Looking back at the Asian icons who dominated Paris Haute Couture
While the fashion world buzzes with anticipation for the upcoming couture shows, the standout moments from last season’s shows are still dominating the conversation. Long the ultimate stage for boundary-pushing creativity, the spotlight was unmistakably seized by a wave of major Asian style icons, whose appearances delivered unforgettable glamour and powerful cultural resonance. Here’s a look back at the most memorable Asian celebrity moments that defined the season
Chanel
Picture: Instagram @chanelofficial
At Chanel, the focus remained firmly on classic textures, impeccable fits and understated luxury that speaks volumes without trying too hard. South Korean brand ambassador Kim Go-eun epitomised this timeless aesthetic, stepping out in a beautifully draped, silky beige dress. She injected a playful pop of colour into the neutral look with vibrant orange flower earrings and carried a rich, burgundy brown leather bag.
Picture: Instagram @chanelofficial
Nearby was global supermodel legend Liu Wen, who arrived in a fully beige, perfectly tailored skirt suit. The jacket’s sharply defined waist and structured shoulders beautifully accentuated her natural body lines, while a classic black bag featuring the iconic double-C logo rounded out the fierce look.
Iris van Herpen
Picture: Instagram @irisvanherpen
When it comes to Iris van Herpen, Champion skier and fashion darling Eileen Gu perfectly embodied the house's futuristic romance. The elite athlete looked completely otherworldly in a dreamy, pastel pink silk gown that seemed to float as she moved. The true showstopper of her ensemble was the intricate, sculptural wing-like structure arching across her back, turning her appearance into an absolute fairy-tale moment.
Valentino
Picture: Instagram @maisonvalentino
The Valentino show was a masterclass in blending sharp, commanding silhouettes with romantic elegance, and the brand’s star-studded guest list perfectly mirrored this energy. Mandopop royalty and brand ambassador Jolin Tsai turned heads in a striking, pinstriped one-piece blazer mini dress that featured a heavily structured shoulder line. She kept her makeup ultra-sleek, pairing the powerful tailoring with pin-straight long hair. Thai actress Freen Sarocha took a slightly sweeter but equally sophisticated approach, balancing a rigid, structured blazer with a fluid, fluidly soft silk skirt and anchoring the look with statement oversized earrings.
Picture: Instagram @maisonvalentino
Meanwhile, Rei and Liz from Ive looked straight out of a modern fairy tale. Both K-pop stars channeled absolute princess energy in custom bow-tailored tops. Rei opted for romantic floral patterns paired with a silky skirt, while Liz went for a clean, minimalist colour palette grounded by intricate floral tights.
Also see: Paris Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2026 key highlights
