Most Iconic Designer Fashion Shows

Designer brands don’t simply showcase clothing and accessories, they put together an immersive luxury experience. What’s more, high-fashion brands often use their fashion shows to pass on a particular message and a lavish theme behind their collections.

Join us as we look through some of the most iconic designer fashion shows to date. 

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Chanel: Rocket Launch 2017

We all know Chanel is at the forefront of luxury fashion, always pushing the envelope when it comes to style. Well, in 2017 the label designed a massive Chanel rocket that simulated a sparks-flying launch into orbit for their Autumn 2017 ready-to-wear fashion launch. 

The clothing range also displayed a ‘futuristic’ theme, with references to space travel. Think reflective space blankets, metallics, sparkly boots, and astronaut print. The late creative director, Karl Lagerfeld, also cleverly added some 1960’s nostalgic elements with bouffant hairdos and more. The ‘60’s look’ is in reference to the rocket launch to the moon in the late 60’s. 

Dolce & Gabbana: Alta Moda 2021

Dolce and Gabbana’s 2021 Alta Moda fashion show was just the right amount of extravagance and beauty that we expect from a luxury fashion show. 

Located in Venice’s St. Mark’s Square in 2021, D&G truly captured the spirit of Venice, the Renaissance era, and the colourful creations of the yearly Carnival in the city. The pieces displayed showcased a divine parade of treasures with beautifully constructed gowns and outstanding masterpieces covered in crystals. 

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Versace: Gianni Tribute 2018

For the brand’s spring/summer 2018, Donatella Versace assembled a fashion show to commemorate her late brother and founder of the luxury company, Gianni Versace. 

Gianni was truly at the heart of the tribute fashion show. Gianni references were all around, from his most iconic fashion show pieces down to the models. Even a soundtrack included a voiceover of Donatella speaking about Gianni. 

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Fendi: The Great Wall of China 2007

Fendi was the first major fashion brand to stage a fashion show on the Great Wall of China. They presented their Spring/Summer 2008 collection, featuring 88 models, walking 88 metres along one of the great wonders of the world. All this was to honour the lucky number 8, according to Chinese culture. 

What’s more, it’s the first fashion show visible from the moon since the great wall of China can be seen from outer space! 

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Alexander McQueen: ‘They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?’ 2004

Founder, Alexander McQueen suffered for years under depression before succumbing to his mental illness in 2010. But before his passing, McQueen somehow turned his painful experience into a beautiful fashion show.

For the brand’s Spring ready-to-wear runway, McQueen reenacts Sydney Pollack's Depression-era poverty film ‘They Shoot Horses, Don't They?’ 

McQueen enlisted professional dancers to deliver an evocation of dancing themselves to death, culminating with Karen Elson in a ragged dress being carried lifelessly through the runway. All in celebration of exquisitely glamorous fashion. 

ALSO SEE: THE LIFE OF ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

Fendi: Rome Collection 2016

To celebrate Fendi’s 90th anniversary, the brand put together an elaborate fashion show in the capital of Italy, Rome.

When in Rome, do what the Romans do. The Haute Couture line-up consisted of long, breezy dresses, printed with landscapes and scenes. The models walked across a clear glass runway, appearing as if they came out of the fountain.

Where To Buy Luxury Clothing & Accessories

Life is a fashion show and the world is your runway! So, if you’re trying to tell a luxurious story through your style, shop our range of designer clothing, handbags, shoes, watches and more online. Alternatively, visit us at one of our boutiques to model your favourite items first.