Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2025-2026

Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2025-2026, held from March 3 to 11, 2025, showcased a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation, solidifying Paris’s status as a global fashion epicenter.

Event Overview

The week featured 72 runway shows and 37 presentations, highlighting both established fashion houses and emerging designers.  Venues across Paris, including the Palais de Tokyo, hosted these events, providing a platform for designers to present their latest collections.

Black Designers at the Forefront

This season marked a significant milestone with increased representation of Black designers. Notably, Torishéju Dumi, a British-Nigerian-Brazilian designer, presented her collection titled “Fire on the Mountain.” The show was opened by Naomi Campbell and closed by Paloma Elsesser, drawing widespread acclaim for its innovative designs.

Emerging Models Making Waves

The runway spotlighted 13 breakout models who captivated audiences with their distinctive presence. Libby Taverner opened for Chloé, Claire Biegalski closed for McQueen, Karyna Maziar fronted Valentino’s spring campaign, and Xiaohan Chen became a face of Miu Miu. These models are shaping the creative visions of major fashion houses and are poised to become prominent figures in future seasons.

Notable Themes and Trends

Designers responded to global challenges with collections reflecting resilience and adaptability. Haider Ackermann’s debut for Tom Ford and Sarah Burton’s collection for Givenchy received rave reviews. Balenciaga’s maze-like runway symbolized life’s complex choices, while Valentino’s designs created illusions amidst challenging times. Faux fur dominated the season, though real vintage fur also appeared, indicating a nuanced approach to sustainability.

Industry Shifts

Significant industry changes coincided with Fashion Week. Demna stepped down from Balenciaga to become Gucci’s new artistic director, aiming to revitalize the brand amidst declining sales. His appointment follows the dismissal of Sabato de Sarno, whose strategy failed to resonate with consumers.

Conclusion

Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2025-2026 celebrated diversity, innovation, and resilience, reflecting the industry’s response to contemporary challenges. The prominence of Black designers and models, alongside significant industry shifts, highlighted fashion’s evolving landscape.