Credit (L-R): Alexis Mabille, Christian Dior, Alexandre Vauthier
Paris Couture Week was done a little differently this year. While we may not have had the chance to experience the collections firsthand in the French capital, many of the brands took the opportunity to showcase their collections in new, digital formats. Christian Dior enlisted the help of Italian filmmaker Mateo Garrone on the creation of a magical film in which doll-sized couture pieces travelled through an enchanting forest, while Chanel commissioned Mikael Jansson for photos and a video of their 30-look collection.
Scroll down to see our 10 favourite looks from the “shows”:
1. Viktor & Rolf
Credit: Viktor & Rolf
The finale look by designer duo, Viktor & Rolf, is exactly what we need more of in the world right now – love. Their video presentation was narrated with the quote, “We all deserve to be loved, regardless of age, colour, gender race, religion, or sexuality” – a message that always rings true.
2. Schiaparelli
Credit: Schiaparelli
While new artistic director Daniel Roseberry did not present a formal show, the collection was sketched out and noted. One of our favourite looks is the one-shouldered jacket that will be matched with trousers in a contrasting cowboy fit.
3. Christian Dior
Credit: Christian Dior
One of the most outstanding looks from Mateo Garrone’s 10-minute film “Le Mythe Dior” is this beautifully tiered opera coat in jet black.
4. Giambattista Valli
Credit: Giambattista Valli
Giambattista Valli may be known for his high-impact floor-sweeping gowns (a favourite for red carpets and brides worldwide), but this scarlet red minidress steals the show with its dramatically pleated sleeves. Feeling a little shy like Joan Smalls here? Simply hide behind the layers of tulle.
5. Chanel
Credit: Chanel
The Chanel couture bride is a finale look that I eagerly anticipate each season, who often came down the runway hand-in-hand with the late Karl Lagerfeld. This season, Virginie Viard’s bride plays on proportion in an off-body hoop skirt dress reminiscent of the Victorian era.
6. Chanel
Credit: Chanel
Chanel’s iconic tweed jacket gets reimagined this season and is lengthened in this monochrome gown with contrasting sleeves. What’s not to love?
7. Ronald van der Kemp
Credit: Ronald van der Kemp
While a boiler suit may sound like a big departure from the notion of Couture, leave it to Ronald van der Kemp to dazzle us with this surprisingly chic and utilitarian look.
8. Alexandre Vauthier
Credit: Alexandre Vauthier
Alexandre Vauthier commissioned photographer duo, Ines and Vinoodh, to shoot his Fall 2020 collection in the Hamptons. Model Angok Mayen strikes a pose in a gilded golden gown right on the beach, proving that lockdown can be glamorous.
9. Bouchra Jarrar
Credit: Bouchra Jarrar
I love the understated sensibility to Jarrar’s designs. This look, which features a strapless top accented with top-up feathers and paired with simple white, wide-legged trousers is toned down in design, but flawless in execution.
10. Alexis Mabille
Credit: Alexis Mabille
The sound of a ‘navy taffeta gown’ may feel dated, but Alexis Mabille’s finale look was served up with exaggerated ruffle sleeves that merged with the skirt train. We love the subtle contrast of colour yet drama in shape.