Cardi B made a striking appearance at the Rabanne show on Wednesday afternoon in Paris, showcasing the undeniable allure of the Puig-owned brand, which has recently captured Hollywood’s attention. Over the past few months, Rabanne has delivered numerous red carpet triumphs. Notable moments include Anya Taylor-Joy’s captivating choice of the iconic 1996 spiky dress at the Australian premiere of “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” and the medieval chainmail ensemble worn by Chappell Roan at the MTV VMAs, where she received her Best New Artist award. These moments underscore the brand’s ascent and relevance in the fashion landscape.
Creative director Julien Dossena expressed his admiration for Cardi B, stating, “I love what she’s doing and what she represents.” His enthusiasm extends beyond celebrity partnerships; Dossena is keen on creating a more laid-back approach for women’s fashion. His latest spring collection shone brightly, displaying an innovative vision at a time when many designers have retreated to familiar, historical styles. This fresh perspective is exactly what the fashion industry craved.
Dossena’s success lies in his ability to align with the current demand for versatile classics that combine sexiness and youthfulness. He breathes new life into everyday wear, such as boxer shorts, by layering them in playful combinations of masculine and feminine elements. The collection showcased icy pastels, vibrant sparkles, and an abundance of leg, creating an exhilarating visual experience.
Blazers were reimagined in a fresh way, neatly gathered at the back, resembling parkas layered over men’s striped shirts and shorts or sheer, barely-there skirts. Lingerie-inspired pieces also received a glamorous update, coated in reflective foil that pays homage to the brand’s creative history of utilizing unconventional materials. Mariner-striped T-shirts— an ubiquitous wardrobe staple— were transformed into charming pieces with embroidered lace overlays knotted at the hip and styled over bloomer shorts, destined to be favored in fashion editorials. Additionally, T-shirts sliced open at the back worn over parachute nylon bubble skirts exuded a contemporary flair.
Knitwear surfaced as another highlight of the collection, featuring a black floral cardigan uniquely open and attached at the shoulders to a matching crewneck for a modern twist. This innovative styling offered a fresh take on traditional knitwear, inviting wearers to explore new aesthetic possibilities.
The collection also showcased stunning, jingly-jangly dresses, including one adorned with flakes of gold leaf that scattered beautifully with each step of the model— a truly fabulous visual delight. This golden look pays tribute to the 1968 creation known as the “most expensive dress in the world,” designed by Paco Rabanne for Francoise Hardy. In a clever nod to this iconic piece, the brand introduced a bag that they are promoting as the most expensive bag in the world. Yet, Dossena did not merely rest on the established accolades of the brand; he presented light and ethereal dresses crafted from foiled layers of silk organza, exemplifying Rabanne’s evolving approach to design. Meanwhile, a flowing silver apron dress cut daringly low to reveal the hips gave a contemporary, sensuous twist to the house’s signature mesh.
Dossena reflected on the collection’s direction: “It’s always a progression,” highlighting the continual evolution in fashion and celebrating a forward-looking perspective that promises to inspire future designs.
