Thom Browne’s Couture Debut

What distinguishes someone as a storyteller? Is it an original concept? Keeping the attention of your viewer? Or the cohesive flow of the story being told? Once you’ve taken time to ponder your own definition of “storytelling”, you might agree that all roads lead to time & consideration in the process of storytelling. The space to create the story an author has invited us into. Through the many mediums one may narrate from, in fashion few have combined the title of “Fashion Designer” & “Storyteller.” Thom Browne’s debut Paris Haute Couture show has not only solidified him as a legendary fashion designer, & a unique storyteller as well.

Met with an impeccable mis-en-scène, the story is told as such: The lone traveler has arrived at the train station. During her wait for departure, she passes time on the lonely platform by reflecting on her life. Met with an eerie tune, the suspenseful dream-like beauty of the characters swoons her of a time. We aren’t sure if these are sweet or bitter memories, just that they are of beings ago. As bells sound off, guardians of the station & flocking pigeons march along the space reminding us that our main character still has a reality awaiting. However, with a surprise twist, her train arrives & she decides to not board. The gift of reflection has allowed gratitude to settle in for to appreciate the life she has been given, flaws & all.

I had the pleasure of tuning into this show live. (s/o to the Thom Browne’s Instagram live) I immediately understood that I was watching a theatrical drama of triumph. Thom Browne takes his coveted suit wear designs & creates a window of relation between the main character & audience. “The main character was sitting at the station, thinking about her life and not being very happy. And then suddenly, she sees of her fantasies walking in.” Browne concisely expresses this emotion through the poetry of his debut couture show in hopes that maybe we can get a better understanding of his journey thus far. Overcoming the trials & tribulations that have all lead up to this moment. Turning your menacing past into a beam of brilliance.

“I wanted people to know me for what I do—starting with tailoring, and conceptual ideas, and giving you the story,” He’s reminded the viewer that couture is meant to be an experience, & he made sure that guests would not leave without fulfilling that. To say I’m looking forward to more couture stories in the future from Mr. Browne & his amazing team would be an understatement. A debut worth a million daydreams.