Not every day in Paris Fashion Week unfolds as planned. On Day 4, I found myself forced to slow down when an unexpected bout of illness hit me hard. After three adrenaline-fueled days of barely catching more than three to four hours of sleep each night, my body finally demanded a pause. This day, though starting in bed with a touch of regret for missing my morning appointments, turned out to be a surprising mix of self-care and stylish adventures that redefined my approach to the hectic pace of fashion week.
The Power of Rest
The morning began quietly and introspectively. While I had originally scheduled several high-profile appearances, my body insisted on rest. I surrendered to a full 7 hours of sleep—a rarity amidst the whirlwind of fashion shows and after-parties. The transformation was almost instantaneous; waking up with a rejuvenated spirit, I was even showered with compliments on my refreshed appearance. It was a stark reminder that health and well-being form the true foundation of success, even in an industry defined by glamour and relentless schedules.
Glitter and Glamour at Elie Saab
By mid-afternoon, with my energy restored, I was ready to embrace the runway once again. I headed to the Elie Saab show, marking my fifth consecutive appearance at an Elie Saab event—a personal tradition that feels like an homage to the brand’s ever-evolving yet consistently elegant aesthetic. This particular show, themed “Standing On Stardust,” was a dazzling display of glitter and shimmer. The ready-to-wear collection offered a youthful, edgy contrast to their couture line, breathing fresh energy into the room. Models graced the stage with an effervescent blend of glamour and youthful spirit, a scene that left me in awe and excited about the intricate balance between tradition and modernity in fashion.
An Encounter with Emerging Talent
Shortly after the show, I made my way to a showroom to explore the work of a newly discovered designer, Mihano Mimosa. Hailing from Serbia, Mihano’s creations are as delightful as his personality. Inspired by the elegant yet feminine style of his mother, his collection showcased A-line silhouettes, beautifully tailored gowns, and his signature bell sleeves—a detail that instantly captivated me. I remember spotting a pristine white ensemble that called out to me, its intricate design promising a blend of romance and wearable couture. The experience was a refreshing reminder that fashion week is not just about established names, but also about celebrating fresh, innovative talent that dares to redefine style.
Celebrating Creativity with a Friend
At 5PM, my day took a warmly personal turn. I rushed to Colette for a special event—a book signing by my dear friend Aimee Song, the creative force behind Song Of Style. Her new book, “Capture Your Style,” is the culmination of years of hard work and creative expression. Being there to support her was a moment of heartfelt pride amidst the glittering chaos of fashion week. It was more than just a signing; it was a celebration of creative journeys and the power of storytelling in shaping personal style.
Effortless Street Style
Inspired by the day’s earlier events, I decided to embrace simplicity for my street style look. I chose a delicate lavender lace top paired with crisp white trousers—an outfit that epitomized understated elegance. Accentuated with carefully chosen accessories—Elie Saab pieces for both top and bottoms, Danijo earrings, a Proenza Schouler purse, and shoes by Derek Lam—the ensemble felt like a natural extension of my personal style. It was a reminder that amidst the extravagance of fashion week, there is profound beauty in simplicity.
Evening Presentations and New Beginnings
The fashion show circuit picked up pace again in the early evening. At 6:30PM, I attended the Roger Vivier presentation, a collection that showcased an impeccable mix of classic silhouettes and modern aesthetics. Each piece was a study in intricate craftsmanship, a blend of heritage and contemporary flair that left me eager to add a few favorites to my wardrobe.
Not long after, at 7:30PM, I was swept into the world of Nina Ricci. The show exuded a sporty yet glamorous vibe, infused with a captivating purple theme that ran throughout the collection and venue. From fluid slip dresses to rich velvets and striking mixed prints, Nina Ricci’s presentation was a masterclass in redefining classic elegance with a modern twist.
Celebrations and Connections
The night continued with the Mugler store opening at 8:30PM, a vibrant event that celebrated not only a new retail space but also the return of familiar faces. Catching up with old friends, including a delightful reunion with David from the Vogue Paris dinner, was a highlight of the evening. The store’s aesthetic—modern, bold, and unmistakably Mugler—served as a perfect backdrop for a night of celebration and connection.
Finally, at 11:30PM, I joined my FWRD and Revolve family for a much-anticipated party. Dancing the night away with Raissa and Michael brought the day full circle, reaffirming the importance of community and friendship in the fast-paced world of fashion.
A Lesson in Balance
Despite a rough start marked by an unexpected bout of illness, Day 4 of Paris Fashion Week became a powerful testament to the importance of balance. Amidst the glitz, glamour, and constant hustle, I learned that taking time to rest and recharge is not a setback but a vital component of sustaining one’s passion and creativity. Fashion week is undoubtedly a celebration of style and artistry, but it’s also a reminder that our personal well-being should always come first.
As I reflect on the day—a blend of glittering runway moments, intimate personal celebrations, and meaningful reconnections—I’m reminded that every experience, no matter how challenging, has the potential to inspire a new perspective. In the end, it’s not just about the dazzling collections or the exclusive events, but about the journey, the people, and the moments that remind us to care for ourselves while we chase our dreams.
