By Last but definitely not least, Paris is the final fashion capital to showcase the new Spring/Summer 2013 ready-to-wear collections and with some of the biggest and most influential fashion houses showing, it’s well worth the wait.
Christian DiorOur top Paris pick this season has to be Christian Dior’s show as Raf Simons takes centre stage, presenting his first ready-to-wear show for Dior. As former creative director at Dior Homme Slimane is critically acclaimed for his work at Jil Sander, we expect a significant shift in style for Dior this season now that Raf’s taken the lead. Indeed, an ultra-modernist designer at the helm of a historic French brand, we’re intrigued to see the result. Moreover, what will happen to the beautiful wasp-waisted corsets, petticoats and bustier-style bodices that have defined the 65-year old French fashion house? Surely he’ll delve into Dior’s stunning archive. Well, we’ll just have to wait till 2.30pm on the 28th of September when all shall be revealed in a VIP location in the French capital.
[Related gallery: Paris Fashion Week show guide]
Yves Saint LaurentEqually, we wait with baited breath for Yves Saint Laurent’s Spring/Summer 2013 show. The French fashion house which turned 50 this year will showcase Hedi Slimane’s first ready-to-wear collection, Saint Laurent. Another futuristic designer at the head of a traditional French brand, how will Hedi’s sleek background and minimalist approach marry with Yves Saint Laurent’s classic heritage? And how will Slimane transfer his couture-like designs into the more commercial prêt-à-porter (ready-to-wear) aesthetic? One thing’s for certain, we can expect the unexpected from the talented craftsman. Showing at 8pm on the 1st of October, Yves Saint Laurent’s Spring/Summer 2013 collection will mark a pivotal moment in fashion history. Exciting times.
Chanel / Louis VuittonLikewise, the grand spectacles put on by Chanel and Louis Vuitton every season is not to be missed. Chanel’s glacial catwalk last season complete with giant shards of ice, certainly added the final touches to the chilling wintery Autumn/Winter 2012 shows in Paris. Whilst Louis Vuitton also presented a visual feast for Autumn/Winter 2012 as models in chic ensembles accompanied by station guards carrying signature Louis Vuitton luggage looked set to board the Orient Express as they circumnavigated a large steam train. Such was the grandiose scale of each of the French fashion houses’, shows that at a glance both could be mistaken as pieces of great theatre or even film. Having set the bar high and with expectations rising, they’ve got a challenge on their hands - what to come up with next? Not an easy task but so far both Chanel and Louis Vuitton have delivered exceptional shows at Paris Fashion Week and this season will no doubt be even better. Chanel will show on Tuesday the 2nd of October at the Grand Palace, whilst Louis Vuitton will be showing on the last day, Wednesday the 3rd October at 10am. So make sure you check out our Fashion Weeks special as we bring you, in all its glory the latest from the revolutionary shows this season at Paris Fashion Week.
