PFW SS25: Global Fashion Collective

Image: Kiera Simpson (@kiers)

Global Fashion Collective

Launched in October 2017, GFC provides a platform to highlight new, emerging, and established designers. Producing runway shows specifically, GFC is a repeat feature of London, New York, Tokyo, Milan, Paris, and Vancouver fashion weeks. This SS25’ season in Paris presented an eclectic group of designers wowing attendees with nuanced and varied creations. The runway presented a fusion of aesthetics which ranged from avant-garde to delicate minimalism. We attended the second show on September 25th, taking place at 16.00 at La Maison des Métallos in Paris.

Image: Kiera Simpson (@kiers)

SABOKBAR

Debuting at Paris fashion week, SABKOBAR owned the runway with a quiet decadence. Audience members were implored to interrogate their relationship with their physical body and the spiritual realm. Complex interweaving layers, geometric shapes, and mesh panelling circumvented the body. Sheer elements allowed sight into under layers which ebbed and flowed with the body’s natural movements. Upon initial viewing, one may assume these garments to be quite subtle, rather they were anything but. Detailed stitching and asymmetrical hemlines show the viewer new pathways to traverse stylistically. These works are detail oriented and notably contemplative. Rightly so as the designer has been fine-tuning them for nearly a decade ahead of their debut. The brand is known for its focus on symbolism and primordial languages via garment shape, material, and structure. 

Image: Kiera Simpson (@kiers)

Jardin des Costumes

Hushed gasps overtook the audience as Jardin des Costumes delicately bounced past FROW members. This awe-striking debut collection is entitled, Bal de Fluers and represents a fusion of haute couture and ballet costume design. Akiko Kimura is responsible for these shockingly beautiful designs, each representing twelve different flowers. Floral inspirations included, rose, lily of the valley, cornflower, cherry and plum blossoms. Interwoven into the garments, themes of the natural world resonated with each look. The four elements; sunlight, water, air, and soil were imbued throughout the collection. Kimura incorporated traditional Japanese craftsmanship into the collection. Curation included hand-pressed fabrics and intricate wood-carved props by Made Woodworks. The collection nods to Kimura’s 42 years in the world of ballet. This collection presents new pathways for collaboration between choreographers and artists as the works blend modern design with culturally relevant construction. 

Image: Kiera Simpson (@kiers)

Valienne

Bringing modern couture to the stage, an air of childlike wonder and whimsy captured the audience. The works consisted of luxe, undulating fabrics. Lace was mixed with mesh, tulle, and structured bodices met flared hemlines on extravagant dresses. A primarily limited colour palette of cream, white, and eggshell was interrupted by a stark contrast of black mesh and lace. The works transported the viewer into a fairytale-like world of childhood memory, nodding to vintage porcelain dolls. Each piece was distinctly different from the next, highlighting the brand’s affinity for individuality by way of ethereal silhouettes. Evoking a dream-like landscape. Romantic ruffles appeared amongst tulle and playful 3D florals, playing on joyful elegance. Designer Vivi began her journey in Sapporo, Japan in 2008. The collection is presented as a nod to her previous experience with diverse projects which range from theatrical productions to corporate collaborations. 

Image: Kiera Simpson (@kiers)

David Layer Toyko 

This menswear collection blended traditional Japanese prints, patterns, and themes with western tailoring. Playful choices were made with the colour and theme of each work. A story of Japanese heritage was told by way of waist coats, tailored jackets, straight-leg trousers, and bicolour suits. The brand was founded by brothers Tomohiko and Akihiro Banno, bringing their signature “Made in Japan” craftsmanship to an international stage at Paris Fashion Week SS25’.