Coperni's Fall/Winter 2025 show was a departure from the norm, held at the adidas arena in Paris, a venue renowned for esports events. This setting allowed the brand to merge fashion with gaming culture in a way that was both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Instead of the typical front-row of influencers, celebrities, and media, Coperni innovatively seated 200 gamers in ergonomic gaming chairs, actively playing Fortnite and other games throughout the presentation.
This unconventional approach transformed the runway into a scene reminiscent of '90s LAN parties, with technical details that honored gaming's heyday. The integration of fashion and gaming culture extended beyond the set design and into the collection itself, showcasing a novel blend of technology and style.
The FW25 collection was rich with both subtle and explicit nods to gaming culture. Standout pieces included dresses made from puffy technical fabrics, reminiscent of sleeping bags used at all-night LAN parties. Small storage bags attached to tights and sequined dresses mirrored the utility holsters of Lara Croft from Tomb Raider. Additionally, the brand introduced Tamagotchi bags, making a playful reference to handheld gaming nostalgia.
The collection also drew inspiration from gaming-themed films. Motifs such as the dragon tattoo from The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo were woven throughout, and the high slit in Alice's dress from Resident Evil (2002) was reinterpreted in the opening look. These cinematic references enriched the collection, linking digital worlds to real-life fashion.
Coperni has consistently been at the forefront of merging technology with fashion, and this season's womenswear collection continued that tradition. By focusing on gaming—a field traditionally dominated by men—the brand challenges gender stereotypes and promotes inclusivity within the fashion industry.
Image: instagram.com
The show itself was a lesson in creating viral moments. Shortly after its conclusion, videos of the gamer-filled runway spread rapidly across social media, reinforcing Coperni's reputation for producing unforgettable spectacles.
This isn't the first time Coperni has made an impact at fashion week. The previous season, they concluded Paris Fashion Week with a fairytale-inspired show at Disneyland Paris. In past 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 a cultural phenomenon.
image: instagram.com
With its FW25 collection, Coperni once again showcases its ability to engage both online and offline audiences. In an era where the future of traditional runway shows is uncertain, the brand continues to innovate, 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, it's evident that Coperni has once again succeeded, cementing its status as a pioneer in modern fashion.