WORDS BY DAISY SCOTT
After a two-year hiatus, fashion weeks are back. Front rows are filled once more, and the experience of fashion weeks are back in full force.
So far on the fashion week schedule, we've seen an establishment of contemporary classics and timeless staples that suit everyone's wardrobes, to a celebratory tribute for the late Virgil Abloh.
We spoke to Osama Chabbi, featured in Vogue, WWD and NSS magazine whilst seated at the FW22 Louis Vuitton, Maison Alaïa and Loewe. Chabbi has become the standout star and witty commentator of Paris Fashion Week (and fashion events alike).
Not only is Chabbi a Dubai-based stylist, but he is also a significant part of the FARFETCH Private Client team. We caught up with him after his whirlwind fashion tour, to talk about next season's trends and to ask — what is it like to experience fashion (in the real world) again?
Read the entire interview below.
During FW22 Paris Fashion Week, what were your show highlights?
Loewe and AMI were two very anticipated shows for menswear this season, as Loewe brings a lot of freshness and playfulness to the menswear scene, as for AMI It is usually filled with contemporary classics and good staples.
I truly enjoyed the latest Louis Vuitton show, which was a tribute to Virgil Abloh and his creative legacy. It was also a very emotional moment for a lot of us there.
For the last two years, physical fashion shows have been on hiatus. Personally, how did it feel finally getting back into the seats?
I feel like the creative development of digital formats truly made fashion more present than ever within the media landscape, an enjoyable hiatus. However, physical experiences are how we were taught to build memories, so being able to go back to physical formats is truly a blessing. You feel the soundtracks, the people, you see the clothes in action. It’s very stimulating.
If you could pick out the trends you're looking forward to wearing this Spring/Summer, what would they be?
A new type of tailoring is on the rise, which feels non-traditional and unexpected for menswear with unusual shapes and structures. Kim Jones’ Fendi did that quite well, Gmbh also mastered it. On the other hand, menswear seems quite playful this time around with bright bold colors leading the way. A lot of pink and dynamic colors, overall, a very optimistic color palette.
Contrastingly I’m also looking forward to all-black summer fits for absolute sharpness. Yes, there's a way to master ‘summer-black’ perfectly.
As for FW22, what should we be looking into purchasing?
I’m usually quite big on uniform looking fits and neutral wear, however this winter I’m trying to experiment with more primary colors and bright staples. I have a few bright blue pieces on my wishlist, a very specific blue Klein shade has my attention. I like over-shirts, padded light jackets and maxi shirts as they’re easy to layer and carry from season to season.
Tell us your top three wish-list pieces:
I have been getting a few essentials from Studio Nicholson lately, they just get the fit right. For example, this crew neck jumper.
This Bottega Veneta coat is also at the top of my wishlist. Low cut double-breasted with dropped shoulders which is quite a relaxed look I like.
A bright tennis bracelet is a good way to brighten a winter silhouette, it’s a great added detail. I have a thing for crystals, especially in men’s fashion. I think jewelry plays a key role.
Feeling inspired? Explore our edit of new-season pieces below.