Pharrell Williams opens Paris fashion week with giant waterfall show

Pop star and Louis Vuitton designer Pharrell Williams kicked off Paris Fashion Week with a dramatic display, using a giant artificial waterfall as the backdrop for his 2027 spring-summer collection.

The show, held outdoors at the Cité Universitaire, embraced American surf and skate culture. Models walked across sand, sporting an eclectic mix of denim, hoodies, and flashy jackets. Many outfits featured low-cut sneakers with silhouettes reminiscent of the Californian brand Vans. Some models also carried surfboards or small monogram bags, adding to the laid-back, coastal vibe.

However, the event unfolded under the oppressive conditions of a record-breaking heatwave gripping France. Temperatures remained above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) around 9 p.m. local time, even as Paris experienced daytime highs near 40 C (104 F). This extreme heat caused visible discomfort, with attendees and staff seen gasping and sweating throughout the show. The sweltering weather also led to the closure of tourist sites like the Eiffel Tower.