Couture Week In Paris In The Midst of Political Protest
Haute Couture is renowned as an annual showcase of the fashion industry’s most talented designers, presenting their extravagant, elegant and sophisticated creations on the runway without any limitations on budget or resources. Originating and exclusively based in Paris, France, it represents a grand renaissance of artistic expression. During Couture Week, prominent fashion houses flourish, cementing the event’s significance as a pivotal moment for both the industry and the city of Paris. However, some critics have started to view Haute Couture as overly indulgent, with the world’s wealthiest designers coming together to celebrate in an exclusive and extravagant manner.
The recent remarks by Celine’s creative director, Hedi Slimane, criticising the appropriateness of the runway show amidst ongoing riots in Paris, have sparked a debate on the separation of Couture Week from societal issues. The tragic death of Nahel Merzouk, an aspiring Black electrician killed by the police, sheds light on the long-standing issue of police brutality and social unrest, especially concerning minority communities in France.
Nahel, an only child living in France, was working as a delivery driver. Enrolled at a college in Suresnes, he trained to become an electrician to provide for both himself and his family. On his way to work at the end of June, he was fatally shot by the Parisian police force, for driving away from a traffic stop due to his age. At 17, he did not have a licence to drive.
Police brutality for minority groups is not a new concept for the French government. In 2005, two teenagers were killed as they were running away from police and before that, infamous soccer player Thèo Luhaka was beaten and gassed by police for going through an ID check in a notorious area for drug dealing which he was passing by. Year after year, police target black people in France and incite violence, leading to riots around the city in Paris.
When the murder of Nahel hit the public, conflicting reports that were manipulated by the government hit the news – articles spread around by outlets said that Nahel had drove into two police officers before inciting their violence, but as a video came out from the scene that showcased its contradictions, created uproar.
In the wake of Nahel’s death, protests and public outrage have intensified, prompting discussions about the need for intervention and accountability for Couture Week and the fashion industry during this time. While fashion has historically been an instrument for societal expression and reflection, some argue that Couture Week should be more attuned to the current social climate. As it takes place in Paris, a city directed affected by the unrest, there is an opportunity for Couture Week to respond to the prevailing issues with sensitivity and awareness while still continuing to proceed.
Critics emphasise that Couture Week’s lavish and exclusive nature may inadvertently divert attention away from pressing matters related to equal rights and social justice. Should the public advocate for a more conscientious approach by the fashion industry, utilising its vast resources and influence to address and support relevant causes or shut down in its entirety for solidarity? While traditions and the fashion calendar hold significance, proponents of change believe that exceptions, particularly in times of social unrest, should be considered, even in major fashion capitals like Paris.
Ultimately, the challenge lies in striking a balance between celebrating artistic expression and acknowledging the real-world issues that demand attention and action. Couture Week’s potential for adaptation and responsiveness could contribute positively to the ongoing fight for equality and justice, especially when aligned with the urgent needs of society. As fashion continues to play a role in the human experience, a thoughtful and empathetic response from the industry can amplify voices and promote meaningful change.