Courted By Couture
From Runways To Re-Sees, How Luxury Labels Pull Out All The Stops For Fashion Week.
In a word, my world is captivating. Not only because I am a passionate traveler who calls Monaco home but because I am what is known as a fashion insider. I’m thrilled to embark on a new journey as a columnist for The Monegasque™ and share my exclusive takes and tales on the glam world of fashion, from runways to re-sees and all the parties in between. As the creative mind behind the label Psycho and an industry insider, I started the year with a flurry of fashion weeks, providing plenty of food for thought. My whirlwind journey began at the Four Seasons Milan, where a package from Versace was waiting, complete with fragrant flowers and invitations to shows and dinners.
On the first evening, clients, influencers, and fashionistas like me mingled at Versace’s revered Via Gesù mansion; and the fashion house treated VIPs to a unique cultural experience—a guided tour of the world-renowned La Scala opera house. The following day I immersed myself in the 90s-inspired aesthetic of the Versace show, marveling at the clever fusion of grunge with the Italian brand’s signature femininity and sensuality. My fashion odyssey continued with the Italian chic of Dolce & Gabbana, whose “Tuxedo” collection showcased at the Metropole, pairing signature black suits with the season’s trend of lace stockings. This was followed by a lavish dinner for the chosen few, me included.
After Milan, the fashion world headed to Paris where the city beckoned with the special magic of Fashion Week. From historic landmarks to hotspots, the City of Light came alive with energy. Post-shows, fashion enthusiasts from around the globe flocked to Hôtel Costes, L’Avenue and Girafe to catch up with old friends, make new acquaintances or talk business in a festive ambiance. Paris Fashion Week in February and March was particularly memorable for me, thanks to the Balenciaga show. It was my first show and the atmosphere was unlike any other. As a fan of contemporary art, I have always admired how their creative director Demna Gvasalia incorporates art into fashion, creating simple yet iconic pieces with incredible charisma.
The invitation I received came in a box, a vintage souvenir for each Balenciaga client from eBay, reflecting the trending interest in vintage and historically significant items. The invitation was written on the receipt, along with a message from Gvasalia. There was no address on the invitation; I was chauffeured to the venue. The show was attended by many celebrities, with seating arranged in two rows in a rectangular building adorned with floor-to-ceiling LED panels resembling a true art performance. Gvasalia’s unconventional approach was evident as the show began with a Balenciaga couture dress, followed by evening wear and then the main collection. Sitting amongst the stylish and vibrant crowd, I was particularly impressed by the faux-fur pieces. The evening ended with an avant-garde dinner at Palais de Tokyo, where I made many new connections within the fashion world. The next day was a visit to Balenciaga at the Kering headquarters for a re-see and an appointment at the couture boutique, the only one in the world where you can purchase items from the couture collection.
My fashion frenzy culminated with the Chanel show, traditionally held on the last day of Fashion Week, and I was invited by the manager of a Monaco boutique, Juliette Bove. A cocktail party at the National Institute of Art History Library (INHA) kicked off the first night with invitees immersing themselves in the brand’s history by wearing Chanel from different collections and epochs. The next morning, the runway was dedicated to Deauville, with screens showcasing a short film featuring Brad Pitt and Penelope Cruz. The iconic French fashion house remains one of my favorite labels as they create timeless pieces that have inspired women for decades.
The key trends of the women’s Fall/Winter 2024–2025 collections were evident in both Milan and Paris. Each label presented its interpretation of these trends, tailoring them to fit their own aesthetic. For instance, both Chanel and Gucci showcased combinations of lace dresses with turtlenecks; however, Chanel’s take proved to be more wearable and versatile. Among the season’s takeaways are vintage pieces, mixing silver and gold tones, and patent textures.
At the end of the week, here’s what I learned: true style and luxury aren’t always tied to the latest trends. They can serve as a wellspring of inspiration, helping to cultivate our own fashion awareness, but there’s no need to constantly chase after them. Ultimately, our individuality lies in our ability to express ourselves through our clothes.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Monegasque™.
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