Paula Cánovas del Vas sweeps Paris with her avant-garde fashion, Paloma Wool introduces sexy comfort

The vibrancy of Spanish creativity illuminated the bustling Paris Fashion Week for Fall/Winter 2024, showcasing experimentation, vibrant hues, sustainable materials and luxurious comfort. Paloma Wool presented a collection that exuded a playful and youthful sensuality, while Paula Cánovas del Vas challenged industry norms, daring to confront male dominance within the sector.

Paula Cánovas del Vas embraces realism in fashion

As a semi-finalist for the prestigious 2022 LVMH Prize, Paula Cánovas del Vas continues to push the boundaries of experimentation in fashion. Although she maintains the whimsical charm that defines her aesthetic, she has now set her sights on portraying everyday realism through her unique lens. Presenting her latest collection at the Cervantes Institute in Paris this Monday, Cánovas del Vas orchestrated a captivating performance starring the NR Fight women's club in Paris, showcasing martial arts in an arena typically dominated by men.

Inspired by the retro aesthetic of sports and academia, Cánovas del Vas adorned its collection with a vibrant palette of electric blue, lime green, black, pink and red. Each ensemble exuded an eccentric yet confident demeanor, thanks to the meticulous layering of textures, patterns and colors.

Tulle fabric took center stage, cleverly draped in gathered layers and fashioned into voluminous peplums and structured bodices. Contrasting stripes and geometric motifs adorned skirts and leotards, giving a dynamic energy to the designs. Completing the looks were a series of sumptuous mohair and merino wool sweaters, complemented by bomber jackets, along with the designer's signature split-toe “Diablo” ballet flats and boot counterpart. Adding a touch of luxury, faux fur details adorned pants, hats and bracelets, exuding sophistication with every detail.

Cánovas del Vas differentiates itself by incorporating fabric scraps into its designs, a hallmark of its commitment to sustainability. However, he emphasizes that sustainability extends beyond materials, noting the importance of responsible practices throughout the design process.

“For us, sustainability is not just about using leftover materials, but about approaching design with a sense of purpose and care,” explained the Murcian designer in an exclusive interview with FashionNetwork.com. “It's about creating garments that not only minimize environmental impact but also empower the people involved in their creation.”

Paloma Wool's fiery winter showcase

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The Spanish fashion house Paloma Wool, directed by Barcelona designer Paloma Lanna, took center stage in its fourth show in Paris. Held in an elegant venue located behind the iconic Pantheon in Paris's 5th arrondissement, the event exuded an innate joy and an aura of supreme comfort, as diaphanous fabrics played tantalizingly with feminine silhouettes.

While the runway featured some male models sporting understated ensembles, it was the women who stole the show, effortlessly setting the pace in Paloma Wool's signature knitwear. Adorned with strapless blouses and graceful, flowing skirts that accentuated their curves, they moved with an undeniable sense of sensuality. In particular, the asymmetrical necklines coyly exposed a single shoulder, adding an element of appeal to the collection. The collection's color palette included shades of navy, grey, olive green and beige, while sumptuous velvet and lustrous silk enhanced the knitwear offering.

However, it was the see-through outfits made of sheer fabrics that really captivated the audience. Whether ethereal chiffon skirts of varying lengths, lightweight hooded sweaters, or crop tops with sleek, long sleeves, each piece hinted at a subtle sensuality, with delicate bralettes peeking through minimalist cutouts.

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Without a doubt, the most daring ensemble of the collection was a stunning silver “nude dress” made of knit fabric, which delicately hugged the contours of the body down to the ankles. This captivating garment featured long sleeves and cuffs, with the hem trimmed in a rich dark gray hue, offering a luxurious and soft feel to the touch. Although adorned with scattered sequins delicately interspersed throughout the dress's openwork, it boldly showcased the model's bare chest, juxtaposed against a striking black undergarment, creating a fascinating contrast that epitomized the collection's bold aesthetic.