Thom Browne Was Inspired By a Fairytale With Playful Prints and Giant Heels

Thom Browne returned to Paris Fashion Week to debut his spring/summer 2023 women’s ready-to-wear collection. It was every bit as fantastical, whimsical, and exuberant as one would expect from a Thom Browne production. Stars like Doja Cat (who’s been having quite the stylish Fashion Month), Janet Jackson, Erykah Badu, Jaden Smith, and Maisie Williams, all decked out in Thom Browne, watched the spectacle from the front row. Not only was the audience filled with celebs, but so was the show casting itself. “Sandman”‘s Gwendoline Christie opened the runway in an ornate, oversize, blue, gold-embellished blazer overcoat. Closing the show was none other than “Pose” star Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, who stepped out of a giant, life-size heel before getting into a makeshift dress cage in the shape of a classic car. “In Thom Browne’s world . . . all girls and all boys fit inside the shoe . . .,” read a quote from the brand’s press release, explaining the symbolism on display in the inventive production.

Known for his fanciful approach to reconceptualising traditionally classic men’s tailoring, the acclaimed designer showed in New York City earlier this year for his fall/winter 2022 collection. This latest SS23 collection aligned with Browne’s penchant for the experimental. Inspired by his own interpretation of a fairy tale, the garments delivered a host of visual themes through their use of colour, shape, and fit. Hallmarks of this collection included vibrant, puffed overcoats; collegiate aesthetics; pastels; signature dog-shaped bags; and, of course, impeccable tailoring.

Ahead, see more glimpses of the stars at the show and all the runway highlights.