In a bold and unconventional move, Coperni, a French fashion label, presented its latest collection on Sunday evening in Paris. The event was uniquely paired with a live gaming session featuring 200 participants playing Fortnite simultaneously. This unusual combination aimed to bridge the worlds of high fashion and video gaming, though it left some observers questioning the coherence between the two elements. The runway showcased sleek designs such as slinky pants and sailor tops, while the gamers were engrossed in their digital battles. Despite the apparent disconnect, the spectacle created an intriguing atmosphere that highlighted the growing influence of technology and gaming culture in the fashion industry.

The event took place at the Adidas Arena, where four rows of gaming stations lined the runway. As models strutted down the catwalk, the background hum of keyboards clacking and mouse clicks competed with the rhythmic tapping of heels on the floor. Attendees found themselves torn between admiring the clothing and watching the intense gameplay unfolding on multiple screens. One observer noted how deeply immersed some guests were in the game, barely noticing the fashion show happening right before their eyes.

Coperni’s co-founder Arnaud Vaillant explained that this concept was intended as a tribute to gaming culture, particularly from the 1990s. The idea was to celebrate the subculture associated with LAN parties—gatherings where people come together to play games on a shared network. However, the integration of these two distinct activities seemed more like a juxtaposition rather than a seamless blend. The fur jackets and elegant dresses had little to do with the virtual world of Fortnite, and vice versa. Nevertheless, the event succeeded in creating a chaotic yet captivating scene that drew attention to both industries.

The fusion of fashion and gaming may not have resulted in a profound statement about the intersection of art and technology. Instead, it offered a glimpse into the evolving relationship between traditional fashion shows and modern digital entertainment. While some attendees might have felt overwhelmed by the dual focus, others appreciated the novelty of experiencing two different forms of entertainment side by side. Ultimately, this unique event underscored the increasing importance of incorporating diverse cultural elements into fashion presentations, reflecting the broader trends shaping contemporary society.