Unveiling the Most Spectacular Moments of Paris Fashion Week: Spring-Summer 2024 Runways

The nine days in Paris were filled with emotion. Despite exhaustion from the previous fashion shows in New York, London, and Milan, and the unpredictable weather in each city, the energy remained high.

Paris was no exception. The occasional bursts of rain provided a welcome relief from the muggy heat. Many attendees used their invitations as makeshift fans, while others brought handheld electric ones to stay cool. These proved to be a wise accessory choice, especially during shows that ran late, some even close to an hour behind schedule. (To clarify, it wasn't just fashionably late.) To be fair, part of the delay was caused by the large gathering of fashion fans outside, creating chaos and endangering some in the crowd who risked being run over by oncoming traffic, particularly at the bigger shows.

This season, the fashion world eagerly awaited the Paris debut of several designers. Among them was Peter Do, who had recently showcased his first collection for Helmut Lang in New York. Also making their mark were Francesco Risso from Marni and Stefano Gallici, the newly appointed creative director for Ann Demeulemeester. Additionally, Helmut Lang made a grand return to the runway, led by the talented designer Peter Do.

"Paris is like a dream come true," exclaimed Do after the show. "I really wanted to create mature clothing that reflects my 32-year-old PD sensibility, and Paris feels like the perfect place for it to thrive."

However, there were also heartfelt goodbyes, with none more emotional than Sarah Burton's departure from Alexander McQueen. She had dedicated her entire career to the fashion house, working closely with Lee McQueen himself. Following his untimely passing, Burton took on the role of creative director. As a tribute, the show was adorned with Polish artist Magdalena Abakanowicz's stunning large-scale woven textiles. These captivating creations featured tightly wound coils, with delicate rope details trailing below. The collection showcased rose-printed silk dresses, intricate knitwear, and impeccable tailoring, including fitted blazers with cut-outs inspired by earlier McQueen designs.

After 27 years at the storied fashion house, Sarah Burton presented her last collection for Alexander McQueen.

Ik Aldama/Courtesy Alexander McQueen

Naomi Campbell closed the show to a standing ovation from showgoers, wiping tears from her face.

Ik Aldama/ Courtesy Alexander McQueen

Naomi Campbell gracefully closed the show wearing a dazzling silver beaded dress adorned with a heart-shaped breastplate. With tears streaming down her face, she received a standing ovation from the audience. As the show concluded, designer Burton expressed her gratitude, embracing and thanking influential figures like Anna Wintour and Tim Blanks who occupied the front row. In a touching gesture, Burton dedicated her final collection to her mentor, the late McQueen, and her dedicated team.

Shifting gears, Gabriela Hearst bid farewell to Chloe in a distinct manner. The atmosphere was electrifying, thanks to the presence of a samba school flown in from Brazil, whose live music had everyone in attendance on their feet, dancing and celebrating. Meanwhile, at Miu Miu, there was a heartfelt farewell for Fabio Zambernardi, who had been a part of the Prada Group for over four decades. Alongside him, Miuccia Prada emerged to take a final bow, marking the end of an era in Milan.

The front rows at Paris Fashion Week were particularly crowded this season, possibly due to the SAG-AFTRA strikes in Hollywood, which appeared to have freed up actors' schedules.

Famous personalities made appearances both on and off the runways during the fashion shows. The Mugler show saw the likes of Paris Hilton, Angela Bassett, and Fan Bingbing strutting their stuff. Meanwhile, Givenchy attracted attention with Jared Leto, Sigourney Weaver, and Cher grace the front row. Usher, who was in town for a series of sold-out concerts, turned heads at Marni in an eye-catching red and black polka dot ensemble. Additionally, he was spotted at Chanel sporting a custom tweed and pearl blazer, adorned with strands of lengthy pearls flowing down his chest. Accompanying Usher were the newly-appointed brand ambassador Riley Keough and Jennie Kim from Blackpink, among others.

Pamela Anderson attended fashion week shows sans makeup, as shown here at Vivienne Westwood. Her decision to go bare faced was widely praised.

JM Haedrich/SIPA/AP

Pamela Anderson opted for a natural look at the events she attended, embracing her clean complexion. In an Instagram post, she wrote, "There is beauty in accepting oneself, flaws and all, and embracing love." She exuded an ethereal vibe at Victoria Beckham's show, wearing a delicate floral dress. At Vivienne Westwood's show, she confidently sported an oversized wool trench coat with a matching slouchy hat from the brand.

Sofia Coppola's Archive showcases a collection of rare photographs featuring Kirsten Dunst, Emma Watson, and Elle Fanning.

Actor Issa Rae was seen at various fashion shows, including Francesco Risso's debut at Marni, Chloe, and Mugler. She turned heads in a stunning black body-con dress with ruched detailing. The front row at Miu Miu was filled with a diverse group of stylish celebrities, including Sydney Sweeney, Emma Chamberlain, Zaya Wade, and Mia Goth. It was an eclectic and on-trend lineup. At Louis Vuitton, Cate Blanchett made an appearance alongside Zendaya, who stole the show in a dramatic white double-zipper dress that quickly became a viral sensation.

The fashion shows were filled with sculptural fantasies, captivating the audience with their artistic creations.

Numerous runway shows this season showcased conceptual ensembles and wearable art, as designers skillfully integrated innovative materials and couture methods into their collections.

Jun Takahashi of Undercover created a sensation with three sculptural, softly illuminated looks that took center stage at the show, accompanied by live butterflies. The skirts of the dresses were extraordinary terrariums, adorned with genuine flowers.

Eerily romantic terrarium dresses featuring live butterflies at the Undercover show a standout moment of fashion innovation.

Francesco Risso incorporated tin cans into his collection at Marni, adding a touch of floral elegance. In a similar vein, Junya Watanabe drew inspiration from architecture, resulting in a mesmerizing collection featuring angular garments adorned with prism-like shapes protruding in all directions.

Mugler exhibited an exquisite display of dark drama, artfully fashioned from the most delicate fabrics. Casey Cadwallader, during a backstage interview, revealed his inspiration drawn from enchanting sea creatures such as jellyfish, octopi, and squid, known for their graceful movements. Models elegantly draped in flowing chiffon, reminiscent of seaweed, captivated the audience as they gracefully strutted the runway. Adorned with resin body plates, bustiers, tailored blazers, and hourglass bodycon dresses, they showcased a stunning combination of chic and sensuality.

Mugler's latest collection (modeled by Angela Bassett and other famous faces, among others) drew inspiration from sea creatures.

Victor Virgile/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images.

Rick Owens showcased veiled models adorned with face covers resembling beekeepers masks. Meanwhile, Zimmermann embraced a romantic aesthetic by incorporating lightweight fabrics, sending voluminous floral georgette and charmeuse dresses with delicate ruffled accents down the runway. Givenchy added an ethereal touch to their collection with tulle opera gloves, featherweight silk chiffon dresses, and double-layered silk skirts featuring beautiful floral patterns. The overall result was an elegant and refined showcase of fashion.

Eclectic runway venues

Fashion shows were held in various locations throughout the city. For instance, Sacai chose a car park space, while both Dries Van Noten and Y/Project opted for an abandoned post office, which required guests to climb three flights of uneven stairs.

Karl Lagerfeld's former apartment in the charming seventh arrondissement served as a dual venue. Both Marni and Victoria Beckham utilized the opulent space to showcase their distinct collections. On one hand, the setting was a perfect contrast to Marni's vibrant and lively designs. However, it also exuded grandeur when Victoria Beckham presented her minimalistic, dance-inspired collection this season. Even the untimely arrival of Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner, who kept everyone waiting for nearly an hour, did not diminish the event's charm.

Let's not forget the transformation of the construction site on the Champs Elysee into a runway venue for Louis Vuitton. Currently undergoing renovations by LVMH, the interior of the space was adorned with orange recyclable plastic for the show, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a hot air balloon.

Harnessing the Power of Performance

In today's saturated fashion industry, designers are constantly seeking innovative ways to differentiate themselves from the competition. Instead of conforming to the conventional runway format, they are opting for performances and stunts that captivate and astound. Issey Miyake, renowned for its exploration of movement, has once again pushed the boundaries in its latest runway show. This season, musicians skillfully imitated the sounds of chirping birds and other natural elements, creating an immersive experience. Dancers dressed in elegant black and white attire took center stage, artfully manipulating fabric that was suspended from the ceiling. As models graced the catwalk, they showcased a collection inspired by the brand's iconic 1998 collection, featuring stunningly ruched sheer fabrics that adorned figure-hugging dresses.

Valentino extended an invitation to FKA Twigs and a troupe of contemporary dancers to grace the stage in flesh-toned garments. Surprisingly, their performance turned out to be even more unforgettable than the showcased collection itself. Meanwhile, at Balenciaga, Demna orchestrated a remarkable transformation of the Cour du Dôme des Invalides into a grand theater, adorned with opulent red velvet drapes and a raised runway. Striding down this runway were individuals who had significantly influenced Demna, including his mother and renowned fashion journalist Cathy Horyn. One notable absentee, however, was Demna's younger brother Guram Gvasalia, who had originally co-founded Vetements with him but has now taken over the business on his own.

Former club kid and legendary trans model Amanda Lepore walked the velvet-lined runway for Balenciaga.

Courtesy Balenciaga

The collection's final bridal look was made from seven vintage wedding dresses cut, tiered and piled together anew.

Courtesy Balenciaga

And, well, an issue of sanitation

Possibly the most talked-about and attention-grabbing occurrence to emerge from Paris Fashion Week has nothing to do with fashion itself, but rather revolves around a rather unwelcome subject: bed bugs. These pests have been infesting the city, potentially causing disruptions during the runway events. Just as the fashion shows kicked off, reports of bed bug sightings in public transportation, residential areas, hotels, and even cinemas rapidly circulated throughout the city and beyond. Emmanuel Grégoire, the deputy mayor of Paris, grimly declared, "No one is immune."

Opinion: A quintessentially French reaction to the bedbug chaos in Paris.

Scroll down to view additional highlights from the recent shows and discover an unwanted Spring-Summer 2024 trend - an insect infestation. Attendees are surely hoping they won't have to bring these blood-sucking freeloaders back home with them.

Rick Owens' show was inspired by optimism, and this season he dissented from his often monochromatic taste to unveil a vibrant color palette of dusty roses and reds.

Victor Lochon/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images

Glenn Martens at Y/Project was on a mission to disrupt streamlined silhouettes and tailoring with heavy ruching and layering.

Courtesy Y Project

Iridescent taffeta helped achieve the "dark majesty" the designer was reaching for, according to his show notes.

Courtesy Y Project

Tweed was back at Chanel, with designer Virginie Viard fusing the fashion house's trademark fabric lace and sportswear for an updated take.

Bertrand Guay/AFP/Getty Images

The Spring-Summer 2024 collection was creative director Gabriela Hearst's last for Chloé.

Ik Aldama/picture-alliance/dpa/AP

Classic feminine lines were made in leather for an edgier finish.

Ik Aldama/picture-alliance/dpa/AP

{{img_placeholder_13}}

After the show, Hearst took to the runway to dance and rejoice with a 20 piece samba band.

Aitor Rosas Sune/WWD/Getty Images

{{img_placeholder_14}}

Victoria Beckham's latest collection was inspired by her formative years spent learning dance and ballet.

Isidore Montag/Gorunway.com/Courtesy Victoria Beckham

{{img_placeholder_15}}

Tailored detailsthe use of shoulder padding in a blazer, for examplerelated back to how dancers move and manipulate their bodies, according to the show notes.

Isidore Montag/Gorunway/Courtesy Victoria Beckham

{{img_placeholder_16}}

Kendall Jenner walked the show, as Beckham's husband David and children Romeo, Brooklyn and Harper looked on from the front row.

Peter White/Getty Images

{{img_placeholder_17}}

Chinese actor and red carpet mainstay Fan Bingbing took to the runway at Mugler.

Daniele Oberrauch/Gorunway.com/Courtesy Mugler

{{img_placeholder_18}}

As did Paris Hilton.

Daniele Oberrauch/Gorunway.com/Courtesy Mugler

{{img_placeholder_19}}

Y/Project staged their show in an abandoned post office in Paris.

Jonas Gustavsson/The Washington Post/Getty Images

{{img_placeholder_20}}

Marni presented its collection in the late Karl Lagerfeld's home, described in its show notes as "a quest for joy, through dedication."

Courtesy Marni

{{img_placeholder_21}}

The label's new creative director Francesco Risso expertly merged the commercial with the artisanal.

Courtesy Marni

{{img_placeholder_22}}

Live music and an installation of pleated pieces of washi paper, designed to float freely in the air, served as an engaging, multi-sensory backdrop for the Issey Miyake show.

Courtesy Issey Miyake

{{img_placeholder_23}}

According to Isabel Marant's show notes, there was a "mystical and celestial dimension to this new season," captured in the use of silver and gold.

Filippo Fior/Gorunway.com/Courtesy Isabel Marant

{{img_placeholder_24}}

At Undercover, three looks reproduced portraits from designer Jun Takahashi's recent exhibition of oil paintings in delicate ruffles.

Victor Virgile/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images

{{img_placeholder_25}}

Stefano Gallici showed his first collection for storied Belgian fashion house Ann Demeulemeester, in keeping with its edgy, understated aesthetic.

Valerio Mezzanotti/Courtesy Ann Valerio Mezzanotti

{{img_placeholder_26}}

Junya Watanabe drew inspiration from architrcture this season, presenting a series of angular garments with jutting sharp edges.

Peter White/Getty Images

{{img_placeholder_27}}

The accessory styling on the Miu Miu runway was a delightful sight. The top handle bags from the label were creatively packed with an effortless sense of chic. They overflowed with shoes, additional clothing pieces, key rings, and other items, reminiscent of the iconic style of Jane Birkin.

Julien De Rosa/AFP/Getty Images

{{img_placeholder_28}}

In luxe, slouchy sportswear separates, Gigi Hadid walked Miu Miu's runway.

Ik Aldama/picture-alliance/dpa/AP

{{img_placeholder_29}}

Miu Miu also cast Caliee Spaeny, the star of upcoming film "Priscilla."

Ik Aldama/picture-alliance/dpa/AP

{{img_placeholder_30}}

Dries Van Noten's collection featured sporty finishes, adding a touch of glamour. Full-length collared jackets were created using rugby shirts, and heels were always paired with ankle socks.

{{img_placeholder_31}}

The most recent collection from Louis Vuitton drew inspiration from the exhilaration of exploring new destinations, a motif that was prominently portrayed in this season's accessories. One particular bag captured attention with its design resembling the iconic Arc de Triomphe, while other pieces evoked nostalgia with their reminiscent vintage luggage stickers.

Ik Aldama/picture-alliance/dpa/AP

{{img_placeholder_32}}

The location was covered in orange recyclable plastic to give the ambiance of a hot air balloon.

Ik Aldama/picture-alliance/dpa/AP

{{img_placeholder_33}}

Highly structured corsets contrasted with ballooning, light-weight skirts.

Giovanni Giannoni/Lous Vuitton