This season's Paris Fashion Week has been a showcase of fresh talent and bold new directions in fashion. Several debut collections have garnered significant attention, marking a turning point for iconic brands. Julian Klausner's first collection for Dries Van Noten demonstrated his deep understanding of the brand’s heritage, while Haider Ackermann’s designs for Tom Ford received an unprecedented standing ovation. Sarah Burton’s inaugural collection for Givenchy, inspired by the label’s founder Hubert de Givenchy, also stood out. Additionally, the anticipation builds for Matthieu Blazy's debut at Chanel. Literary influences permeated many collections, from Oscar Wilde at Alexander McQueen to Vladimir Nabokov at Róisín Pierce. Themes of Britishness and historical eras also played prominent roles, creating a rich tapestry of inspiration.
New Beginnings and Timeless Inspirations at Paris Fashion Week
In the heart of Paris, during the autumn/winter 2025 fashion week, the city witnessed a series of remarkable debuts that promised a new chapter for several renowned fashion houses. The event kicked off with Julian Klausner’s presentation for Dries Van Noten. Having spent six years working closely with the original designer, Klausner brought a fresh yet familiar perspective to the runway, showcasing an exquisite blend of intricate prints and textures that resonated deeply with the audience.
Haider Ackermann’s arrival at Tom Ford was equally celebrated. His Matrix-inspired leather garments and vibrant, candy-colored tailoring not only earned him a rare standing ovation but also quickly found their way onto celebrities like Cate Blanchett, who sported the pastel-pink suit and lime-green shirt just days after the show. This swift adoption by high-profile figures underscored the immediate impact of Ackermann’s vision.
Sarah Burton’s return to Givenchy marked another highlight. Her collection, which drew inspiration from Hubert de Givenchy’s groundbreaking work in 1952, featured a stunning white lace dress that echoed the elegance of the brand’s roots. Elle Fanning’s appearance in this dress at the Oscars previewed Burton’s direction, blending tradition with modernity.
Meanwhile, anticipation built around Matthieu Blazy’s upcoming debut at Chanel. In the interim, Chanel’s studio team presented a romantic collection filled with delicate organza overlays and ruffled collars, maintaining the house’s signature charm. At Chloé, Chemena Kamali continued to redefine contemporary bohemian style, while Dior transported viewers back to the Tudor and Elizabethan eras through Virginia Woolf’s Orlando.
Literary references were a recurring theme this season. Seán McGirr’s Alexander McQueen collection paid homage to Oscar Wilde and the 19th-century dandy, resulting in one of his most compelling works yet. Róisín Pierce incorporated lines from Vladimir Nabokov and Sylvia Plath into her show’s soundtrack, adding layers of depth. Fidan Novruzova, a Central Saint Martins graduate, explored the 1920s and 1930s through Evelyn Waugh’s Vile Bodies, offering a unique perspective on the era.
British themes also emerged strongly. Andreas Kronthaler, creative director of Vivienne Westwood, referenced Clapham South, infusing a sense of place into his designs. Ganni, a favorite among Scandinavian fashion enthusiasts, embraced oversized knits and tapestry skirts that evoked the ambiance of the British countryside.
One notable aspect of this season was the reduced capacity at some major shows. Givenchy limited seating to 300 guests, and Tom Ford hosted only 200 attendees. Louis Vuitton, moving from the Louvre to L’Étoile du Nord, cut its guest list from 1,000 to 300, aligning with the train platform theme of the venue. These changes reflected a shift towards more intimate, focused presentations.
From this journalist’s perspective, the emergence of these new creative directors signals a dynamic period for fashion. Each debut brings a fresh interpretation of established brands, blending history with innovation. The literary and cultural references add layers of meaning, inviting deeper engagement from both the fashion industry and its audience. This season’s Paris Fashion Week has set the stage for an exciting future in fashion design.
In a remote corner of southern Mexico, adjacent to Guatemala, lies an untouched wilderness that rivals the Amazon in its rich biodiversity. This region, known for its vibrant wildlife and lush vegetation, offers visitors an unparalleled experience of nature's wonders. The cacophony of howler monkeys and the flashes of colorful macaws create a symphony of sights and sounds that captivate all who venture into this hidden gem. Few tourists make it this far south, but those who do are rewarded with an immersive encounter with one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems.
The journey to reach this ecological haven is no small feat. While millions flock to Cancún's bustling resorts each year, only a fraction travel further south to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque. From there, the path becomes even less traveled as adventurers push deeper into the Lacandon rainforest, located another four hours southeast. Despite covering just a tiny fraction of Mexico's landmass, this forest is home to an astonishing array of flora and fauna. It shelters nearly half of the country’s butterfly species and a quarter of its animal population, including rare creatures like jaguars, spider monkeys, and tapirs. The dense canopy provides habitat for over 1,500 types of trees and hosts a third of Mexico’s bird species, making it a vital sanctuary for wildlife conservation.
This remarkable rainforest serves as a testament to the importance of preserving natural habitats. In an era where environmental concerns loom large, the Lacandon forest stands as a beacon of hope. Its ability to support such a vast array of life underscores the critical role that protected areas play in maintaining global biodiversity. By safeguarding these ecosystems, we not only protect countless species but also ensure a healthier planet for future generations. Exploring and appreciating such treasures encourages us to become stewards of the Earth, fostering a deeper connection with nature and promoting sustainable practices.
In the upcoming year, Intrepid Travel is set to unveil a series of unique travel experiences designed to promote wellness and mindfulness. These journeys span across diverse landscapes, from the serene mountains of Colombia to the icy wilderness of Greenland, offering travelers an opportunity to reconnect with nature and themselves. Each trip is thoughtfully crafted to cater to individual preferences, whether through physical challenges or cultural immersion. From hiking in Morocco’s Dades Valley to exploring ancient monasteries in India, these adventures promise to enrich both body and soul.
Exploring the World Through Mindful Movements
In the enchanting autumn of 2025, Intrepid invites adventurers to embark on transformative journeys that blend physical activity with cultural exploration. In the heart of Morocco, travelers can weave between majestic peaks in the Dades Valley, where they will be greeted by the warm hospitality of Amazigh families. The trek offers a glimpse into rural life, with homemade meals and stories shared around campfires.
Moving westward, Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains provide a perfect setting for digital detox. Over four days, hikers will traverse misty jungles to reach the Lost City of Teyuna, one of Colombia’s most significant archaeological sites. Along the way, encounters with Indigenous leaders and nights spent in mountain campsites offer a chance to slow down and reflect.
The vast wilderness of Greenland beckons those seeking a refreshing connection with nature. Summer’s bright skies and vibrant landscapes create an ideal backdrop for a two-day hiking adventure on Disko Island. Here, travelers can explore remote trails and stay at eco-lodges, all while basking in the midnight sun’s extended daylight hours.
Alaska’s expansive spaces invite visitors to immerse themselves in outdoor activities. Kayaking in Kachemak Bay State Park and hiking the Harding Icefield Trail offer opportunities to witness wildlife such as eagles, sea lions, and black bears. For a more intense experience, glacier hiking on Matanuska Glacier provides an up-close encounter with one of the largest glaciers in the United States.
In Scandinavia, Finland’s sauna culture takes center stage. Young travelers can enjoy traditional public saunas in Helsinki, followed by a plunge into the Baltic Sea—a unique fire and ice therapy experience. Meanwhile, in India’s Himalayas, trekkers can scale high-altitude trails, camping under starlit skies and visiting Tibetan Buddhist monasteries to deepen their spiritual connection.
Australia’s coastline offers a different kind of balance. Stand-up paddleboarding with a First Nations guide near Coffs Harbour provides not only a physical challenge but also a window into Aboriginal culture. This social enterprise supports local communities and preserves cultural heritage.
Peru’s dynamic landscape caters to thrill-seekers. The new Hike, Bike, Raft & SUP trip combines the Inca Trail, mountain biking, and water sports at high altitudes, creating unforgettable memories. Finally, Turkey’s turquoise waters invite relaxation aboard sailboats, with stops at historic sites like Cleopatra’s Bath and rejuvenating mud baths.
A Journey Beyond the Ordinary
These Intrepid trips for 2025 represent more than just travel; they are invitations to step away from the hustle of daily life and embrace moments of stillness and reflection. Whether through physical exertion or cultural exchange, each journey promises to leave a lasting impact on the traveler’s well-being. As we venture into these uncharted territories, we rediscover the power of nature and the richness of human connection, reminding us of the profound benefits that come from slowing down and being present in the moment.