The Show Must and Will Go On: Highlights from the 40th Hyeres Festival
PetitePaulina – Hyeres Festival,From the bright sun-inspired logo by Jean Charles de Castelbajac to the packed award ceremony at Villa Noailles, the 40th edition of the International Festival of Fashion, Photography, and Accessories carried a clear message: the show continues, stronger than ever. Despite recent challenges, the event delivered a vibrant celebration of emerging creativity.
A Festival in Transition but Looking Forward
This year’s festival unfolded amid leadership changes and financial challenges, including a significant deficit and restructuring within its organizing team. The appointment of a new managing director signaled a fresh direction. Rather than focusing on setbacks, the atmosphere shifted toward renewal, with an emphasis on transparency and artistic resilience.
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Emerging Designers Take the Spotlight
This edition introduced a bold format change, featuring designer-only juries in the fashion and accessories competitions. The photography jury also embraced peer selection, offering new voices the opportunity to shape the conversation. This structure brought a sense of authenticity and mentorship, reinforcing the festival’s reputation as a launch pad for future talent.
Winning Collections That Redefine Boundaries
Swiss-Chilean designer Lucas Emilio Brunner impressed with a collection that fused Ivy League style with the playful structure of balloons, incorporating latex, denim, and sculptural silhouettes. Noah Almonte explored the blurred lines between digital identity and real-life interaction through fashion. Other winners challenged norms around gender, heritage, and craftsmanship through bold reinterpretations of materials and themes.
Symbolism and Innovation in Design
The event’s visual identity and curated experiences highlighted not only fashion excellence but also the deeper symbolism of cultural continuity. This year, the festival reduced its length but expanded its depth, proving that innovation doesn’t always require excess. With thoughtful programming and refined execution, the spirit of artistic exploration remained central.
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A Strong Show of Industry Support
Key industry players reaffirmed their commitment to the festival, including luxury houses and design collectives. Their ongoing support demonstrated confidence in the festival’s future and the value it offers to emerging talents. The presence of such partners underscored the event’s status as a crucial space for creative discovery and industry networking.
Why the 40th Edition Stands Out
This milestone edition was more than a celebration. It was a declaration that creativity can thrive even under pressure. By embracing change while honoring tradition, the festival showcased the strength of its foundations and the promise of its future. Emerging designers, industry leaders, and cultural figures all contributed to a collective moment of renewal, unity, and forward-looking optimism.
