The rise of Saint Laurent’s sales since Hedi Slimane took over as creative director have recently been described as ‘meteoric’, and judging by his latest ready-to-wear collection, sales are set to soar even further.
After completely re-branding the infamous fashion house in 2012 (even going as far as removing the ‘Yves’ from the established name), Slimane has brought about a rock ‘n’ roll vibe to the brand. The autumn/winter collection for 2015 followed this trend, with 60 looks of grunge that will surely rock the fashion world.
Leather played a big part in Saint Laurent’s show; jet black mini dresses, rocky oversized jackets and even a full leather jumpsuit amped up the sex appeal in the Paris show, all these leather looks were made edgier with ripped fishnet tights, that would of looked cheap if they weren’t being modelled alongside such desirable outfits. With their hands in their pockets, thick black eyeliner and post box red lips, the models carried the looks perfectly as they strutted up and down the catwalk in their leather boots.
The collection ranged between androgynous suits and leather trousers to flirty, glittering dresses (which were, of course, roughed up with a heavy leather jacket thrown on top). Unsurprisingly, Slimane chose to stay away from the conventional choice of picking one pattern to influence the show, and instead featured stripes, polka dots and the print of every mammal from the animal kingdom, leading to one of the most interesting catwalks Paris has seen all season.
Outwear also played a huge part in the show; from the multicoloured furs, punk bomber jackets or the classically stylish trenches – you name it, Saint Laurent had it. Slimane stuck to a colour palette of black and gold, adding a regal, classic twist to the otherwise sexy and grunge collection.
Despite their latest advert model being unveiled as 71-year-old Joni Mitchell, the newest season seems to be continuing to appeal to a younger audience, another aspect introduced Hedi Slimane introduced when he took control at Saint Laurent. His wearable fashions for AW 15 wouldn’t look out-of-place on a stylish twenty-something walking the streets of the fashion capitals of the world.
