Rabanne to Unveil the ‘World’s Most Expensive Bag’ at Spring 2025 Paris Runway Show
Rabanne is set to make a statement at the Spring 2025 Paris Runway Show with the reveal of the world’s “most expensive bag.” This exquisite piece is a tribute to the iconic gold and diamond dress crafted by Paco Rabanne for French fashion icon Françoise Hardy in 1968.
Following a high-profile moment dressing Chappell Roan in medieval-inspired chainmail at the MTV VMA Awards, Rabanne will showcase three extraordinary accessories at its runway show in Paris this Wednesday. These exclusive items are poised to capture the attention of Hollywood and fashion enthusiasts alike.
The centerpiece of the collection is a unique 1969 Nano bag, crafted in 18-karat gold. It draws inspiration from Paco Rabanne’s legendary “most expensive dress” made from gold and diamonds. This one-of-a-kind creation pays homage to the original piece, which was designed for Françoise Hardy and showcased Rabanne's revolutionary use of unconventional materials like metal, paper, plastics, and gold.
Paco Rabanne’s innovative approach to fashion began in 1966 with his debut collection, “12 Unwearable Dresses in Contemporary Materials.” Since then, his avant-garde designs have become synonymous with the brand. Today, creative director Julien Dossena continues this legacy with collections that honor Rabanne’s pioneering spirit.
Dossena's latest project references a historic moment for the brand when Hardy wore the gold dress, made from 1,000 gold tiles and adorned with 300 carats of diamonds, to a jewelry trade fair in Paris. Arriving in an armored truck with a security escort, she stunned onlookers and the media, creating a lasting impression that reverberated around the world.
The 1969 Golden Bag, set to grace the runway on Wednesday, required over 100 hours of meticulous craftsmanship by Maison Rabanne and French artisan jeweler Arthus Bertrand. It will be priced at an impressive 250,000 euros.
In addition to the Golden Bag, Rabanne will introduce two more luxurious creations, crafted in collaboration with renowned heritage artisanal workshops. The Handcrafted 1969 Glass Bag features Murano glass pastilles created by Venini, a Venetian glassmaking house renowned for its marbled color effects. The Handcrafted 1969 Ceramic Bag, meanwhile, is made with ceramic discs by Astier de Villatte, a Parisian ceramics workshop that upholds 18th-century manufacturing traditions.
“These were truly exceptional pieces to collaborate on,” said Dossena. Each bag will be available for order at the Paris Rabanne boutique following the runway show, offering a rare opportunity for collectors and fashion aficionados to own a piece of this historic collection.
