THE BRANDS REVOLUTIONISING FASHION

Whether splashed across the media or recognised by those in the know, certain brands - led by their designers - are revolutionising our relationship with fashion and style. Here are just some of the many brands that inspire us.

Among the most influential is Balenciaga. Under the artistic direction of Demna, the legendary fashion house is full of surprises, while continuing to adhere to the style codes established by Cristóbal Balenciaga himself, such as the beauty of black and the impact of volume and shape. The brand's accessories are the perfect example of this, like the oversized Triple S sneakers, chunky Croc-style boots and bags available in many black variations.

Still relatively unknown in France, Vanina is an up-and-coming label from Lebanon, determined to give us products that are pretty and beautifully designed. Its creators (and childhood friends) bring us bags that look like jewels, drawing their inspiration from art, nature, positivity and femininity. All while promoting job creation for women, upcycling and collaboration with local suppliers.

Another recent addition at Monnier is Y-3, the fusion of two major forces on the fashion scene: sports equipment manufacturer Adidas and legendary designer Yohji Yamamoto. The result is a clever mix of sporty pieces and couture influences, updating sportswear with a sleek, contemporary and gender-neutral twist.

As well as bringing us new styles, some designers have set their sights on more sustainable consumption. Take Mats Rombaut, for example, whose eponymous brand is focused on making eco-friendly shoes. From coconut shells to pineapple “leather”, and upcycled materials, there's something for everyone and plenty for the planet, too.

And yet, while we undoubtedly owe some of tomorrow's trends to these virtuosos of fashion, let's not forget that many others come to us straight from the street (and social media). Though Ugg's recent comeback is partly a result of its collaboration with designer Telfar Clemens, it is our favourite IG fashionistas who have taken the brand's slippers from fug(g) to fashion... The same goes for Crocs, the much-pilloried brand that's been transformed from hideous to hit thanks to collaborations with pop stars like Justin Bieber.