Harris Reed's latest collection for Nina Ricci FW25 draws inspiration from Helmut Newton's provocative 1973 photography, reimagining Parisian nightlife through a lens of sensual elegance and bold silhouettes
On March 7th, Nina Ricci unveiled its much anticipated Fall-Winter 2025 collection, "Paris la Nuit," at the prestigious Hotel Salomon de Rothschild in Paris. A mesmerizing ode to the elegance and intrigue of the Parisian night, the collection draws inspiration from a 1973 Helmut Newton photograph, an iconic image that perfectly encapsulates the interplay of sensuality, drama, and power. Under the creative direction of Harris Reed, Nina Ricci reinterprets this vision into a contemporary wardrobe, seamlessly blending cinematic allure with modern sophistication.
A Vision in Shadows: The Influence of Helmut Newton
Helmut Newton, a visionary in fashion photography, was renowned for his ability to evoke power and allure in his work. His 1973 photograph, the foundation of this collection, embodies his signature aesthetic; marked by deep shadows, bold contrasts, and the duality of femininity and dominance. Newton's imagery from the 1970s and early '80s set the stage for a new kind of fashion storytelling, one that was provocative yet refined.
Reed masterfully translates Newton's vision into Paris la Nuit, embracing a striking fusion of power and seduction. The collection plays with dramatic tailoring, exaggerated silhouettes, slashed necklines, and lingerie inspired designs, all rendered in fabrics that reflect the mystery of nocturnal Paris and the confident sensuality that Newton so often captured.
Runway Highlights: A Play of Light and Texture
The FW25 collection is a display of textures, silhouettes, and color contrasts, merging opulence with avant-garde sophistication. Plush yet structured citrine faux fur coats adorned with amethyst velvet ribbons evoke a rich interplay of jewel tones, while slashed silk negligees embody Michelle Pfeiffer's electrifying wardrobe in "Scarface," exuding old-Hollywood glamour with dangerously deep necklines. Micro-hemmed and sultry lingerie-inspired pieces blur the lines between evening wear and intimate apparel, a clear nod to Newton's provocative photography. Completing the runway vision, subtle yet striking watercolor zebra prints pay homage to 1970s style icon Ali MacGraw, introducing an element of rebellious charm to the collection.
The collection's color palette balances timeless hues with deep jewel tones, while luxurious materials such as velvet, silk grosgrain, and fluid satins reinforce the aura of opulence.
Nina Ricci FW25 Accessories: Final Touch of Drama
No Nina Ricci collection is complete without a bold approach to accessories, and Paris la Nuit delivers a striking array of finishing touches. Romantic yet structured silk headscarves and tasselled velvet ribbons exude quintessential Parisian elegance, while richly tinted aviator sunglasses add an air of rebellion to sophisticated evening wear. The footwear offering reveals sculptural wedge heels that reinvent classic silhouettes through architectural lines and bold textures. Completing the accessory narrative, top-handle bags with elongated straps embellished with beads and cowhide prints pay elegant homage to a 1996 Nina Ricci archive silhouette.
The Enduring Allure of Parisian Nightfall
With Paris la Nuit, Harris Reed masterfully fuses elements of Newton's voyeuristic elegance, vintage Hollywood sensuality, and the enigmatic beauty of Paris after dark. The collection is a celebration of feminine power, cinematic mystique, and timeless allure. In an era where fashion embraces both nostalgia and reinvention, the collection stands as a testament to the eternal charm of the Parisian night.
Celebrities who attended Nina's fashion show included Alice Pagani, Kim Cattrall and Dianna Agron.
