London-based designer Grace Wales Bonner showcased her Fall 2023 collection at her debut runway show in Paris, held at the iconic Place Vendôme, known for being the epicenter of luxury. The event, which took place at the 17th-century Hôtel d’Évreux, featured a coed lineup inspired by James Baldwin, Josephine Baker, and the Maharaja of Indore, three figures who left a lasting impact on Paris’ cultural scene.
“Thinking about what Paris as a place gave them license to do and express. This idea of freedom of self-expression, to define yourself.” Paris, she speculated, “may create space to have more license to be expressive.”
The collection showcased a blend of elegant tailoring and sportswear-inspired elements, like a Jamaican soccer jersey paired with tuxedo pants and snakeskin boots. Additionally, her ongoing collaboration with adidas Originals was highlighted through a range of new sneakers.
Wales Bonner’s designs bring an Afro-Atlantic spirit to European luxury, creating a sense of hybridity and a meeting point between cultures and places.
The designer, known for her love of craftsmanship, has won multiple awards, including the LVMH Prize in 2016. She aims to solidify the position of her brand within the luxury market and recently introduced footwear and jewelry to her women’s collection. This show was a step towards her goal of establishing a presence in the highly competitive luxury fashion scene in Paris.
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Click on this link to read this article in French version.