A Haute Couture Tribute to Joséphine Baker and Brancusi
On 28th January 2025, in Paris, at Salle Pleyel, Stéphane Rolland unveiled his Haute Couture Summer 2025 collection, “Origines”. A tribute to Joséphine Baker and Brancusi, the collection speaks of love, talent, resilience, and freedom.
The designer transported the audience into a world where art, history, and fashion intertwine, paying a heartfelt tribute to two iconic figures of the 20th century: Joséphine Baker and Constantin Brancusi. Both visionaries who conquered the world through their art and freedom of expression—Baker, a bold artist and activist, and Brancusi, a master sculptor. It was from this fusion of spirit and artistry that the first lines of the collection were drawn.
And speaking of freedom—that which we constantly seek as a form of self-affirmation—this freedom has been a recurring theme in Stéphane Rolland’s recent collections. It is not just about being where we want to be, but about embracing who we truly are. This concept of freedom and movement became the collection’s core, proving that fashion is not merely about clothing—it is about emotion.
A Celebration of Love and Legacy
One cannot speak of Joséphine Baker without mentioning love and generosity. She adopted twelve children of different nationalities, forming what she affectionately called her “Rainbow Tribe”. The French dancer, singer, and activist, renowned for her daring performances and civil rights advocacy, became a symbol of empowerment and freedom.
Throughout the show, recordings of Baker’s voice and messages from her children echoed through the venue, creating a deeply moving and emotional moment, a true homage to her unwavering spirit.
A Charitable Runway Show
In a beautiful initiative, Stéphane Rolland, alongside the co-manager of the maison, Pierre Martinez, partnered with the Fondation des Hôpitaux and France’s First Lady, Brigitte Macron, to create a life-changing experience.
Twelve young girls were given the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Haute Couture for four months, learning not only about craftsmanship but also about love and the power of giving. Furthermore, a portion of the show’s tickets were made available for sale, with all proceeds donated to charitable projects run by the institution.
La Collection: A Fusion of Art and Emotion
A collection infused with emotion and beauty was unveiled, featuring feathers, sheer fabrics, sharp shoulders, draped silhouettes, geometric and sculptural forms—all paying homage to the organic works of Brancusi.
The classic tuxedo was reimagined in black gazar and ebony satin, while structured shoulders, fluid silhouettes, and bold contrasts took centre stage. White tunics embroidered in gold, sculptural capes, intricate porcelain embroidery, and structured hairstyles contributed to the show’s grandeur.
Sheer fabrics accentuated movement, creating the impression of a perfectly choreographed dance, guided by the designer’s vision.
The colour palette ranged from crisp whites and deep blacks to molten metallics and rich browns, exuding timeless sophistication. Though the overall aesthetic leaned towards darker tones and dramatic settings, this was undeniably a collection filled with light.
Le Grand Finale!
As the curtains parted, Coco Rocha took the stage in a spectacular feathered gown, a signature element of Baker’s iconic style—particularly during her time in Paris. The gown seemed to capture her silhouette mid-dance, embodying the very essence of her grace and movement.
A moment etched in our hearts forever, a vibrant tribute to a legend whose light will continue to shine through time.
Photos by @monsieur.Ferreira ( Arnaldo Ferreira ) and Joséphine / BRANCUSI / Stéphane projeto
