Recently, Demna has been reinforcing his core identity. Since October 2023, he’s presented collections that epitomise his punkish, provocative attitude and a penchant for padded shoulders. Yet, he never remains static. Last night’s Spring 2025 runway show, technically Resort 2025, staged in Shanghai, was a testament to his dynamic vision. Despite Balenciaga’s numerous stores in China, this marked their inaugural show in the country, a meticulously planned event years in the making. The Spring 2025 collection was unveiled at the Museum of Art Pudong, a masterpiece by French architect Jean Nouvel. Unfortunately, the vibrant steamed win-win cakes—a Shanghainese delicacy symbolising good fortune, dyed in auspicious red and stamped with the double-B logo—could not stave off the rain that began falling late in the afternoon, persisting into the evening show. Yet, the drizzle failed to deter the throngs of enthusiasts beyond the barricades, swathed in plastic ponchos and clutching umbrellas, eagerly awaiting stars like actress and house ambassador Michelle Yeoh. Demna’s love affair with Shanghai and his clientele there is evident in the meticulous planning of this show. Despite his avant-garde flair, he remains pragmatic. The booming luxury market in Asia makes Shanghai a strategic choice for this grand event. Demna’s ability to balance creative integrity with marketable products cements his brilliance as an artistic director and visionary. In Shanghai or elsewhere, his designs continue to make us think and feel—two commodities money simply cannot buy. More irreverent designs—the ripped tights pantashoes and a Balenciaga shoe box clutch crafted from leather—sprinkled among a plethora of Balenciaga staples. “I tried to create a new equilibrium between different parts of my aesthetic, so I’m not only the streetwear-hoodie guy or couture reinterpreted,” Demna explained. “It’s all of that and maybe more.” The final series of experimental semi-couture and couture dresses emphasised materiality: a cocoon column-like dress assembled from travel bags, another fashioned from gold foil gift packaging, and a third from Tyvek paper, subtly nodding to one of China’s greatest inventions. The closing gown, a striking creation from decade-old pink plastic bags, featured strips hand-cut and wired into feather-like embellishments, evoking a piece from the house’s archive. Amid Shanghai’s relentless consumption, this couture made from recycled materials struck a particularly poignant chord. The couture looks that closed the show were nothing short of magical. Particularly the pink gown, crafted from decade-old plastic bags, strips cut and wired to mimic feathers. A sleeveless dress made from gold-foil gift packaging and other pieces constructed from Tyvek paper and travel bags added to the collection’s allure. One standout was the “black velvet jewellery display dress,” a creation for the arbiter of taste who favours luxury with a microdose of eccentricity. The Shanghai collection, unveiled on a rainy evening at the imposing Museum of Art Pudong, added another compelling chapter to Demna’s narrative. The designs reflected his intellectual curiosity and a twisted take on classic glamour. One could easily imagine the cast of Netflix’s Bling Empire donning these quirky rich-lady outfits, whether in L.A. or the bustling streets of China’s largest city. The collection featured polished hourglass skirts and billowy pussy-bow blouses paired with slinky open-toe heels and white tube socks or ripped-fabric pantaboots. Cropped and bulky trenches and cocooning faux-fur coats exuded an “I’m expensive” vibe, coupled with an aura of utter nonchalance. Demna’s signature blend of tackiness and perfect tailoring, with distinct lines, was ever-present. Men’s offerings were equally robust, highlighted by a new collaboration between Balenciaga and Under Armour. The viral sensation was the triple-layer brick-size flatform boot, inspired by Shanghai’s towering skyscrapers, destined to become a must-have for Demna’s most fervent devotees. Just before his Fall 2024 Balenciaga runway show in Paris, Demna left a tantalising voice message for his audience, accessible via a QR code in the collection notes. He declared, “What seems truly rare and infinite right now is actually creativity itself. I believe that creativity has secretly become a new form of luxury.” This proclamation encapsulates the very essence of Demna’s design ethos. By treating luxury as an unbounded playground for self-expression rather than a rigidly structured domain, he has turned his tenure at Balenciaga into a nine-year spectacle of unrivalled success.

In the latest Burberry Resort 2025 collection, Daniel Lee pays homage to the brand's storied history, celebrating its outerwear prowess with a fresh twist. Drawing inspiration from his Yorkshire roots and the quintessential trench coat, Lee reimagines the classic silhouette through the lens of texture and innovative treatments. The result? A stunning array of grainy linen blends in earthy greens and browns, adorning men’s and women’s coats, cargo trousers, and belted shirt dresses with trench-inspired collars. The collection showcases a range of cutting-edge techniques, from laser-cut daisies on water-repellent suede to shearling bomber jackets with a diagonal check motif. Among Lee's standout pieces is a cotton coat, ingeniously bonded with layers of technical fabric and garment dyed for a chic, lived-in look. This piece epitomizes Burberry’s ethos of blending practicality with durability, making it a cornerstone of the new collection. Staying true to the rich Burberry archive and the heritage of British design, the Resort 2025 collection brims with easy elegance and a classical British attitude. This season, there’s a pronounced focus on trench coats, Harrington jackets, and suits inspired by Savile Row. The iconic Burberry check is everywhere, from tops and trousers to a new tri-layer cotton blend trench coat and peacoats in a delightful patchwork of Prince of Wales tweed and herringbone wool. The collection’s colour palette is a feast for the eyes, featuring sun-bleached shades and earth tones that evoke the beauty of the English outdoors. Bags are a particular highlight, with the Rocking Horse bag stealing the show, accompanied by a chic bucket bag in Burberry Check and a versatile satchel with interchangeable straps. The Shield bag introduces a new tote silhouette, while the Knight bag emerges as the must-have mini accessory. Garment dyeing is a recurrent theme, adding character to cashmere sweaters, waxed jackets, and classic tailoring in traditional menswear fabrics. This technique channels the understated elegance of a British country squire’s well-worn attire. With peacoats in patchworked tweed and herringbone wool, the collection nods to the timeless style of Savile Row regulars. The Burberry Resort 2025 collection is a masterclass in blending functionality with style, urging us to embrace the unpredictable British weather with sophistication. Daniel Lee’s designs honour the brand’s heritage while pushing the boundaries of innovation, offering a seamless transition from countryside charm to city chic. With playful, directional pieces like shearling jackets with tubular vines and updated pussy-bow blouses, the collection brings a touch of levity to British fashion.

Picture this: sun-drenched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and you, confidently strolling along the shore in the perfect swimsuit. Finding that ideal swimwear can be as exhilarating as planning the holiday itself, but with an ocean of options out there, where do you even begin? Fear not, fashion adventurers! This year, we've streamlined your search for beach and poolside perfection. Welcome to our exclusive guide to the best swimwear brands to pack for your next holiday. From the timeless sophistication of Eres and Lisa Marie Fernandez to the daring and innovative styles of Louisa Ballou, Fisch, and Riot, we’ve handpicked the crème de la crème of swimwear. Each of these labels brings unique flair, impeccable fit, and high-quality craftsmanship to ensure you make a stylish splash wherever your travels take you. Dive into our curated selection and discover your new summer staples, perfect for sun-soaked adventures and beyond. Check out our men's article about the best trunks of Summer 2024 here . Sakuranna Sakuranna brings a touch of artistry and elegance to swimwear with its beautifully crafted designs. Infused with Japanese-inspired aesthetics, this brand offers swimwear that combines intricate patterns, delicate details, and luxurious fabrics. Each piece from Sakuranna is a testament to high-quality craftsmanship and unique style, perfect for those looking to stand out by the water. Embrace the blend of tradition and modernity with Sakuranna's stunning swimwear collection, ideal for making a sophisticated splash on your next holiday. Click here. Hunza G Hunza G is revolutionizing swimwear with its signature crinkle-stretch fabric that offers a universally flattering fit. Celebrated for its one-size-fits-all approach, this British brand delivers chic, minimalist designs that hug every curve comfortably. From classic bandeaus to stylish one-pieces, Hunza G's collection embodies effortless elegance and contemporary style. Perfect for any sun-soaked adventure, these swimsuits are a must-have for those who value both fashion and comfort. Click here. Oséree Oséree is making waves in the swimwear world with its luxurious, shimmering designs that exude glamour and sophistication. Renowned for their signature Lurex fabric, Oséree's swimsuits sparkle under the sun, making every beach outing a stylish affair. With a range of bold colors and elegant cuts, these Italian-crafted pieces are perfect for those looking to make a dazzling statement by the water. Elevate your swimwear collection with Oséree’s stunning, high-quality creations that promise to turn heads at every turn. Click here . Whistles x The Longing The Whistles x The Longing collaboration brings a fresh, artistic touch to swimwear, blending Whistles' contemporary style with The Longing's unique, hand-drawn prints. This collection features elegant, modern silhouettes adorned with intricate, eye-catching patterns that celebrate individuality and creativity. Crafted with high-quality, sustainable materials, each piece ensures you make a stylish and eco-conscious splash. Perfect for those seeking both sophistication and originality, Whistles x The Longing offers swimwear that stands out by the water. Click here. SKIMS SKIMS redefines swimwear with its focus on inclusivity and innovation, offering a range of styles that cater to every body type. Founded by Kim Kardashian, the brand combines sleek, minimalist designs with high-performance fabrics, ensuring both comfort and style. From versatile mix-and-match bikinis to chic one-pieces, SKIMS swimwear is designed to enhance natural curves and provide a flawless fit. Dive into a collection that celebrates confidence and body positivity, making SKIMS the ultimate choice for your next beach getaway. Click here. BAIAH BAIAH swimwear captivates with its blend of luxury and modernity, offering pieces that are both elegant and fashion-forward. Known for its meticulous craftsmanship, the brand uses premium materials to create swimsuits that provide a perfect fit and exceptional comfort. BAIAH’s designs feature sophisticated silhouettes and unique details, making each piece a standout. Ideal for those who seek refined style by the water, BAIAH swimwear promises to elevate your beachwear collection with its timeless yet contemporary aesthetic. Click here. Nobody's Child Nobody’s Child is redefining swimwear with its sustainable and stylish designs. Known for their commitment to eco-friendly practices, this brand offers a range of chic, contemporary pieces that are as kind to the planet as they are flattering. From vibrant prints to timeless silhouettes, Nobody’s Child ensures you’ll make a splash with swimsuits that blend fashion-forward aesthetics with responsible production. Dive into their collection and find the perfect piece for your next seaside escape. Click here. Alexandra Miro Alexandra Miro swimwear epitomizes luxury and sophistication, featuring bold designs that command attention. Renowned for its impeccable fit and high-quality fabrics, the brand offers a range of striking pieces, from chic one-pieces to glamorous bikinis. Each design is characterized by clean lines, vibrant prints, and a touch of elegance, perfect for those who want to make a statement at the beach or poolside. With Alexandra Miro, you’ll experience swimwear that combines contemporary fashion with timeless allure. Click here. Triangl Triangl swimwear is synonymous with youthful energy and vibrant style, offering bold, eye-catching designs that stand out. Known for its signature neoprene fabric, the brand delivers both durability and a flattering fit. Each piece, from sporty bikinis to chic one-pieces, features bright colors and playful patterns, perfect for making a splash. Triangl’s innovative approach ensures you’ll find swimwear that’s as functional as it is fashionable, making it a go-to for trendy beachgoers. Click here. Missoni Mare Missoni Mare brings the iconic Missoni aesthetic to swimwear, featuring intricate knit patterns and vibrant colors that exude luxury and elegance. Each piece is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, combining the brand’s signature zigzag designs with high-quality fabrics for a perfect blend of style and comfort. From stunning bikinis to elegant cover-ups, Missoni Mare offers a range of sophisticated options that make a striking statement by the water. Embrace the timeless glamour of Missoni Mare and elevate your beachwear collection with these exquisite designs. Click here. Cala De La Cruz Cala De La Cruz swimwear blends sophistication with a touch of edgy glamour, offering sleek designs that effortlessly transition from beach to bar. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, each piece is a statement of modern elegance and timeless style. Click here. Faithfull the Brand Faithfull the Brand: Faithfull the Brand brings bohemian charm to swimwear with its breezy silhouettes and playful prints. Inspired by vintage aesthetics and tropical destinations, their swimsuits evoke a sense of wanderlust and adventure, perfect for the free-spirited traveller seeking effortless chic. Click here. Agua by Agua Bendita Agua by Agua Bendita: Agua by Agua Bendita celebrates bold femininity with its vibrant colors and intricate embroidery. Each swimsuit is a work of art, reflecting the brand's Colombian heritage and dedication to craftsmanship. From intricate floral patterns to eye-catching details, Agua by Agua Bendita offers swimwear that captivates and inspires. Click here. Haight Haight swimwear epitomizes modern minimalism with its clean lines and sculptural shapes. Designed for the contemporary woman who values both style and comfort, their swimsuits offer effortless sophistication and versatility. From sleek one-pieces to chic bikinis, Haight provides timeless staples for the fashion-forward beachgoer. Click here. Zimmermann Zimmermann's swimwear exudes romance and femininity, featuring delicate ruffles, intricate lace, and dreamy prints. Inspired by the brand's Australian roots and love for the beach, each piece is designed to flatter and enchant. Whether lounging by the pool or strolling along the coastline, Zimmermann offers swimwear that embodies effortless luxury and elegance. Click here. Riot Swim Riot Swim disrupts the swimwear scene with its inclusive designs and bold, empowering aesthetic. Celebrating diversity and body positivity, their swimsuits are designed to make a statement, featuring daring cuts, vibrant colours, and striking details. Riot Swim empowers women to embrace their curves and express their individuality with confidence. Click here. Ganni Ganni brings its signature Scandinavian cool to swimwear, offering playful designs and unexpected twists on classic silhouettes. With a focus on sustainability and ethical production, their swimsuits blend style with conscience, perfect for the eco-conscious fashionista. From retro-inspired prints to contemporary details, Ganni offers swimwear that's as stylish as it is responsible. Click here. Pucci Pucci swimwear is synonymous with luxury and glamour, featuring bold prints and vibrant colors that evoke the brand's iconic aesthetic. Each swimsuit is a celebration of Italian craftsmanship and jet-set sophistication, designed to turn heads wherever you go. With its unmistakable style and timeless appeal, Pucci offers swimwear that transcends trends and exudes effortless chic. Click here. Marks & Spencer Marks & Spencer's swimwear combines style, comfort, and affordability, making it a go-to destination for fashion-conscious shoppers. From classic cuts to trend-led designs, their swimsuits cater to every taste and body type, ensuring a flattering fit for all. Marks & Spencer offers swimwear that's both accessible and on-trend, perfect for the modern woman on a budget. Click here. Dora Larsen Dora Larsen's swimwear collection is a celebration of color and self-expression, featuring bold hues and unexpected combinations. Known for their innovative designs and attention to detail, their swimsuits offer a fresh take on classic styles, perfect for the fashion-forward beach babe. Dora Larsen empowers women to embrace their individuality and express themselves through vibrant swimwear. Click here. & Other Stories & Other Stories' swimwear collection is a fusion of Scandinavian minimalism and urban sophistication, offering understated designs with a contemporary edge. From sleek monochromes to abstract prints, their swimsuits exude effortless chic and versatility. & Other Stories provides swimwear that seamlessly transitions from beach to street, perfect for the modern city dweller with a penchant for style Click here. Alaïa Alaïa's swimwear embodies timeless elegance and sophistication, featuring intricate textures, sculptural shapes, and impeccable craftsmanship. Each piece is a work of art, designed to flatter and accentuate the female form. With its unparalleled attention to detail and luxurious materials, Alaïa offers swimwear that transcends seasons and trends, making it a staple in every fashion-forward woman's wardrobe Click here. Lisa Marie Fernandez Lisa Marie Fernandez redefines luxury swimwear with its timeless designs and impeccable craftsmanship. Renowned for her flattering cuts and attention to detail, Odabash's pieces exude sophistication and elegance. From glamorous bikinis to chic one-pieces, each garment is crafted from high-quality fabrics that offer both style and comfort. Elevate your beach wardrobe with Lisa Marie Fernandez's iconic designs and experience the epitome of resort-ready sophistication. Click here. Melissa Odabash Melissa Odabash redefines luxury swimwear with its timeless designs and impeccable craftsmanship. Renowned for her flattering cuts and attention to detail, Odabash's pieces exude sophistication and elegance. From glamorous bikinis to chic one-pieces, each garment is crafted from high-quality fabrics that offer both style and comfort. Elevate your beach wardrobe with Melissa Odabash's iconic designs and experience the epitome of resort-ready sophistication. Click here. Totême Totême's swimwear collection embodies minimalist sophistication with its clean lines and timeless designs. Crafted from luxurious materials, each piece exudes effortless elegance and understated glamour. From sleek one-pieces to chic bikinis, Totême offers swimwear that seamlessly transitions from poolside lounging to beachfront cocktails. Elevate your summer wardrobe with Totême's refined aesthetic and impeccable craftsmanship. Click here.

Chopova Lowena has been announced as the winner of the 2024 BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund (BFC/VDFF). Established in 2008, the Fund provides the winner with a cash prize of £150,000 to support business growth and their contribution to the British and global fashion ecosystem. Additionally, the winner receives pro-bono bespoke high-level business mentoring and professional services. The Fund is generously supported by British Vogue, Burberry, and Paul Smith. Founded by Emma Chopova and Laura Lowena in 2017, Chopova Lowena is a brand that seamlessly blends British and Bulgarian craftsmanship. Their designs vibrantly juxtapose folklore references with sportswear elements, creating a unique aesthetic. The brand prioritises sustainability by using recycled materials and deadstock textiles to craft long-lasting, modern pieces with a punk twist. Their signature piece, a recycled folkloric textile skirt, has captivated the international street style scene, establishing Chopova Lowena as one of the UK’s most exciting and burgeoning design talents. In a resounding celebration of innovative design and entrepreneurial prowess, the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund (BFC/VDFF) continues to spotlight the brightest talents in the British fashion industry. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, the Fund criteria emphasize not only the artistry of womenswear and accessories but also the strategic integration of the Institute of Positive Fashion's core principles: Environment, People, and Community & Craftsmanship. This holistic approach ensures that applicants are not only exceptional designers but also visionaries in sustainable and ethical practices. Emma Chopova and Laura Lowena , Co-Founders, Chopova Lowena: We are so honoured to be the recipients of the BFC/Vogue Fund this year. We are joined on the shortlist by fellow designers we greatly admire and sit alongside past winners who inspire us daily. The support of the BFC and Vogue means the world to us and we are eternally grateful for this opportunity to continue to grow and develop our brand on a higher level. London is at the core of what Chopova Lowena is about and we feel very proud to be part of this amazing creative community. We are forever thankful to our amazing team who work so hard every day to make our dreams possible. Thank you so much to the incredible panel of judges, we are so excited for the future. Ahluwalia, Clio Peppiatt, KNWLS, NENSI DOJAKA and Stefan Cooke were all shortlisted for the 2024 prize. Over the years, the BFC/VDFF has honored designers who have since become trailblazers in the industry. Esteemed past winners include 16Arlington, Richard Quinn, and Bethany Williams, each of whom exemplifies the fusion of creative brilliance and positive business impact. These luminaries not only elevate the standards of fashion but also contribute to its evolution as a force for good in the community and the environment.

Cannes Film Festival is amongst one of the most prestigious film award ceremonies, and it takes place right after the Met Gala . The star studded festival is spread across an entire week packed with movie premieres, red carpets and events celebrating the big screen. This year on the opening night Meryl Streep was awarded an honorary Palme d’Or, while wearing a full Dior Couture look by Maria Grazia Chiuri - a long white silky gown. This will not be the world stage if Selena Gomez did not attend and make the headlines for one of the best dressed from the event. She wore a stunning Yves Saint Laurent custom gown and paired it with a magnificent Bvlgari necklace depicting two swans meeting in the middle to hold a 20 carat diamond. Rumour has it, this necklace costs an approximate $2.4 million dollars. Anya Taylor-Joy arrived on the 15th of May in a custom gown by Dior Couture, accessorised with a stunning jewellery set by Tiffany & Co. The embellished ball gown designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri, featured a corset which beautifully extended into a voluminous gown, paired with Anya's signature red lipstick. Sienna Miller certainly knows how to captivate an audience with a bold look. After making headlines in 2023 appearing in a Schiaparelli voluminous set of a white top with a stunning skirt, showcasing her baby bump; this year she collaborates with the brand once again to present a more relaxed look, wearing cowboy jeans paired with the iconic golden toes shoes, and a tweed jacket with golden lips - a Schiaparelli trademark. Rose Bertram in a hot pink Balmain couture gown, accessorised with Messika jewellery. Vic Carmen Sonne wore a Louis Vuitton mermaid off-shoulder gown with a train.

Sabato De Sarno takes us home for the Gucci Cruise 2025, presenting his London-inspired collection at one of the most famous art galleries - Tate Modern. Ever since Sabato was appointed the new creative director of the brand, he was tasked with the difficult mission of toning down the brand, while trying to make it more desirable and appealing to stealth wealth. With the earning releases for Gucci this Spring being another 18% lower than the previous quarter, it is making us question whether his take on the iconic brand is what was really needed. The Cruise 2025 collection explores dichotomies. It is set in a highly brutalist building - the Tate Modern, and it mixes a bit of everything, as if Sabato De Sarno is too afraid to bet on any particular movement or style for that matter. We see a plain version of Gucci, as if the house is trying to blend in with everyone else, while trying to find its space in the ever changing market. But Cruise shows were never meant to be this big thing, and our main focus was always on the bags. The first assemble of outfits walking down the runway isn't anything mind-blowing, but when was a Cruise/Resort collection ever of any interest? It caters to a very small market, or at least that is how it would be pitched to investors, if that market even exists. However, it oftentimes comes at a great price for fashion houses, which are forced to fly out celebrities and press to whatever location they've decided to host the event, simply because it falls off-calendar and isn't in a common fashion week location.