By Thom Browne’s latest couture presentation for fall 2024 was a theatrical homage to sportsmanship and old-world elegance. The show, set in Paris’s esteemed “Musée des Arts Décoratifs,” opened with a dramatic tug-of-war, setting the stage for a collection that intertwined the spirit of the Olympic Games with the artistry of couture.
The runway was a playful arena where models, embodying the essence of athletes from various eras, showcased garments that redefined gender norms and traditional tailoring. The collection featured exaggerated silhouettes with pronounced shoulders and cinched waists, reminiscent of vintage sports attire. Tennis skirts, heel-less track boots, and laurel wreath headdresses completed the looks, while hand-painted swimwear motifs and tricolor accents paid tribute to French heritage.
In a surprising twist, Browne utilized muslin “toiles”—typically the preliminary versions of couture pieces—as the main fabric, elevating the work-in-progress to the status of final couture creations. This choice highlighted the meticulous craftsmanship of hand-basting and intricate embroidery in metallic hues, celebrating the journey of creation as much as the end result.
Thom Browne, a brand renowned for its distinctive aesthetic and awarded multiple CFDA Menswear Designer Awards, has been a staple in the fashion industry since its inception in 2001. Now part of the Zegna group, the label boasts a global presence, with its ready-to-wear lines gracing over 300 stores worldwide.
Celebrity stylist Jared Ellner, who has worked with personalities like Emma Chamberlain and Sabrina Carpenter, praised the brand’s unique ability to blend individuality with a recognizable style. In an era where minute details often go unnoticed, Thom Browne’s commitment to character and craftsmanship stands out as the epitome of luxury.
