Stars and Statement Styles Shine at Paris Haute Couture Week

Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week returned with spectacle and star power as some of the world’s most influential designers and celebrities gathered in the French capital for four days of high fashion. The twice yearly event showcased handcrafted, custom fitted designs from a select group of fashion houses, combining heritage confirms with fresh creative direction. Front rows were packed with global stars, including musicians, actors and fashion leaders, underscoring couture’s enduring cultural influence. This season carried added weight with debut collections from new creative heads at major houses and emotionally charged presentations following recent losses within the fashion world. The week delivered a blend of theatrical sets, intricate craftsmanship and celebrity moments that reinforced couture’s role as fashion’s most exclusive stage.

One of the most anticipated shows came from Chanel, where its new chief designer presented a vision that balanced tradition with experimentation. Staged inside the Grand Palais, the runway was transformed into a surreal landscape, setting the tone for a collection that reimagined classic house codes. Tweed references appeared alongside lighter fabrics, feathers and sculptural silhouettes inspired by birds, offering both familiarity and surprise. The audience included leading figures from film, music and publishing, reflecting the house’s global reach. The show signalled a new chapter while maintaining Chanel’s recognisable elegance, proving that heritage brands can evolve without losing their identity.

Dior also drew attention with its first couture collection under new leadership, presenting a floral themed show built around fluid shapes and restrained colour palettes. Nature influenced not only garments but accessories, with playful details adding contrast to otherwise minimalist designs. Elsewhere, Valentino’s presentation embraced theatricality and colour, with lace, embellishment and bold shapes creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Armani Privé marked an emotional moment with its first couture outing since the founder’s death, offering pastel tones, refined tailoring and eveningwear that stayed true to the brand’s understated luxury. Elie Saab completed the week’s highlights by revisiting his Middle Eastern roots, delivering richly embellished gowns in warm tones that celebrated glamour and craftsmanship.

Beyond the runways, the week was defined by celebrity appearances and cultural moments that amplified its global appeal. Designers, editors and entertainers moved between shows, cementing Paris as the centre of the fashion world. Haute couture remains a niche market, but its influence extends far beyond custom garments, shaping trends, storytelling and brand identity across the industry. This season’s shows demonstrated how couture continues to adapt, honouring tradition while responding to modern tastes. As fashion houses look ahead, Paris Haute Couture Week once again confirmed its status as the ultimate showcase of creativity, artistry and star driven spectacle.