What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The iconic Parisian concept store Colette, originally founded by Colette Roussaux and Sarah Andelman, is set to reopen temporarily as a pop-up store during Paris Fashion Week from September 30 to October 9, 2025. This revival is part of the 'Virgil Abloh: The Codes' exhibition at the Grand Palais, which celebrates the work of the late designer Virgil Abloh. The exhibition, in partnership with Nike, showcases nearly twenty years of Abloh's creations, including 20,000 archival pieces such as prototypes, sketches, and objects from his personal collections. The Colette installation, developed in collaboration with Virgil Abloh Securities, aims to capture the essence of the original store by offering fashion and design items, rare books, and unexpected objects. This temporary reopening will feature exclusive creations by Abloh's close collaborators and brands rooted in streetwear culture.
Why It's Important?
The revival of Colette as a pop-up store for the Virgil Abloh exhibition highlights the enduring influence of Abloh in the fashion industry and the significance of concept stores in retail. Colette's temporary reopening serves as a tribute to Abloh's innovative approach to fashion, which often involved blending high fashion with streetwear and other cultural elements. This event underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating the legacy of influential designers like Abloh, who have shaped contemporary fashion. Additionally, the exhibition and pop-up store provide a platform for young designers and brands to showcase their work, reflecting Abloh's belief in the future of fashion being in the hands of emerging talents.
What's Next?
The temporary reopening of Colette may inspire other concept stores and exhibitions to explore similar collaborations, potentially leading to a resurgence in interest for conceptual retail spaces. As the exhibition progresses, it could attract significant attention from fashion enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the general public, further solidifying Abloh's impact on the fashion world. The involvement of brands like Cactus Jack and Stray Rats may also lead to new partnerships and collaborations within the industry, fostering innovation and creativity among designers and brands.
Beyond the Headlines
The revival of Colette for the Virgil Abloh exhibition highlights the cultural and artistic dimensions of fashion retail. Concept stores like Colette have historically played a crucial role in blending art, design, and commerce, offering consumers a unique shopping experience that goes beyond traditional retail. This event may prompt discussions about the future of retail spaces and the role of exhibitions in preserving and promoting the work of influential designers. Additionally, it raises questions about the sustainability and longevity of concept stores in an increasingly digital retail environment.
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