Internationally recognised art and literary critic, writer and cultural producer. Published in ELLE, Glamour, Esquire and Cosmopolitan; member of the Union of Writers.
As the global epicentre of fashion, Paris has always been synonymous with luxury, creativity, and innovation. Paris Fashion Week is where designers, models, and A-list celebrities come together, making bold sartorial statements. This year, the star-studded event was no exception, with renowned figures from the world of entertainment stepping into the spotlight, dressed in the latest collections from the most coveted fashion houses. From unforgettable runway debuts to celebrities turning heads in the front rows, Paris Fashion Week 2024 has delivered an endless array of iconic moments. Let’s delve into some of the best looks that graced the city of lights this year.
Kylie Jenner’s Runway Debut at Coperni
Kylie Jenner, known for her commanding presence in the beauty and fashion world, stunned the fashion elite by making her runway debut at Coperni. A momentous occasion, Jenner’s debut represented not only her evolution from social media star to a bona fide fashion icon but also a turning point for Coperni itself. The designer duo Sébastien Meyer and Arnaud Vaillant have a reputation for blending technology with fashion, and Jenner’s involvement in their Paris show only underscored the futuristic vision of the brand. Jenner’s look on the catwalk, sleek and minimalistic, embodied the contemporary chic that Coperni is celebrated for.
The show itself was a reflection of Coperni’s modern approach, with bold silhouettes and a blend of sleek fabrics and technological elements. Jenner, walking confidently down the runway, became one of the most talked-about moments of Paris Fashion Week. Her transition from front row regular to runway star has only cemented her influence in the fashion world.
Cardi B’s Bold Alien Bangs at Mugler
Cardi B has consistently been a showstopper, and her appearance at the Mugler show was no different. With razor-sharp alien bangs and a futuristic ensemble, she pushed the boundaries of fashion, proving that she’s as daring as she is stylish. Mugler, known for avant-garde designs that challenge conventional ideas of beauty and femininity, found the perfect muse in Cardi B. Her boldness mirrored the brand’s ethos, and she did not disappoint.
In a sculptural Mugler creation that combined sharp tailoring with bold, exaggerated shapes, Cardi B exuded power and confidence. Her hairstyle, reminiscent of 1950s sci-fi glamour, added a surreal touch, making her one of the most talked-about figures of the week. Mugler’s signature aesthetics – high drama, sensuality, and architectural precision – came to life through Cardi’s fearless fashion choices.
Willem Dafoe’s Surprise Runway Appearance at Miu Miu
Miu Miu, always a fixture of Paris Fashion Week, stunned audiences when actor Willem Dafoe made a surprise appearance on the runway. Known more for his acting prowess than his fashion sense, Dafoe’s runway debut was a refreshing departure from the usual fashion week suspects. His presence highlighted Miu Miu’s ongoing commitment to gender-fluid fashion and their ethos of embracing unexpected muses.
Dressed in a sleek tailored suit that exuded sophistication, Dafoe brought an element of gravitas to the collection. Miu Miu’s playful yet refined approach to fashion was elevated by the actor’s enigmatic presence, making it a standout moment in an already star-studded week. His surprise appearance not only added intrigue to the show but also demonstrated how fashion and cinema can beautifully collide on the Paris runway.
Zendaya Dazzles at Louis Vuitton
Always a red-carpet favourite, Zendaya once again proved why she is one of the most influential fashion icons of her generation at the Louis Vuitton show. Her choice of a structured, futuristic ensemble from Nicolas Ghesquière’s collection showcased her ability to push fashion boundaries while maintaining her signature elegance. Zendaya’s impeccable sense of style was perfectly complemented by Louis Vuitton’s cutting-edge designs, blending the old-world craftsmanship of the house with a modern, forward-thinking twist.
Ghesquière’s Louis Vuitton collection this season leaned heavily into architectural designs and futuristic silhouettes, which Zendaya embodied effortlessly. As a brand ambassador, her appearance at the show was more than just a fashion moment; it was a testament to her ongoing influence in shaping fashion trends globally.
Cate Blanchett Stuns at Louis Vuitton
Another standout at the Louis Vuitton show was Cate Blanchett, whose statuesque presence never fails to impress. Dressed in a tailored, monochromatic ensemble, she epitomised the elegance and understated power that Louis Vuitton is celebrated for. Blanchett’s sophisticated look at Paris Fashion Week 2024 was a nod to timeless style, which she carried with effortless grace.
Known for her impeccable fashion choices, Blanchett’s look was the epitome of Louis Vuitton’s mastery of combining tradition with innovation. Her ability to convey confidence and poise through fashion continues to make her a muse for many designers, and her appearance at this year’s Paris Fashion Week was no exception.
Hilary Swank Walks the Runway at Miu Miu
Adding to the star-studded list of runway surprises, actress Hilary Swank made a striking appearance at Miu Miu, walking the runway with an air of confidence and sophistication. Swank, much like Willem Dafoe, is more accustomed to the silver screen than the catwalk, yet her presence was both commanding and chic.
Miu Miu has long been associated with breaking down barriers and defying expectations, and Swank’s appearance only heightened the show’s eclectic and inclusive vibe. Wearing a minimalist look that played with texture and structure, Swank embodied Miu Miu’s ability to balance simplicity with boldness, further highlighting the brand’s commitment to redefining beauty standards in fashion.
Anya Taylor-Joy and Natalie Portman Shine at Christian Dior
Two of Hollywood’s brightest stars, Anya Taylor-Joy and Natalie Portman, were front and centre at the Christian Dior show. Both actresses, known for their distinctive sense of style, brought their fashion A-game to one of Paris Fashion Week’s most anticipated shows. Taylor-Joy’s ethereal look featured classic Dior elements with a modern twist, while Portman’s sophisticated ensemble radiated timeless elegance.
The Dior show, with its focus on femininity, power, and subtle rebellion, was perfectly captured through these actresses’ looks. The duo’s presence at the event not only added star power but also exemplified the continuing allure of Dior’s legacy in the fashion world.
The Beckhams Make an Impact at Victoria Beckham
No Paris Fashion Week roundup would be complete without mentioning the Beckham family’s presence at the Victoria Beckham show. David Beckham, along with his children – Romeo, Cruz, and Harper – were spotted front and centre, supporting Victoria as she showcased her latest collection. Their appearance highlighted the blend of family, fashion, and celebrity that has become synonymous with the Beckham name.
Victoria Beckham’s collection itself was a testament to her growth as a designer, balancing sleek sophistication with elements of playful experimentation. Her ability to combine understated luxury with fashion-forward pieces made this one of the most talked-about shows of the season.
A Week to Remember in the City of Lights
Paris Fashion Week 2024 was a celebration of not only fashion but also the intersection of culture, celebrity, and artistry. With stars like Kylie Jenner, Cardi B, Willem Dafoe, and Hilary Swank gracing the runways, and style icons such as Zendaya and Cate Blanchett turning heads in the front rows, the week proved to be as dynamic and diverse as ever.
This season’s shows have once again affirmed Paris as the ultimate destination for anyone looking to witness fashion at its finest. The merging of high art and high fashion continues to be at the heart of Paris Fashion Week, and this year, the spotlight shone brighter than ever, thanks to the unforgettable presence of the world’s biggest stars.
