At Théâtre de l’Odéon, @waltervanbeirendonckofficial presented “Wink with Starry Eyes,” a reflection that is both nostalgic and optimistic regarding childhood recollections. Pixelated family portraits, vibrant color palettes, and exaggerated silhouettes coalesced into a cohesive wearable art form. The ensemble was further enhanced by the inclusion of oversized pockets, ballooned cuffs, and bowler hats designed by Stephen Jones, which contributed to the ethereal aesthetic.
“When everything turns dark,” @waltervanbeirendonckofficial writes, “I plucked stars out of the sky, glued them onto my eye-sockets, and went on a time-warping, postmodern pilgrimage.”
This season exemplified a remarkable convergence of influences, drawing inspiration from the artistry of coat painting, the historical skeleton suits of the 18th century, the captivating intellect of Anna Piaggi, and the innovative drama inherent in digital distortion. It served as an exquisite masterclass in contrast and juxtaposition. Envision oversized silhouettes, ethereal dream-like collars, pixelated floral patterns, and bowler hats adorned with intricately crafted paper flowers.
A tangle of puckering, smocking, and shocking stitched together with childhood memories, fabric artisanship, and a “brutality finessed.”
“If you are sad and wondering: Where Have All The Flowers Gone? Look back. Look below. Look forward,” Van Beirendonck exclaims.
The 2026 Spring/Summer Paris Fashion Week has formally commenced. Beneath the gentle embrace of the summer sun in France, Paris once again shines as a prominent center of art and fashion. Following the vibrant energy established in Milan, Paris now articulates a more subdued and ethereal dialect of style.
Part 1 of Paris Fashion Week favored subtlety rather than intensity and prioritized space over volume. Rather than pursuing overarching trends, the day was characterized by the unique perspectives of each designer. What narratives shall tomorrow unveil? We remain committed to delivering the vibrancy of Paris, as bright and vivid as the summer sunlight.
From the sunny fields he winked at us, softly swaying, with starry eyes.
This is the less impractical, less provocative apparel WVB has made in recent years.