Paris is synonymous with the word fashion, thanks to the many renowned and talented French designers. Models, celebrities, journalists and others flock to the capital to watch the most famous designers reveal their latest collections during Paris Fashion Week, the finale of the “Big 4” fashion weeks (more on this below). This article will dive into the history of fashion in the capital, as well as the history of Paris Fashion Week itself, including when it is held.
- Where it all began
- The first official Paris Fashion Week
- Paris Fashion Week today
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Where it all began
Although the official launch date of Paris Fashion Week was not so long ago, its history dates back more than a century. In the early 1850s, a designer named Charles Frederick Worth began to showcase several high-quality items together, in a bid to attract customers. This innovative idea set the scene for the future of fashion in Paris, and Worth played an instrumental role in developing haute couture, earning him the nickname of the “father of haute couture”.
At the beginning of the 20th century, more and more designers began to display their clothes publicly, which eventually led to the need to have more rules and regulations for haute couture. The Chambre syndicale de la haute couture became the authority to do this. In 1945, it set out a list of rules that haute couture houses had to adhere to, including the requirement to showcase a collection of at least 35 items. This essentially made a catwalk obligatory for designers, giving rise to the fashion shows we know and love today.
The first official Paris Fashion Week
In 1973, the Chambre syndicale de la haute couture evolved into the Federation française de la couture. This governing body held the first official Paris Fashion Week in the same year, in the famous Palace of Versailles. Since the 1945 collection requirement, designers in France and the United States were in constant competition to outdo each other. It all came to a head at this 1973 Paris fashion show.
It was actually a fundraiser to restore the palace but it quickly became a battle of the top designers out there, both American and French. Designers included Oscar de la Renta and Yves Saint Laurent. Make no mistake, this was no ordinary Paris fashion show, this was the battle of all battles. Liza Minelli performed, caravans led by rhinos were sent down the runway and there was even an appearance of a rocket ship. The event was dubbed “The Battle of Versailles” and it helped lay the foundation of what Paris Fashion Week would become.
Paris Fashion Week today
Paris Fashion Week is now part of the “Big 4”, in other words, the four main fashion weeks held in New York, London, Milan and Paris. The most popular question people ask is when is Paris Fashion Week? It is held biannually in spring and autumn, usually in February/March and September/October. It is always the finale of the “Big 4”’, which is why it’s so important. It rounds off each fashion season, marking its territory as the fashion capital of the world.
The Paris fashion show is split into three different categories: Men’s, haute couture and ready-to-wear. Given the strict rules created by the Chambre syndicale, there are few fashion houses that fall under the haute couture category. Plus, only the top designers can display their collections in Paris’ prime locations, such as the Grand Palais and the Carrousel du Louvre.
The agenda for the fashion week can be found online and fashionistas are spoiled for choice – on average, there are around 100 shows per week. Many of the events at the Paris fashion show are by invitation only, which is why we often see front-row seats filled with models and celebrities.
A dream for fashion lovers
For all our fashionistas out there, whether you’re looking to live in the fashion capital of the world like Emily in Paris, or wanting to stop by for a visit during Paris Fashion Week, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience. On top of all the catwalk events and parties, Paris also has many designer shops and boutiques to offer…all in all, it’s a fashion lover’s dream!
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Clara Avrillier
Clara Avrillier is a writer, linguist and content manager living in the South of France. She loves getting out in nature, doing sport, reading and playing music. She also works with many expats looking to move to France. Find out more on her website, ON IT Translations, or connect with her on LinkedIn.
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Paris Fashion Week criteria
In order to participate, the houses must fulfill the criteria that are set in place by the Chamber of Haute Couture. One criterion involves a requirement of 35 looks per year that need to include day and evening wear.
What happens at fashion week? ›
A fashion week is a week-long fashion industry event where fashion designers, brands, or "houses" display their latest collections in runway fashion shows to buyers and the media which influences upcoming fashion trends for the current and approaching seasons.
How many times a year is Paris Fashion Week? ›
Paris Fashion Week takes place twice yearly in the French capital, with a Spring/Summer edition and an Autumn/Winter edition. The dates are determined by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode.
Why is Paris Fashion Week the best? ›
Paris Fashion Week brought a symphony of streetwear and sophistication from younger brands. Here are some of the most impactful shows, filled with unforgettable details, from designers like Lutz Huelle, Marine Serre, Coperni, Noir Kei Ninomiya, Sacai, and more.
How much does it cost to go to Paris Fashion Week? ›
This year, we're offering Paris Fashion Week tickets by request. Prices start at $3,000 per person per show.
Do you get paid for Paris Fashion Week? ›
But, they made it clear from the beginning. Please note that they weren't the only show during Paris Fashion Week that didn't pay models. Nor photographers, videographers, and hair stylists and make-up artists were paid. You might think that's unfair and I get it.
What are the 4 major Fashion Week events? ›
The "Big Four" events are the Paris Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week,and London Fashion Week.
Are celebrities paid to attend Fashion Week? ›
Fyi your favorite celebs are paid to attend. Most people would die for the opportunity to sit in the front row of fashion shows. Still, unless you are a celeb, a person who works within fashion, or an influencer, the chances of that happening are slim.
Does Fashion Week have a dress code? ›
Thursday, you can expect to see people dressed edgy, Friday you can expect to see a family-friendly environment, and Saturday you can expect everyone decked out in their best outfits. Dress however makes you feel the most comfortable and empowered, while also being appropriate for each show.
Is Paris busier during Fashion Week? ›
Paris Fashion Week is an exceptionally busy time in the city, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. Take a cue from Emily in Paris and explore all that France has to offer by train.
An unmissable week during which fashion invades the City of Light with a flurry of ultra-trendy shows, presentations and events. And to make sure you don't miss out on any of the action, several shows can be viewed via livestream! Headlining every season: Louis Vuitton.
What does SS in fashion mean? ›
SS/FW. It's very common to see these abbreviations that stand for “Spring/Summer” and “Fall/Winter” respectively. They are the two main collections on the annual Fashion Week calendar. FW collections are typically presented between February – March, and SS ones are presented in September – October.
How do I get invited to Paris Fashion Week? ›
To get invited to Fashion Week, even without celebrity status, consider careers in fashion-related fields like being an influencer, fashion editor, stylist, or working in PR. Volunteering, if an option, can also help.
What do people do at Paris Fashion Week? ›
A time-honored and highly anticipated tradition in the creative world, Fashion Week is the time of year when journalists, celebrities, and various influencers gather from around the world to get a firsthand look at the trends that will come to define the next season's signature looks.
Do celebrities attend Paris Fashion Week? ›
Paris Fashion Week is being hosted in France to showcase the latest womenswear designs. Famous athletes and wealthy celebrities have attended so far in stunning fashion. Billionaire Kim Kardashian, for example, embraced the mob-wife style at a Margiela event.
Can anyone attend Paris Fashion Week? ›
Fashion shows are invitation only events, and invitations that are highly sought after. It's extremely difficult for someone without connections to get tickets to even secondary shows (I know because I have been to some).
How can I apply to Paris Fashion Week? ›
MENSWEAR AND WOMENSWEAR
To obtain the application process, please send your request to applicationpfw@fhcm.paris specyfying the season and the session (Menswear or Womenswear) you want to apply for in the “object line” of the email.
How do I get a Paris Fashion Week invite? ›
To get invited to Fashion Week, even without celebrity status, consider careers in fashion-related fields like being an influencer, fashion editor, stylist, or working in PR. Volunteering, if an option, can also help.
How do you get into Paris fashion school? ›
How to Apply
- Create your account and password.
- Fill in the online application form.
- Pay the course application fee.
- Upload the required documents.
- Submit your. application. Our admissions team will then get in touch for the next steps. FOLLOW US.
