Look of the Week: Gigi Hadid Struts the Runway in a Daring DHL Tape Dress
By BlogsHorizon
Gigi Hadid made waves on the runway during the Vetements show at Paris Fashion Week, donning a striking mini dress crafted entirely from DHL-branded packing tape. This bold fashion statement not only turned heads but also sparked conversations about the innovative use of unconventional materials in luxury fashion.
A Playful Twist on Fashion
In a striking display of creativity, Hadid’s strapless tape dress featured the bright yellow and red branding of DHL, and she completed her look with matching heeled pumps wrapped in the same adhesive material. Social media erupted with playful commentary, with one user quipping, “She delivered,” while another humorously challenged FedEx to step up their game.
A Trend with History
This isn't the first time tape has taken center stage in fashion. Designers have long experimented with unconventional textiles. Raf Simmons used printed tape to cinch models' waists back in 2017, while Jeremy Scott incorporated taped details into his Moschino collection. Kim Kardashian made headlines in 2022, appearing at the Balenciaga show almost entirely covered in police tape, showcasing the material's versatility and allure.
From Utility to Fashion Statement
Duct tape, originally invented during World War II by Vesta Stoudt to package ammunition boxes, has evolved from a utilitarian tool to a fashion staple. Its quirky appeal was popularized in the 2010s with duct tape dresses becoming a recurring challenge on “Project Runway.” Even Lady Gaga made a statement in her “Telephone” music video, wearing caution tape as a daring outfit.
The Future of Tape in Fashion
While Iowa State University’s duct tape fashion show drew attention in 2011 and faced cancellation in 2015, the resurgence of brands like Vetements and Balenciaga suggests that this unique material still has a place on the runway. With Gigi Hadid leading the charge, it seems the fashion world is ready to embrace the tape trend once again.
Stay tuned for more daring looks in our ongoing "Look of the Week" series!