel du Louvre, the underground shopping mall in the center of Paris.
What is the difference between Haute Couture and prêt à porter? ›Firstly, it's important to know the literal meanings behind these pretty sounding French phrases. 'Prêt-à-Porter quite literally means 'Ready-to-Wear'. 'Haute Couture' is generally used to deem anything 'High Fashion'. This isn't too far off, as Haute Couture means 'high sewing' or 'high dressmaking'.
What brands do Paris Fashion Week? ›- Chanel. Chanel A/W 2022. (Image credit: press) ...
- Miu Miu. (Image credit: press) ...
- Akris. Akris A/W 2022. ...
- Lanvin. Lanvin A/W 2022. ...
- Louis Vuitton. Louis Vuitton A/W 2022. ...
- Sacai. Sacai A/W 2022. ...
- Balenciaga. Balenciaga A/W 2022. ...
- Valentino. Valentino A/W 2022.
Do people dress up more in Paris? ›
In general, French women dress less casually day-to-day than Americans, but also less over-the-top in the evening. Overtly sexy isn't the look in Paris. French women leave something to the imagination, so leave your tube tops, short shorts and bandage dresses at home.
Where is the most fashionable city in the world? ›- New York, USA. New York is recognized as the official capital of US fashion. ...
- London, UK. ...
- Paris, France. ...
- Milan, Italy. ...
- Los Angeles, USA. ...
- BIO: Elizabeth Baldridge.
- SITUATIONIST.
- VAQUERA.
- SCHIAPARELLI.
- SACAI.
- LOUIS VUITTON.
- SHIATZY CHEN.
- ZIMMERMANN.
- GAUCHERE.
Just as Men's MFW Fall/Winter 2023 officially comes to an end, Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2023 begins. The week opened with the long-awaited Gucci show following Alessandro Michele's departure, as well as other major Maisons like Prada and Fendi.
Is Louis Vuitton in Paris Fashion Week? ›Louis Vuitton presented its menswear fall 2023 collection today during Paris Fashion Week. Karlie Kloss, Kit Harrington, Usher and more stars sat front row at the event. The runway show also featured a surprise performance by Rosalia.
Does Gucci do Fashion Week? ›Gucci kicked off Milan Fashion Week on Friday with a lineup of slouchy, androgynous menswear styles, forging ahead with its latest collection while the industry waits for owner Kering to name a new designer for the label.
What is the theme of Fashion Week 2023? ›The fashion week schedule for 2023 kicks off with Berlin Fashion Week, taking place from January 17 – 21. The theme Active Alliance for Positive Fashion taps into topics of sustainability, innovation, and the influence of various subcultures.
What will be in style in 2023? ›- 2023 Fashion Trend: Red.
- 2023 Fashion Trend: Cargo Pants.
- 2023 Fashion Trend: Sheer Clothing.
- 2023 Fashion Trend: Denim Reimagined.
- 2023 Fashion Trend: Shine For The Daytime.
- 2023 Fashion Trend: Maxi Skirts.
- 2023 Fashion Trend: Cobalt Blue.
The short answer is yes, luxury brands are cheaper in Paris. If you are looking for a designer handbag, belt, accessory, clothing, etc then Paris is the place to go! Let's dive down to the nitty-gritty and explain why luxury brands are cheaper in Paris and Europe.
Is Jacquemus in Paris Fashion Week? ›Jacquemus is to open his first eponymous store, avenue Montaigne, on September 27, 2022, in the middle of the Paris Fashion Week.
Is Versace in Paris Fashion Week? ›
The Italian fashion house has confirmed that it will not hold a spring haute couture show at Paris Fashion Week. 'Versace will not participate in the Paris haute couture shows,' the Italian label confirmed to Efe.
Why is Louis Vuitton so cheap in Paris? ›VAT Refund
The main reason, however, to buy your next Louis Vuitton piece in Paris is because of the VAT tax refund, i.e. the sales tax refund! All European countries have a system in which you spend over a certain amount of money, you receive a VAT refund.
Stars are rarely paying for their designer duds themselves. As SheFinds explains, celebrities are often gifted free luxury goods by designers' public relations teams, knowing that if people see an A-lister wearing the brand's clothes, they are more likely to buy them.
Does Louis Vuitton have dress code? ›The dress code at Louis Vuitton is formal and provided by the company. The company provides its employees with all-black uniforms. Male employees are provided two suits and ties along with a Louis Vuitton belt. Female employees are provided with two suit jackets and their choice of pants or skirts and an LV handbag.
Does Prada do Fashion Week? ›MILAN, Feb 23 (Reuters) - Florals bloomed on skirts, shoes and from the ceiling at Italian designer label Prada's Milan Fashion Week show on Thursday.
Which Fashion Week is the biggest? ›Paris Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week, London Fashion Week and Milan Fashion Week are the most known Fashion Weeks around the world, attracting buyers, the media, celebrities, top models and designers who proudly present their latest collections.