The fashion world was buzzing with excitement last Wednesday as the Paco Rabanne collection made its long-awaited return to the runway. The show, held at the Musée d’Art Moderne in Paris, was a celebration of the late designer’s friendship with Salvador Dali and a retrospective of some of his most iconic designs.
The streets outside the museum were filled with fans eagerly waiting for the show to begin while inside, the front row was filled with luminaries from the fashion world, including Jean Paul Gaultier and Amanda Lear, who both had close ties to Rabanne and Dali.
Creative director Julien Dossena paid tribute to the “Space Age” creator by leaving a card on each seat that thanked Rabanne for his “utopic creative approach” and “radical engagement” that changed the world’s view of fashion. Under Dossena’s leadership, the brand has continued its Hollywood legacy, dressing the likes of Cardi B, Adele, and Marisa Tomei for high-profile events.
The Fall/Winter 2023 collection was a nod to Rabanne’s work with materials, with furry alpaca taking center stage. Dossena transformed the soft fabric into cozy tailored trousers and bow-front sweaters, paired with chunky hardware belts and sneakers. However, the designer’s primary focus was on evening wear, with one stunning look after another taking to the runway. Dresses shimmered with sequins and feathers, hugged the body with sculpted metal bras, and gleamed with mousseline and crystals.
Ten years into his role at Paco Rabanne, Dossena shows no signs of slowing down. “There’s always another side to explore“, he said of the brand’s endless possibilities. Rabanne’s boundless curiosity and authenticity of desire continue to inspire and captivate the fashion world.
