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During Paris Fashion Week, are hotels just hotels?
As fashion weeks are in full swing, luxury hotels transform into sanctuaries
January 22nd, 2025
As Paris Men’s Fashion Week FW25 unfolds and the much-anticipated Haute Couture SS25 approaches, major French brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel, and Jean Paul Gaultier are seizing the moment to amplify their creative vision and redefine the message of each house. The energy in the air is palpable, promising designs and enthralling statements from the industry’s finest. Among a convergence of creativity, culture, and connection amid the whirlwind of runway shows and industry events, hotels play a pivotal role as more than just places of rest. Throughout the years, they have transformed into sanctuaries for designers, editors, buyers, and influencers alike—offering a space to recharge, foster meaningful conversations, and host exclusive dinners, events, and gatherings.
Perhaps the most iconic and enduring association between a Parisian hotel and the world of fashion is undoubtedly the legendary connection between the Ritz Paris and Coco Chanel, as the designer moved to the luxury hotel in 1934 and remained there until her death in 1971 – the room where she stayed is now called the Coco Chanel Suite–. Additionally, Dior’s inaugural collection in 1947 was unveiled at the Hôtel Plaza Athénée. Among the unforgettable pieces he presented on February 12 were looks aptly named ‘Plaza’ and ‘Athénée’, a clear homage to the space that shaped his inspiration while walking along avenue Montaigne. Following the New Look era, Dior continued to photograph his models at the hotel, where they were often seen socializing during their downtime. The Salon Impérial of the Hôtel Inter-Continental also played a fundamental role when Yves Saint Laurent chose to present his designs in 1976. Nowadays, the vibrant connection between fashion and the hospitality industry not only sparks creativity but has transformed into something much greater. It has given rise to sanctuaries where guests can unwind, foster meaningful conversations, and immerse themselves in unique, curated experiences.
From showrooms gracing lavish hotel suites to exclusive after-parties in luxurious penthouse spaces, hotels transform into vibrant hubs of culture, image, and creativity. These locations come alive, especially during events designed to amplify the voices of the next wave of creative leaders in fashion, art, and culture. One was the 'At The Table' dinner, masterfully curated by Orla Francesca and Lisa Nilsson in collaboration with Mandarin Oriental Paris last season. «The hotel opened in 2011. Fashion Week has always been an important event for us because we are located right in the heart of Paris, in the middle of the fashion district », Mandarin Oriental Paris told nss. « By embracing Paris Fashion Week, hotels can position themselves as more than just places to stay—they become integral parts of the cultural conversation. This is particularly crucial because Fashion Week has evolved beyond the runway, becoming a cornerstone of the luxury industry. Luxury hotels have the unique ability to play a role in this ecosystem, offering premium experiences that resonate with fashion-forward guests while elevating their brand as a cultural and lifestyle destination, » Karla Otto France hospitality PR’s manager Vincent Rosso added.
During Paris Fashion Week, celebrities and guests choose luxury hotels like The Peninsula Paris, Ritz Paris, La Réserve Paris, Cheval Blanc Paris, Bvlgari Hotel Paris, Four Seasons Paris, Mandarin Oriental Paris and Le Royal Monceau - Raffles Paris –all of them located on the right bank–. Their choices often align with a sense of belonging, immersing oneself in an atmosphere of exclusivity and opportunities for networking or partnerships with global industry leaders. « Paris Fashion Week is an iconic moment on the cultural calendar, not just for fashion but for luxury as a whole. For luxury hotels, it represents a pivotal opportunity to connect with VICs, VIPs, celebrities, and key fashion audiences. Hosting these guests and launching bespoke activations during Fashion Week enhances a hotel's brand image, aligning it with the creativity and exclusivity of the event, » Rosso explained.
As the city’s hospitality scene continues to evolve and new establishments are constantly emerging, a fresh approach to hospitality is taking shape—one that feels increasingly personal, intimate, and tailored to the individual. « We are a boutique property and do not welcome any events except for a few exclusive showrooms in our suites. Between shows and in the evenings, the hotel often serves as an office and meeting place for our guests. And at night, we fulfill the purpose they chose us for in the first place: a sanctuary where they can rest and be cared for, » Hôtel Balzac explained. On the other hand, the left bank also seems to be gaining momentum. « Saint-Germain-des-Prés is becoming more and more popular during Paris Fashion Week. All the famous brands and shops are here, and many of the best restaurants too. At Villa-des-Prés we secure an intimate atmosphere, not pretty much like the one we see on the right bank. Some guests from Paris Fashion Week chose us because it’s quiet and in a great neighborhood, but with everything you will find in a 5-star hotel, » Villa-des-Prés’s Hotel Manager Jérôme Didier clarified.
Furthermore, in light of Bernard Arnault’s growing influence within the hospitality industry, the role of hotels will become even more dynamic. As reported by Forbes, « following the continued success of the Monsieur Dior restaurant and archive museum that opened in the renovated Parisian Dior flagship on Avenue Montaigne in 2022, LVMH is turning to its other iconic brand Louis Vuitton to create immersive brand experiences through hospitality. It was announced that the brand will open its first hotel on the Champs Elysées in Paris ». The first opening of a Louis Vuitton hotel in 2026 will likely encourage the ongoing exploration of a sector determined to transform into multidisciplinary spaces.