Models walked down the catwalk with shampoo still foaming in their hair at today’s Maison Margiela haute couture show in Paris.
One of John Galliano’s main themes for the collection was that of dressing in haste, and there were hints of it even before the show started, as the catwalk circled rows of mirrored make-up tables, complete with stage lights, that were strewn with open lipsticks, eyeshadows, packets of sequins, curling tongs, and even discarded tissues and paper cups with used straws.
In addition to the shampoo - which was in some cases substituted for styling mousse or glitter sprayed into patterns such as stars - the models sported a metallic red lip, reflecting one of the other key themes - new glamour.
Maison Margiela is known for the deconstruction of familiar fashion items, and this time it was the turn of the trench coat - the idea being that when getting ready in a hurry the wearer can just wrap up in one and not worry about the rest of the outfit.
Barely a look passed that didn't have some reference to the coat, whether it was reimagined in a transparent fabric, or the belted section was simply used as an accessory.
One was made from plisse organza that resembled corrugated cardboard, others’ components - such as pockets - were actually an illusion rather than functioning parts.
Another interesting use of fabric included a bodice that resembled carved wood. Every look was styled with a footwear item that is not usually regarded as high fashion: the cowboy boot.
Since his fall from grace in 2011, John Galliano has kept a low profile, preferring not to take a bow at the end of the show.
Instead, the house ateliers - all dressed in Margiela’s signature staff uniform of scientific white coats - stood on the steps to be applauded by the audience as they left the building.
Haute Couture Paris Fashion Week SS17: street style
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