What Really Happened at Haute Couture Week FW25-26

Paris just wrapped up Haute Couture Week for Fall/Winter 25-26, and let me tell you, it was packed with big changes, wild creativity, and some emotional goodbyes. If you missed it, don’t worry. Here’s the quick and honest FAXION AI rundown of what went down.

Schiaparelli Started Things Off Strong

Daniel Roseberry knows how to make an entrance. The show opened the week at the Petit Palais with bold, sculptural pieces that felt like art you could wear. There were dresses with hearts and eyes stitched in, and Cardi B showed up in a black dress with a raven on her arm. Not subtle, but definitely unforgettable.

Chanel Closed a Chapter

This was the last couture collection before Matthieu Blazy took over. The in-house team kept its classics: soft tweeds, gentle shapes, and a clear nod to Coco Chanel’s roots. Nothing flashy, just a graceful pause before the brand moves forward.

Balenciaga Said Goodbye to Demna

This one hit hard. Demna’s final show for Balenciaga felt personal. Each guest got a handwritten note. The clothes were futuristic but raw, filled with emotion. Kim Kardashian and Isabelle Huppert walked the runway, making it feel more like a goodbye letter than just another show.

Margiela and Celine Showed Promise

Glenn Martens brought something fresh to Maison Margiela. Think a little post-apocalyptic, a little romantic, but all carefully made. Celine also showed off-calendar with a clean, wearable collection. Both felt quiet but worth paying attention to.

Franck Sorbier Went Full Fantasy

His show blended Andean culture with Paris craftsmanship. Picture gold crowns, ponchos, and dramatic sets that looked like volcanoes. It was different, but in a good way. It felt like a story, not just clothes.

Key Takeaways:

• Dior and Valentino were absent from the Haute Couture Week, and more small houses, such as Franck Sorbier and Rahul Mishra had room to shine.

• Jewelry was everywhere. Moving pieces, glowing pieces, and styles that felt alive.

• The whole week leaned into storytelling and handwork. It wasn’t just about what looks cool, but what means something.

So, what’s next?

Chanel’s new era with Blazy is going to be huge. People are already guessing where Demna will land…maybe Gucci? And honestly, this week proved that smaller names can make just as much noise as the big ones when they take risks and stay true to their vision.

This season felt real. It wasn’t about hype or gimmicks. It was about change, art, and what fashion can say when you let it breathe. Haute couture is still very much alive, and it’s got something to say.

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