The Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode is calling for solemnity as Paris Fashion Week gets underway today. In a statement made via Vogue Business, Ralph Toledano, president of the Fédération, said the shows will go on but in light of the Russian military attack on Ukraine, they are encouraging people to be reflective. “Creation is based on the principle of freedom, under any circumstances. And the role of fashion is to contribute to individual and collective emancipation in our societies,” the statement reads. “Given the present context, the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode encourages you to experience the shows of the coming days with solemnity, and in reflection of these dark hours.”
The statement comes after some fashion editors and attendees posted reflections on the stark juxtaposition between a crisis in Ukraine and an opulent event like fashion month. In Milan on Sunday, Giorgio Armani opted to send models down the runway in silence. “The best thing to do is send a message that we don't want to celebrate because something very disturbing is happening around,” said Mr. Armani after the show.
