Viktor and Rolf Spring 2023 Haute Couture

Viktor and Rolf Spring 2023 Haute Couture 

By: Kate Kimberlin 

Spring Haute Couture Fashion Week continues in Paris with the Dutch Avant Garde brand Viktor and Rolf debuting their new collection, ‘Late Stage Capitalism Waltz,’ on Wednesday night. The collection consisted of 18 beautifully constructed ball gowns, but not all of the dresses were worn by the models the “correct” way. Dresses were perpendicular to models, inches off of the body, and even upside down. The collection is another great example of haute couture as well as the humor that often comes out of Viktor and Rolf.   

The Looks 

Without the use of the 3D printing that flips the dresses in different directions, the collection would be dated, but could still stand on its own. With use of pastels, bows, and tulle, the collection feels like trends past, especially the recent explorations into Regency-era style. Once you consider the perspective of the collection, it becomes a feat of art and fashion. Much of the collection appears to be defying gravity, with one model even appearing to have been speared by a ballgown. The use of these angles adds a whimsical note to the collection, almost to the point of being outlandish.  

The Concept 

With the eyebrow-raising collection debuting during fashion’s most experimental week, the internet is already buzzing with questions about the deeper meaning of this collection. Many guessed it was tied to capitalism’s relationship with fashion, but the Dutch design duo said they drew inspiration from the disconnect of images and reality. The duo utilized 3D printing to achieve the mind-bending directions of the dresses in order to achieve looks that replicate a glitched Photoshop project. 

Rapper Doja Cat also made an appearance at the show, her second in Paris this week. She was dressed in a suit from the brand fit with fake eyelashes and eyebrows, a mustache, and a goatee after she received backlash for not wearing false lashes with her Schiaparelli ensemble.

Despite its border on absurdity, Viktor and Rolf continue to prove their worth as an avant garde fashion house with collections like this. Not only is the concept thought-provoking, but the gravity-defying collection is a work of art on its own. Most importantly, the Dutch fashion house continues to prove that, at its core, fashion is fun. 

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All images belong to their respective owners.