After weeks of back to back shows, tightly packed schedules across New York, London and Milan, the season has reached its grand finale in Paris Fashion Week. But before the industry fully exhales, there’s the ritual that always follows the final runway: decoding what it all meant. From Mathieu Blazy’s daringly low waistlines to the incredible Indian embroideries at Dries Van Noten, Paris always delivered, and the runways offered a clear glimpse into where fashion is heading next. As editors, stylists and buyers begin the ritual of decoding, these are the five trends that ultimately defined Paris Fashion Week.
Peplum made a striking return on the Paris runways; the silhouette moved far beyond its once familiar fitted structure. At Stella McCartney, fluid, asymmetric folds were sewn into the waistlines creating movement while subtly defining the body. A more architectural version was seen at Balmain, where a structured peplum was integrated into a tailored leather jacket. At Dior, Jonathan Anderson presented a gothic-inspired, avant-garde take on the peplum, where the volume originated at the hip and waist.
If the runway at Paris Fashion Week proved anything this season, it’s that over the knee boots were going to be the chicest accessories. Rising well above the knees, these added a sense of confidence and undeniable allure. Models at the Givenchy show walked in sleek, black thigh-high boots (also available in jacquard) with polished, straight silhouettes. Meanwhile at Chloé, slouchy leather boots with big fold overs and fur lining lent a relaxed bohemian feel. At Hermes, the boots were ultra sensual and fit like a second skin, conveying rich equestrian elegance.
From classic tartans to softer ginghams, the enduring pattern dominated the Paris Fashion Week. Designers reimagined classic patterns for a contemporary moment. Louis Vuitton delivered a maximalist approach to checks through bold pattern mixing, while a flowy tiered skirt at Chloé offered a soft bohemian take on intricate tartans. Outer-wear at Andreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood continued their legacy of British tartans, balancing tradition with modern edge.
Transparency took centre stage with sheer dressing emerging as one of the most striking statement pieces this season. Designers experimented with delicate lace, airy organza and translucent fabrics. At Alexander McQueen, ethereal and feminine off- white organza dresses created a dream-like effect. Saint Laurent and lace go very well, even if its silicon covered that balances sensuality with refined elegance. Meanwhile, Mame Kurogouchi referenced Japanese Wa-glass craft to create crisp, transparent textiles.
Amidst the season’s fluid fabrics and sheer layers, structure emerged as a powerful counterpoint. From sharply cut jackets to sculpted dresses, designers embraced fashion’s architectural side. Drawing on the legacy of Mugler’s power dressing, the silhouettes in the show felt commanding, emphasising strong geometry and precision. The skirt at Schiaparelli held a firm, defined shape that laid emphasis on precision and controlled volume. Engineered fabrics at CFCL created dramatic drapes, turning knitwear into a softly sculpted silhouette.
