Haute Couture Autumn Winter 2024 in Paris amid French riots

The Haute Couture Autumn Winter 2024 season in Paris unfolded against the backdrop of riots triggered by the police killing of 17-year-old Nahel M. in the western suburbs of Paris. Schiaparelli opened with creative director Daniel Roseberry referencing Lucian Freud, Alberto Giacometti's Femme de Venise II, Yves Klein's blue, and the Venus de Milo. Iris van Herpen presented three-dimensional garments, while Charles de Vilmorin staged a 'battle between the horse and the swan' with totem masks and sculpture hats. Dior's Maria Grazia Chiuri showcased Greek goddess-inspired designs alongside an installation by Marta Roberti, executed by Chanakya International. Pierpaolo Piccioli at Valentino stripped away frills to seek the essence of couture. Chanel emphasized tradition with Mary Janes, tweed suits, and wrap coats. Balenciaga's Demna deconstructed dusty constructs, pairing historical couture with oversized footwear, sunglasses, jeans, a Maria Callas track without music, and a Joan of Arc-inspired wedding armor. Thom Browne debuted with a theatrical train of white tulle and organza, while Viktor & Rolf entangled models with bows and mannequins, turning fashion into theater. The season balanced escapism with social reality, as protests raged in Marseille and Paris.