This season marks 50 years of fashion weeks in Paris. What, for you, makes Paris Fashion Week® unlike any other?
For me, Paris Fashion Week® stands out because it’s where the very concept of a “fashion week” was born. Its origins trace back to the 1800s, setting the stage for the fashion calendar as we know it today. But it’s not just about the history; Paris Fashion Week® consistently hosts some of the most innovative designers in the industry. It’s where heritage houses like Loewe, Courrèges, and Rabanne seamlessly share the stage with avant-garde visionaries like Rick Owens, Yohji Yamamoto, and Junya Watanabe. I also love how newer designers, like Vaquera and Kimhekim, bring fresh energy to the week, making it this perfect blend of legacy and cutting-edge experimentation.
What excites you in fashion right now?
Wearable, innovative designs with a sharp cultural lens – no gimmicks for the chronically online.
What is one reason to be optimistic about the state of fashion going forward?
The increasingly discerning fashion consumer, who is more invested in understanding the references, concepts, and worlds behind the brands. I’m not just referring to those who can afford the fashion, but to communities that deeply engage with the essence of these brands, often exploring them beyond the confines of traditional ownership. This trend will only grow as fashion becomes an even larger cornerstone of pop culture.
Who or what will drive the greatest change in fashion this year?
A cultural shift toward romance. As the industry and culture have increasingly moved into the digital realm, we’ve become overly conceptual and reliant on images, prioritising visual impact over emotional connection. While I celebrate the growing interest in the thought processes behind designs, I believe we’re ready to gravitate toward brands that evoke genuine feelings inspired by real-world experiences
Can you suggest a fashion mantra as we look ahead to ’25?
Study, Feel, Live. (Don’t forget to touch grass).
This interview has been lightly edited.
