French fashion designer Julien Dossena, Creative director of Rabanne, took a whimsical trip across the English Channel for inspiration for his Cruise 2025 (Resort 2025) collection. This isn’t a literal journey, however, but a sartorial exploration fueled by Dossena’s fascination with British style.
The “English Rose Remix” collection, unveiled in June 2024, playfully blends classic British staples with Rabanne’s signature avant-garde glamour. Think chunky tartan coats juxtaposed with glittery animal-print tops, and granny cardigans layered over deconstructed shirtdresses. Dossena describes it as a “wild Paco Rabanne girl on a weekend getaway.”
This Anglophilic inspiration stems from Dossena’s admiration for the freedom and individuality ingrained in British fashion. “It’s the freedom of it,” he explains. “You can feel the cultural identity of English people straightaway, in how they mix things together to build their identities.”
Dossena honed in on a specific era: British thrift-store finds from the 80s and early 90s, coinciding with the rise of techno music and New Wave. This focus allowed him to explore both casual wear and Rabanne’s signature party pieces. Think “energetic camo” alongside sequined minis and chainmail dresses.
The collection cleverly references British heritage through subtle nods. Shimmering lozenge-shaped paillettes on a top playfully echo the diamond pattern of a Scottish argyle sweater. A long, fringed paisley dress evokes the idea of a resourceful young woman repurposing her grandmother’s scarves.
Dossena acknowledges the tongue-in-cheek nature of his tribute, particularly in a post-Brexit world. He admits, “Of course, my take on British style is as French as French could be.” Yet, this is precisely the charm of the collection. It’s a love letter from a Parisian designer, filtered through his unique French lens, celebrating the quirky spirit of British fashion.
Read more: Louis Vuitton Cruise 2025
©Photo: Rabanne
