Skip to main content
BoF Logo

Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.

Radical Classicism at Rochas

In a season of aesthetic chaos, classicism and elegance came across as a radical stance, and all the better for it.
Rochas Autumn/Winter 2017 | Source: InDigital.tv
By
  • Angelo Flaccavento

PARIS, France — In a season of total aesthetic chaos, classicism and proper elegance come across as a radical stance, and all the better for it. There was something reassuring in the gentle strictness of the Rochas show today. Alessandro Dell'Acqua did away with overt embellishment and forced eccentricity to focus on what he does best: dressmaking.

Inspired by the classic but very different styles of two real madames — Marella Agnelli and Helene Rochas — Dell'acqua delivered a collection made essentially of demure dresses and faultless coats. The painterly palette was particularly outstanding, as was his firm will to keep the tone of voice a whisper rather than the shout. It looked just a little vintage-y, and not really groundbreaking, but it was delicious.

© 2026 The Business of Fashion. All rights reserved. For more information read our Terms & Conditions

More from Fashion Week
Independent show reviews from fashion’s top critics.

Clash of the New Titans

Haider at Tom Ford, Pieter at Alaïa, comings and goings in fashion, and Nico at Courrèges coming up fast, all of it leading to a day of dynamic fashion in Paris, writes Tim Blanks.


Paris Day Three: Variables and Constants

One of the busiest days of Paris fashion week featured a hello at Balmain, a goodbye at Alaïa and variations on signature visions at Courrèges, The Row, Dries Van Noten and Tom Ford.


view more
Latest News & Analysis
Unrivalled, world class journalism across fashion, luxury and beauty industries.

Charlotte Tilbury on Remaking a Hero Product

By introducing a new version of her original Magic Cream, Tilbury treads into the tricky territory of reformulation, a necessary risk that can reinvigorate a staid product — or destroy a best-seller.


VIEW MORE
Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.
CONNECT WITH US ON