DESIGNER Spotlight: Paco Rabanne

After training as an architect in the early 1960s, Paco Rabanne applied his skills towards avant-garde accessory design, proposing unique creations for several haute couture houses in Europe. His debut collection in 1966 featured iconic chainmail dresses that helped define an era of shape-shifting fashion and remains emblematic of the house still today. Julien Dossena was appointed Artistic Director in 2013 after being the Senior Designer at Balenciaga under Nicolas Ghesquière. Julien says, “When I think of Paco Rabanne, I don’t think retro - I think revolution, rebellion and renaissance.” His daring vision for the house innovates upon the existing know-how, bridging sophisticated expression with everyday ease.