The fall 2025 Paris Fashion Week kicked off with a showcase of innovative and thought-provoking designs from the Master's students at the Institut Français de la Mode (IFM). These young creators, hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds, presented collections that not only reflected their technical prowess but also addressed contemporary societal issues. Leyla Neri, director of the program, emphasized the students' awareness of global challenges and their response through artistic expression. The event featured an array of abstract concepts, including critiques of overconsumption, reflections on cultural identity, and explorations of new technologies in fashion. The IFM’s collaboration with industry experts and manufacturers further enhanced the students' ability to translate their visions into reality. Sidney Toledano, former CEO of LVMH Fashion Group, praised the graduates for their creativity and precision, highlighting the institute's commitment to fostering both artistic freedom and technical excellence.
The Institute Français de la Mode has long been a crucible for emerging talent, and this year was no exception. Students from 13 different countries brought their unique perspectives to the runway, each collection offering a window into the designer's worldview. Catalan designer Ricard Baldomà, for instance, channeled his frustration with the lack of recognition for Catalonia into a series of garments adorned with bold political statements hidden within elegant ruffles and drapery. Meanwhile, Filip Bejek tackled the issue of overconsumption by transforming discarded materials into regal attire, while Reece Liang from China’s Sichuan region turned tinsel and tags into extravagant outfits that questioned the nature of authenticity.
Australia’s Jason Clark delved into the corporate world, creating distorted silhouettes that mirrored the broken systems he observed in society. In contrast, Xingyi Jin from China sought solace in traditional crafts, drawing inspiration from Chinese umbrellas and coffered ceilings to create pieces that encouraged people to look up from their devices. Hawi Akrawi, inspired by the term "Muttersöhnchen" (mummy’s boy), explored the complexities of his relationship with his mother and her journey as an immigrant from Kurdistan to Germany. His work aimed to reclaim and redefine the term, blending personal narrative with broader social commentary.
Technology played a significant role in this year’s showcase. Paul Billot embraced 3D printing on textiles, crafting nearly holographic patterns that blurred the lines between reality and digital illusion. He collaborated with AI, using its imperfections to fuel creative innovation. Steven Chevallier, Sojung Lee, and others also experimented with cutting-edge techniques, pushing the boundaries of what fashion can achieve. Serge Haouzi, manager of design at Teintures de France, noted the synergy between the students’ imaginative ideas and the company’s technical expertise, underscoring the importance of industry partnerships in nurturing future designers.
The class of 2025 has one more month to finalize their collections and research theses before presenting them to a panel of industry professionals. Following this, they will embark on six-month internships, ready to bring their visionary ideas into the world of high fashion. The IFM’s emphasis on execution, creativity, and organization ensures that these young talents are well-prepared to make their mark on the global stage. Their work not only showcases technical skill but also reflects a deep engagement with the world around them, setting the tone for the future of fashion.