Paris Men’s Fashion Week: Fashion gets a political makeover

Paris Men’s Fashion Week: A Fusion of Style and Social Commentary

Amidst the backdrop of global political shifts and social change, Paris Men’s Fashion Week emerged as more than just a showcase of apparel; it became a platform for designers to voice their perspectives on inclusivity, freedom, and unity. The event, coinciding with significant political events, demonstrated how fashion can transcend mere aesthetics to address contemporary issues. Designers used their collections to challenge norms and inspire, proving that clothing can be both a means of escape and a tool for social commentary.

Reimagining Workwear: Function Meets Fashion

The Fall-Winter 2025 collections saw a resurgence of workwear, reinterpreted for modern wardrobes. Designers like Junya Watanabe drew inspiration from forestry attire, while Louis Vuitton’s collaboration with Nigo merged workwear practicality with sportswear dynamism. These designs not only revisited the hipster aesthetics of the past but also emphasized functionality and durability, appealing to a generation valuing both sustainability and style. The use of denim, plaid, and leather crafted a narrative of resilience and adaptability.

Politics and Identity: Fashion as Protest

Willy Chavarria’s collection, marking his label’s tenth anniversary, stood out with its bold statement on human dignity and equality. Similarly, EgonLab’s gender-fluid designs challenged traditional masculinity, urging minority unity. Rei Kawakubo’s “To Hell With War” collection at Comme des Garçons Homme Plus used army motifs juxtaposed with flowers, evoking the 1960s peace movement. These designers transformed runway into rally, using their art to advocate for justice and equality in turbulent times.

Inspiration from Nature and History

Chitose Abe of Sacai found inspiration in Maurice Sendak’s “Where the Wild Things Are,” crafting cocoon-shaped knitwear that symbolized living untamed. Her Carhartt collaboration underscored freedom and nature’s embrace. Charles Jeffrey Loverboy drew from Berlin’s Weimar Cabarets, blending nightlife excess with a call for unity against rigid gender norms. These collections wove narratives from literature and history, offering a lens to view contemporary life through creative expression.

Craftsmanship and Innovation: Pushing Boundaries

Designers like Dior and Bianca Saunders explored textual and structural innovation. Dior revisited the H-line, blending controversial silhouettes with Kubrick-esque drama. Saunders examined movement constraints through contorted designs. Rick Owens, known for his avant-garde approach, experimented with materials and shapes, challenging conventional fashion norms. These collections highlighted the artistry and experimentation that define high fashion, proving that craftsmanship knows no bounds.

Fashion’s Broader Impact: Beyond the Runway

Fashion Week revealed its depth beyond the runway, becoming a mirror of societal struggles and aspirations. Through themes of unity, resilience, and reimagined identity, designers demonstrated that fashion is a powerful medium for change. While trends emerged, the week’s true essence lay in its ability to provoke thought and inspire action, proving that clothing can be both art and activism—a testament to its enduring relevance in our changing world.