Paris experienced record-breaking temperatures exceeding 44 degrees Celsius (111 degrees Fahrenheit) this week, leading to the closure of the Eiffel Tower, museums, and numerous schools. Amidst this extreme heatwave, attendees at Paris Fashion Week Menswear shows were observed wearing clothing more appropriate for colder weather, a trend also noted at London's Serpentine Gallery Summer Party.
At the Yves Saint Laurent show, guests like Kate Moss were seen in heavy dark grey jeans and jackets, with only rolled ankles or lighter tops offering minimal concessions to the heat. Actor Rami Malek wore black pinstripe trousers, a striped shirt, a tie, and a black leather blouson jacket. Connor Storrie attended in a black plastic mac and shiny black PVC knee boots, while singer Charli XCX wore a leather slip dress. Madonna donned a long-sleeved, high-necked lace mini dress with tights.
This adherence to winter attire is a common practice at fashion weeks, where guests are expected to wear pieces from upcoming collections to promote designers' work. The fashion industry often operates on a six-month ahead cycle, meaning June showcases feature autumn/winter 2026 collections. Attendees act as walking advertisements, driving customer awareness and potential demand for these heavier fabrics.
Similarly, at the Serpentine Summer Party in London, actress Sienna Miller wore a beige slip dress paired with a fur-trimmed coat by Conner Ives. The coat, described as featuring "100 per cent vintage blue fox" fur, retailed for approximately £6,480 and has since sold out. Despite the warm weather, Miller's ensemble prioritized fashion over comfort.