The Row’s Parisian Salon: A Sensory Experience Without Mannequins
Walking into The Row’s Parisian salons, the first thing that captures your attention is the pleasant scent wafting through the air and the beautiful ikebana floral arrangements that adorn the space. However, upon closer inspection, you may notice something unusual – there are no mannequins in sight this season.
Normally, during non-runway visits, mannequins are strategically placed to showcase The Row’s impeccable style and craftsmanship. But this time, the focus was on a sculptural clothing rack designed by Julian Schnabel, showcasing Look 24 – a vintage silk shantung pajama ensemble paired with a cashmere sweater vest and elegant low pumps named Liisa. The clothes themselves seemed to blend seamlessly into the artistic display, inviting interpretation and exploration.
While the absence of mannequins may have been surprising, there were certainly standout pieces to admire. A striking yellow cape, a luxurious cashmere coat, a versatile men’s trench with a removable flannel lining, and the structured Georgia and Amber bags all caught the eye. Mark Kean’s photo series captured the essence of the collection, translating the “lived-in” narrative into artful images reminiscent of vintage editorials.
The lookbook, predominantly black-and-white, highlighted the understated elegance of The Row’s designs. From men’s and women’s white underpinnings to jersey pieces with a slub texture, the collection exuded a sense of effortless sophistication. Layering played a key role, blurring the lines between outerwear and loungewear, elevated with the addition of heels.
As The Row delves into lifestyle territory with a homewares collection previewed during Milan Design Week, the brand’s evolution becomes apparent. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026, The Row’s commitment to simplicity and quality remains unwavering. Perhaps, amidst all the refinement and sophistication, what is missing is a deeper connection to Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, the visionaries behind the brand.
