SS17 Oversized Blue Mandarin Shirt

In 2017, Haider Ackermann brought a vibrant punk energy to Paris Fashion Week, delivering one of his most astonishing collections to date. Known for his masterful use of color and his ability to make even the wildest ideas feel elegant and appealing, Ackermann took his creativity to new heights this season. He left behind the dark, brooding tones of previous collections and leaped to the opposite end of the color spectrum, presenting a lineup full of bright, electric hues and bold contrasts.

This time, the decadence and extravagance he typically conveyed through dark palettes and lush textures took on a new form, defined by brilliant silks, neon accents, and a fearless use of color. It was a collection that felt alive, bursting with youthful energy and a sense of rebellion. “I have this gang ofyoung kids around me. And they are full-on. And I wanted to capture their energy," Ackermann explained. "They are just kids who want to dance and party and be happy. They don’t have the heaviness of the world.”

Inspired by this unburdened spirit, Ackermann infused his designs with a lightheartedness that felt fresh and playful. Oversized silk kimono shirts, fitted leather pants, and bombers in electrifying colors all exuded the carefree attitude of youth. This was a celebration of freedom and joy, a departure from his usual brooding elegance, yet unmistakably true to Ackermann's signature style.

The youthfulness he presented was distinctly Parisian—equal parts rebellious and refined, with a touch of bourgeois sophistication. Yet, it was beautiful in an almost visceral way, with each piece channeling the essence of a generation unafraid to stand out. Ackermann’s 2017 collection was a daring exploration of color and form, a testament to his versatility and his commitment to pushing boundaries in fashion.