In a dazzling display of fashion, celebrity, and athleticism, Vogue World transformed Paris's historic Place Vendôme into a spectacular runway on June 23, 2024. The event, celebrating a century of French fashion, brought together an impressive array of stars, supermodels, and sports figures, creating a unique fusion of style and athleticism just a month before Paris hosts the Olympic Games.
The show's concept was as innovative as it was ambitious. Each decade of fashion, from the 1920s to the present day, was presented against the backdrop of a different sport. This clever juxtaposition not only highlighted the evolution of fashion over the past 100 years but also paid homage to the upcoming Olympic Games. The result was a visually stunning and culturally rich spectacle that captivated both the live audience and viewers around the world.
More than 151 models and 188 athletes participated in the event, creating a diverse and dynamic cast that reflected the global influence of French fashion. Among the notable participants were singers Sabrina Carpenter and FKA Twigs, supermodels Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid, and sports legend Serena Williams. Each brought their unique flair to the runway, embodying different eras and styles of French fashion.
One of the most memorable moments came when Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid, dressed in Hermès, rode across the square on horseback. This dramatic entrance not only showcased the brand's equestrian heritage but also added an element of surprise and excitement to the show. Similarly, Sabrina Carpenter's appearance in retro swimwear and Serena Williams' walk in custom Off-White demonstrated the range and versatility of French fashion through the decades.
The event wasn't limited to just fashion and sports. Musical performances added another layer of entertainment to the spectacle. French singer Aya Nakamura took to the stage, her performance adding a contemporary soundtrack to the historical fashion journey. The inclusion of music stars like Bad Bunny further emphasized the global appeal and influence of French fashion and culture.
Vogue editor Anna Wintour, the mastermind behind the event, watched from the front row alongside Louis Vuitton creative director Pharrell Williams. Their presence, along with numerous other VIPs, underscored the significance of the event in the fashion world. The show not only celebrated the past century of French fashion but also looked forward, hinting at the industry's future directions and influences.
The choice of Place Vendôme as the venue was particularly significant. This iconic Parisian square, known for its luxury boutiques and historical importance, provided a fitting backdrop for the celebration of French fashion. The transformation of this grand space into a runway symbolized the way fashion has always been an integral part of Parisian culture and identity, seamlessly blending the old with the new, the traditional with the avant-garde.
