Paris Haute Couture Week 2026: Balenciaga and Jean Paul Gaultier unveil bold new visionsDay 3 saw dazzling debuts from Pierpaolo Piccioli at Balenciaga and Duran Lantink at Jean Paul Gaultier, while Cardi B attended Robert Wun’s show wearing one of his playful new gownsDay three of the fall/winter 2026-27 haute couture shows in Paris marked two debuts: Pierpaolo Piccioli at Balenciaga and Duran Lantink at Jean Paul Gaultier. Both designers unveiled their first haute couture collections for the brands they recently joined.A hooded dress in purple chiffon at Balenciaga. Photo: HandoutWhen Balenciaga’s then creative director Demna unveiled his first haute couture line for the label in 2021, it was the first haute couture collection from the maison since 1968. Although founder Cristóbal Balenciaga is considered the ultimate couturier, the brand’s return to the couture calendar five years ago marked a significant shift for a label that had become known for its bestselling hoodies and sneakers.Expectations were high for Piccioli’s haute couture debut. When he was at Valentino, the Italian designer was behind some of the most beautiful haute couture shows in recent history.A balloon dress in black. Photo: HandoutFor Balenciaga’s 55th couture collection – unveiled on a sweltering morning in the courtyard of a university campus on the outskirts of Paris – Piccioli went back to the essence of couture.Gargantuan volumes, feather embellishments, balloon skirts and cocoon shapes dominated a collection that also showcased Piccioli’s masterful use of colours. From highlighter yellow to electric blue and deep purple, the clothes were a riot of colours.Colour reigned supreme. Photo: HandoutMonochrome looks such as a maxi dress in ivory and a balloon dress in black silk organdie demonstrated the power of cut and silhouette.Styling touches like opera gloves, crystal-embellished arm bracelets, ear cuffs and chandelier earrings added a touch of drama to the clean lines of the garments. One model carried a version of Le City bag – one of Balenciaga’s signature items – in shiny silver metal-and-rose gold crystal mesh.