Coperni's Fall/Winter 2025 show was a groundbreaking event that defied convention. Hosted at the adidas arena in Paris, a venue renowned for esports competitions, the show masterfully blended the worlds of fashion and gaming, creating an atmosphere that was both nostalgic and futuristic. Instead of the typical front-row filled with influencers, celebrities, and media, Coperni introduced a unique twist: 200 gamers seated in ergonomic gaming chairs, actively engaging with Fortnite and other games throughout the presentation.
This innovative approach transformed the runway into a vibrant scene reminiscent of the ‘90s LAN parties, complete with technical elements that celebrated gaming's golden age. The integration of fashion and gaming extended beyond the setting; it was woven into the very fabric of the collection, showcasing a novel perspective on the synergy between technology and style.
The FW25 collection was rich with both subtle and overt nods to gaming culture. Standout pieces included dresses made from puffy technical fabrics, reminiscent of sleeping bags used during all-night LAN gatherings. Accessories like small storage bags attached to tights and sequined dresses paid homage to the utility holsters of Lara Croft from Tomb Raider. Additionally, the brand's newly introduced Tamagotchi bags made their runway debut, playfully referencing handheld gaming nostalgia.
The influence of gaming-inspired films was also evident. Motifs such as the dragon tattoo from The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo were integrated throughout the collection, while the high slit in Alice's dress from Resident Evil (2002) was creatively reinterpreted in the opening look. These cinematic references added a layer of depth, effectively bridging the digital and real-world fashion realms.
Coperni has consistently been at the forefront of exploring the intersection of technology and fashion, and this season's womenswear collection is a testament to that. By focusing on gaming—a domain traditionally dominated by men—the brand challenges gender stereotypes and promotes inclusivity in fashion.
Image: instagram.com
The show itself was a masterclass in generating viral moments. Shortly after the event concluded, videos of the gamer-filled runway flooded social media, reinforcing Coperni's reputation for creating unforgettable spectacles.
This isn't the first time Coperni has made a significant impact at fashion week. Last season, they concluded Paris Fashion Week with a fairytale-inspired showcase at Disneyland Paris. In previous years, they've captivated audiences with innovations like spray-on dresses, robot dogs, and glass handbags. Each presentation pushes the boundaries of what a fashion show can be, establishing Coperni as more than just a label—it's a cultural phenomenon.
image: instagram.com
With its FW25 collection, Coperni once again demonstrates its prowess in captivating both online and offline audiences. At a time when the future of traditional runway shows is uncertain, the brand continues to innovate, seamlessly blending creativity, technology, and storytelling into an experience that resonates well beyond the fashion industry.
As social media continues to buzz with reactions to the gamer-infused runway, one thing is clear: Coperni has once again solidified its position as a trailblazer in modern fashion.