The SS23 fashion season was one packed with ultra-glamorous shows, big-name models, super-glitzy FROWs and many a viral moment (Bella Hadid being spray-painted, anyone?) – but there was one thing missing: Jacquemus.
The French brand conceived by 32-year-old Simone Porte Jacquemus has taken the fashion world by storm in recent years, with its micro-mini Chiquito handbags, XXL straw hats, penchant for sultry 'naked' dressing and spectacular shows held everywhere from fields of lavender to Hawaiian beaches. It's a brand that truly forges its own path – hence why Jacquemus decided to show his much-anticipated SS23 collection off-calendar, some three months after the end of fashion week.
Luckily, it was well worth the wait. Earlier today, Jacquemus' latest 'Le Raphia' collection was unveiled just outside Paris before a stellar FROW that included the likes of Iris Law, Emma Chamberlain, Amina Muaddi, Camille Charrière and Pamela Anderson – who looked iconic as ever in a semi-transparent, raffia-strewn all-white look for the occasion.
And if both Anderson's look and the collection name itself weren't enough to give the game away, the entire Jacquemus SS23 show was themed around raffia, from the accessories to the setting itself. Think flower-shaped statement earrings, gigantic wide-brim hats and handbags all fashioned from the natural fibre, as well as clothes featuring fabulous fringing and details – all while a stream of 'raffia rain' fell from the ceiling and promptly covered guests, models and runway alike.
The aesthetic? The brand's signature elevated summertime Provençal chic with a serious dose of sexy, courtesy of daring cut-outs, jackets worn with nothing underneath and hemlines tiny enough to allow model Vittoria Ceretti's bare bum-cheeks to fully steal the show. Next summer couldn't possibly come any sooner...
