BEST OF PARIS FASHION WEEK AW16

My very first season attending Paris Fashion Week for AW16, and without a doubt it was everything I’ve expected (minus the heavy rain on certain days)! The glamour, the architectural backdrops, the beautiful collections and the Fashion crowd all made the experience incredible..

Of course, being Parisian the city itself wasn’t new to me, but the way that the environment was during the week and to feel first-hand how this immense industry event added such a fun buzz to Paris was really a wonderful way to see it through a different lens. From the shows that I’ve been to, I wanted to show you the ones that stood out to me for their creativity, craftsmanship, bold collections or empowering vibes. I hope you will like them!

ALFREDO VILLALBA: Spanish couture and modern luxury Prêt-à-Porter brand with its own distinctive style, Alfredo Villalba is the epitome of bespoke high-end fashion. It was an honor to meet the designer, Diego Villalba, in person himself during the presentation of the A/W16 collection and Spring/Summer Couture line that is inspired by powerful femininity and fluid transparency.

A true artist, Diego Villalba sketches, designs, weaves, hand-sews and produces every single piece in their atelier based in Madrid to create perfection: the ultimate definition of couture. Each garment has the most impeccable fit and timeless elegance that takes it origins from Spanish culture. I had the amazing opportunity to wear one of their designs during Paris Fashion Week, and I can say it felt like a dream! If you hadn’t seen the post, you can have a read here: BIBI IN ALFREDO VILLALBA.

ANDREW GN: A brand known for its exclusive craftsmanship, beauty and artistry within fashion, this A/W16 collection was no exception to his true style. With a little twist, the designer took a take this season on Russian aristocracy, adding a modern flair on double-breasted military coats, kaki cropped-pants, feminine fur, silk shirts and adorable over-the-knee skirts. The collection was built inspired by the Royal family, with the clothing suited to the modern and empowering Tsarina.

Luxurious outerwear was combined with delicate fringe and tassels, all paying specific attention to detail and sharp tailoring that is a signature look for Andrew Gn. Colors remained more neutral with shades of brown, kaki, black, grey and white, with the occasional pop of bold reds and shining gold. With each progressive look walking down the runway, the collection became more and more extravagant, detailed and luxurious. A beautiful collection that I thoroughly enjoyed – both the story as well as the garments!

BARBARA BUI: One of my most anticipated shows of this season, Barbara Bui made heads turn in her Rock ‘n’ Roll sex appeal ready-to-wear collection! Taking inspiration from actress Bianca Jagger, rock meets glamour and a whole lot of leather staples, fringing, fur, and dramatic knee-high boots were injected into her free-spirited collection full of bold colors!

An innovative take on the edgy Rock ‘n’ Roll trend, with modernised leather mini-dresses, tan-culottes and bad-ass bomber jackets, Barbara Bui created a collection with the ultimate glam-rock feel that I can already say I cannot wait to be wearing come Fall/Winter!

GAUCHERE PARIS: A collection of color contrasts, boxy silhouettes and a cool-girl vibe, Gauchère managed to be playful with simplicity and a depth of femininity to garments that were loose-fitted. Each piece flowed so beautifully on the models walking down the runway; it portrayed a young woman with a certain vulnerability but yet strong and powerful behind the masculine sculptural garments. A breath of fresh air to watch!

LEA PECKRE: A transition from night to dawn, Lea Peckre‘s A/W16 collection showcases wearable pieces that tell the story of those early risers and party-goers. Shades of midnight blue transforming into shadowy white and aubergine red hues create day-round pieces with rigorous structures of ruffles, petals and ripples. At first sight, a graphic collection with a fun twist, and a deeper understanding brings out the contrast between professionalism and individuality.

I hope you enjoyed this recap, I thoroughly loved seeing each and every collection! Let me know which was your favorite!

 

Xx Bianca

All photos taken by me.