Paris Fashion Week: Spanish Designer Juana Martín Pays Tribute to Andalusian Heritage at Paris Haute Couture Week

Spanish designer Juana Martín delivered a cultural statement at the Official Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week with the unveiling of Fervor, her seventh Couture collection. The show, staged on July 8th, paid homage to Martín’s Spanish roots, particularly the deep spiritual and cultural traditions of her native Andalusia.

This season, Martín drew inspiration from one of Andalusia’s most emblematic and emotive traditions — religious fervor. Interpreted as a collective act of faith and a deeply ingrained expression of identity, this theme was brought to life on the Parisian runway.

Audiences were transported into the heart of a solemn Holy Week procession through a presentation that blended devotion with bold artistry. Maintaining her signature black and white colour palette, Martín infused the collection with striking jewellery and unexpected couture materials. The designer's vision conjured vivid imagery of petal showers, sacred iconography, and candlelit processions — all key elements in the Andalusian Semana Santa tradition.

At the heart of the collection was ruán, a deep black fabric traditionally used in the garments of nazarenos — penitents clad in long robes and tall conical hoods. This textile served as the emotional and aesthetic foundation of the designs, complemented by references to the ornate adornments of Christs and Virgins featured in processions throughout the region.

With Fervor, Martín reinforced her groundbreaking role in fashion history as the only Spanish woman to have been granted membership to the prestigious Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode. She follows in the footsteps of legendary designers Cristóbal Balenciaga and Paco Rabanne. Her achievements were further recognised this year with Spain’s Gold Medal of Merit in the Fine Arts — a landmark moment for Spanish fashion.

The show was supported by a team of creative talents: Rafael Maqueda and Menchu Benítez led the artistic direction of hair and makeup, using premium products from ICON. Málaga de Moda once again lent its support to showcase Andalusian craftsmanship, while Cordoba-based healthcare company Plenitas reaffirmed its commitment to promoting regional talent. Footwear was provided by Italian designer Francesca Bellavita, known for her artisanal creations.

Juana Martín’s Fervor not only captivated the fashion elite in Paris but also reaffirmed the power of cultural heritage in contemporary couture. 

Photos Credit: Juana Martín / Totem Fashion