It is 8:00 p.m. in the grounds of the Royal Palace when, through the still dark columns of this iconic square, figures appear. Suddenly, they come alive and start dancing — (LA) HORDE has awakened, and the Isabel Marant Spring-Summer 2021 show can begin.
It begins with an explosion of spotlights, as the models parade through the centre of the monumental courtyard, and around them a tumult of lamé bodies is unleashed. To go to a party, the burning desire to go out, dance, get away… we know exactly what Isabel’s talking about. The versatile looks are reminiscent of the 80s: colour block, short skirts, mini-shorts and blazers with shoulder pads with not much worn underneath.
The attitude and clothing are giving us pure Debbie Harry — topical, given Miley’s recent “Heart of Glass” cover. Fuchsia, red, blue, silver, the prints and materials follow one another in a parade of dazzling colours. The party resonates through the gardens of the Palais Royal to the sound of Donna Summer’s hymn “I Feel Love”, remixed by the Italian artist Gabber Eleganza.
“This collection celebrates love” read a print by artist Amber Goldhammer across on a short-sleeved jumpsuit. As winter arrives and Paris once again faces new restrictive measures, Isabel’s show reflected an undeniable thirst for lightness and freedom. It reminds us of the months of isolation and those that we are perhaps preparing to spend. Above all, like a manifesto, it seemed to tell us that the party will come back, bigger, more beautiful, and more flamboyant still. Paris will always be a party, we hope.
