The Most Striking Runway Shows Of All Time

Catwalks do not always feature the same old runway walk over a delayed program. Many fashion shows have left even their front row audiences awe-struck. 

Designers and creative directors have been personalizing runways for many years. Several memorable shows leave a lasting impression for years.  

Whether it’s dancers on catwalks or lavender field runways, we love the creativity and magic in fashion. Here is a rundown of some of the most striking catwalk moments of all time. 

Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 1998

John Galliano pulled off a perfect night at the opera with this theatrical fashion show. The dramatic show featured an orchestra, dancers, and extras dressed as figures from the most outstanding opera’s. 

The show was hosted at the historic Palais Garnier opera house in Paris. This was one of Galliano’s most memorable performances with Dior.

Rick Owens Womens Spring/Summer 2014 

Rick Owens hired a group of step dancers instead of models for this entertaining show. The active runway broke catwalk cliches with its unique delivery. The featured dancers were also women of all colors, shapes, sizes, and ages, making the show extremely diverse. 

Jacquemus Spring/Summer 2021

French designer Simon Porte Jacquemus stunned crowds once again with his wheat field runway show. The beautifully dressed models walked down miles of tall wheat in this stunning catwalk. 

Jacquemus previously hosted a runway show on a lavender field, which also blew audiences away.

Chanel Spring/Summer 2012 Ready to Wear Show

Karl Lagerfeld pulled off a perfect aquarium dream world for this ready to wear runway show. Chanel transformed The Grans Palais in Paris with all-white props and Florence Welch as the Venus of Botticelli. 

Fashion lovers were in awe of this stunning exhibition of Lagerfeld’s creativity. The man was a true fashion genius. 

Alexander McQueen Women’s Autumn/Winter 2009

This excessive Alexander McQueen show had models parade around a pile of junk. Old chairs, sets, and televisions formed a centerpiece for the extraordinary sci-fi inspired showcase. 

Models wore extremely over-lined lipstick and pale complexion makeup, which added to the absurdity.