Music is an indispensable element of any successful runway show. Beyond the exquisite clothing and meticulous set designs, the music sets the tone, amplifies the designer’s vision, and creates an immersive experience for the audience. Fashion Show Songs are carefully curated to resonate with the collection’s theme, mood, and overall message, turning a presentation into a performance. This season, from romantic ballads to edgy electronic beats, the soundtracks of the Fall/Winter 2023 fashion shows were as diverse and captivating as the collections themselves.
Designers often spend considerable time selecting the perfect fashion show songs, seeking tracks that embody the essence of their new collections. These songs act as a muse, setting the mood and becoming an anthem for the grand reveal. For Carolina Herrera, Rihanna’s soulful ‘Love On The Brain’ underscored the romantic and dreamy silhouettes presented. Meanwhile, at Burberry, Daniel Lee’s debut was energized by the enigmatic electronic sounds of Burial, perfectly complementing the collection’s new direction. Balmain amplified its classic elegance with Frank Sinatra, while Gabriela Hearst created a cinematic atmosphere with live music, enhancing the intimacy of her collection.
Here are some of the standout fashion show songs from the Fall/Winter 2023 season that are worth adding to your playlist, capturing the essence of the runway in sound.
Coach’s Fall/Winter 2023 collection, embodying freedom and self-expression in the vibrant New York City setting, was perfectly underscored by Placebo’s ‘Every You Every Me’. The youthful energy of the models, styled in patchwork leather and metallic shearling coats, was mirrored in the song’s blend of effervescence and cool nonchalance, making it an ideal anthem for the brand’s youthful spirit.
Gabriela Hearst consistently elevates her runway shows with live music, creating an immersive and intimate experience. For her Fall/Winter 2023 collection, folk singer Sumbuck’s unreleased track, ‘The City’, filled the venue with raspy vocals and mesmerizing melodies played on violins and electric guitar. This live performance deepened the collection’s essence, highlighting the designer’s focus on femininity and craftsmanship through a cinematic soundscape.
Conner Ives’s Fall/Winter 2023 “Magnolia” collection was a vibrant homage to the iconic fashion scene of the 90s and 00s. Lil Mama’s energetic track ‘Lip Gloss’ perfectly captured the high-spirited party vibe of that era, complementing the collection’s diaphanous silk slips, upcycled tees, and playful tailoring. The song choice amplified the nostalgic and fun atmosphere of the show, transporting the audience back to a time of bold fashion statements.
Ahluwalia’s Fall/Winter 2023 collection intricately wove music into the very fabric of the garments. With designs featuring shapes of guitars, album art, and the brand’s signature wave motif, the collection drew heavily from the music scene. Missy Elliott’s powerful anthem ‘Work It’ provided a visually and sonically synergistic runway experience, its surging beats mirroring the dynamic energy of the collection and the models’ walk.
Daniel Lee’s debut as creative director for Burberry marked a new chapter for the iconic brand. To signify this fresh start, the hauntingly beautiful track ‘Young Death’ by Burial was chosen as a fashion show song, adding an element of intrigue and modernity to the collection’s unveiling. The electronic soundscape enhanced the novelty and forward-thinking direction of Burberry under Lee’s vision.
Kim Jones’s Fendi Fall/Winter 2023 collection explored the multifaceted modern woman with a blend of contrasts. Pleated kilts worn over pants and delicate lace juxtaposed with sharp tailored shirts created a beguiling tension. Julee Cruise’s ethereal vocals in ‘Falling’ intensified this atmosphere, casting a haunting and captivating spell over the runway, perfectly aligning with the collection’s sophisticated and enigmatic nature.
Jil Sander’s Fall/Winter 2023 collection signaled a departure from the brand’s familiar codes, with designers Luke and Lucie Meier presenting a more individualistic and eccentric vision. Björk’s unique love song ‘All Neon Like’ served as the ideal fashion show song to christen this newfound eccentricity. Its unconventional soundscape complemented the collection’s diverse pieces, from motorcycle jackets to parachute dresses adorned with crushed metal flowers, underscoring the brand’s evolving aesthetic.
Matthieu Blazy’s Bottega Veneta Fall/Winter 2023 runway reaffirmed his creative prowess, showcasing a delightful array of innovative ensembles. Donna Lewis’s upbeat and joyful track ‘I Love You Always Forever’ provided the perfect finale, leaving the fashion set feeling uplifted. The song’s ebullient rhythm matched the collection’s dynamic energy and optimistic spirit, ending the show on a high note.
Olivier Rousteing’s Balmain Fall/Winter 2023 collection was a masterclass in atelier craftsmanship, featuring sculptural tailoring, opulent shapes, and intricate detailing. Frank Sinatra’s timeless classic ‘My Way’ eloquently conveyed the collection’s essence. Sinatra’s soulful voice and the song’s intimate feel enhanced the show’s dramatic French glamour and timeless elegance, creating a sophisticated and memorable experience.
Carolina Herrera’s breathtaking presentation of dreamy, flouncy silhouettes was beautifully complemented by Rihanna’s ‘Love On The Brain’. The song’s soul, passion, and romance mirrored the opulent craftsmanship of Wes Gordon’s designs. Rihanna’s hypnotizing delivery made it a perfect fashion show song to enhance the collection’s romantic and luxurious feel.
