PARIS — Kenzo experienced a dynamic shift at Paris Fashion Week on Friday, moving away from its traditional jungle prints to embrace a more edgy, punk-inspired aesthetic. The latest collection showcased sharp tailoring, underground vibes, and a hint of British cheek.
In what was Kenzo’s first exclusive women’s show in eight years, the LVMH-owned brand did not shy away from rebellion. The runway displayed shawl-collared tuxedo jackets that seamlessly blended into kimono shapes, while harem pants were worn low with a casual drape. Lingerie cheekily appeared just above waistbands, adding to the subversive feel. The soundtrack, featuring anthems from the Sex Pistols, Patti Smith, and Blondie, projected an aura more akin to East London’s edgy charm than the often understated sophistication of Paris.
With creative director Nigo not present for the event, the responsibility fell to his new womenswear studio, headed by Givenchy veteran Joshua A. Bullen. This collection integrated the structured elegance of Savile Row with deconstructed streetwear, adding unconventional details that signal a new path forward for the brand. Attendees left with a playful memento—metallic envelopes containing T-shirts and crayons, adorned with Kenzo’s latest emblem: a wide-eyed rabbit poised for action.
At Kenzo, the interplay between history and modernity isn’t simply a theme to explore; it’s an expression meant to be boldly worn.
