The Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2023 shows have come to a close, and there was no shortage of inspiration on the catwalks. Keep clicking to see the week’s most talked-about trends — and prepare to be inspired.
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Go Wild
Leopard, zebra, and tiger-print pieces are considered timeless. But this couture week, many designers nixed motifs and showed actual realistic-looking animals. Case in point: Schiaparelli shocked the fashion world with its lion head-bedecked gown, while Chanel opted for an adorable bedazzled pup on a jacket. Estrop/Getty Images Entertainment
Gloves Galore
Attending a swanky ball? Dial up the drama with a pair of luxe long gloves. In Paris, fashion powerhouses like Fendi, Valentino, and Chanel all gave the accessory their seal of approval. Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho
So Surreal
Between Victor & Rolf’s topsy-turvy gowns — which were purposefully rotated at unnatural angles — and Schiaparelli’s gold-painted models, double take-worthy looks with a theme this week. (The memes about Victor & Rolf’s aforementioned show are also laugh-out-loud funny.) Peter White/Getty Images Entertainment
Sheer Perfection
See-through styles were everywhere last year, and are proving to be one of 2023’s most sought-after looks as well. Designers exhibited a wide range of unique sheer pieces on the catwalks, from Valentino’s playful ruffles to Fendi’s flowy cape. Marc Piasecki/WireImage
Blooming Good
Florals for couture? Groundbreaking — and no, that’s not sarcasm. The abstract, 3D-looking flower accents displayed by the likes of Armani Prive and Valentino are like wearable works of art. Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Corbis Entertainment
Strong Shoulders
Larger-than-life shoulders dominated the runways this season. Both Schiaparelli and Mugler demonstrated the look on outerwear, while Ronald van der Kemp went the dress route. Estrop/Getty Images Entertainment
Made-You-Look Metallic
Fashion’s current obsession with all things metallic was evident in Paris, where labels including Dior, Paco Rabanne, and Giambattista Valli offered their own spin on the eye-catching finish. And while the look might only feel appropriate for special occasions, you can wear high-shine boots virtually anywhere.Dior
Cloak’s On You
If you’ve contemplated adding a cape to your outerwear collection — this is your sign to do so. According to heavy hitters like Dior, Jean Paul Gaultier, and George Hobeika, the look is guaranteed to make a splash over the next few months. Jean Paul Gaultier
Pants: Optional
Always in a hurry to get out the door? Good news: It’s now more than OK to skip your bottoms (well, in the fashion world, at least). Try chic undies à la Mugler, or opt for a sleek bodysuit like the iterations shown at Dior.Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Corbis Entertainment/
Spike Up
Long, pointy embellishments may not be the most practical, but they sure make a statement. Designers like Jean Paul Gaultier and George Hobeika incorporated this sharp style in their collections. Proceed with the up-and-coming trend with caution. Jean Paul Gaultier