By At the Paris menswear fashion shows, Rick Owens presented a unique spectacle that intertwined the grace of Olympic gymnastics with his signature avant-garde style. His Spring/Summer 2025 collection, showcased at the Palais de Tokyo, featured a “gymnast bouquet,” a striking steel structure adorned with gymnasts in static poses, supported by a group of young men.
Owens, traditionally known for his dark, gothic designs, ventured into the realm of athletics with this presentation, offering a fresh perspective on the Olympic theme prevalent in this season’s shows. The models, predominantly students and staff from Parisian fashion colleges, embodied a collective spirit, contrasting the typical fashion show format by appearing in groups, all donned in uniform white and ivory ensembles. This departure from Owens’ favored black palette lent the show a sci-fi ambiance, further accentuated by Cleopatra-inspired headpieces and masked models.
Following more intimate showings at his residence, Owens embraced the expansive Palais de Tokyo to extend an inclusive invitation to the fashion community. The show’s central theme of unity was symbolically represented by a gymnast holding a flag depicting hand-in-hand solidarity, a poignant reminder of the importance of togetherness amidst global tensions.
Owens’ commitment to authenticity is well-regarded in the fashion industry, as he not only designs but also personally embraces his bold creations. This collection’s focus on unity was brought to life through collaborations with long-time partners and emerging talents alike.
Choreographer Ylva Falk, known for her work on a 2015 performance featuring similar acrobatic feats, crafted the gymnastic elements of the show. Dafne Balatsos, a 25-year collaborator with Owens, contributed to the robe designs, while newcomer Tanja Vidic, a recent fashion graduate, impressed with her innovative knitwear creations.
In essence, Rick Owens’ latest show was a celebration of athletic prowess, artistic collaboration, and the enduring human spirit, all set against the backdrop of one of fashion’s most prestigious stages.
