5 Designer cars for next years fashion week
Written by Jack Passey | 11th October 2024 | Car Tales
With the Tiktok generation in full swing, trends and fashions come and go faster than most of these cars accelerate (especially No.2 on the list). Fashion is a flash in the pan, while style can stand the test of time. I like to think of myself as a style conscious man (he says sitting here in a white t-shirt and navy corduroy trousers), so I thought I’d take a look at style collaborations that will stand the test of time. Not a fashion fad that will be forgotten like the last reel you watched.
None of these are investment pieces, but if you do find yourself with one, chances are you’ll have something rarer than any collector has stashed away.
Peugeot 205 Lacoste
If you thought their polos were expensive, imagine what happens when you slap their logo on the side of a car! Originating in 1984, Peugeot sponsored Roland Garros for his professional career. Playing on the Tennis whites theme, all cars were painted white, with matching wheel covers to boot! Stickers placed on the rear pillars that pointed to the network of the tennis court, while floor mats were finished in a rich emerald, nodding to both the Lacoste logo and grass courts. As you can imagine the car was an instant hit, continuing for another three years! Sadly there are none left registered on UK roads, but they are out there somewhere.
Truly a car spawned from the 80’s, I bet it came with a poster of Fiona Butler in the glove box!
2. Hermès and Citroën
Hermès have recently tainted their image by getting into bed with Bugatti on a Veyron or two but deep down they still have an eye for style. In 2008 they took style to a whole new level, by wiping a fecal coloured brush over none other than the class transcending 2CV. Celebrating 60 years of the Deux Chevaux, Hermès tailored the car like an exquisite suit. The 1989 2CV 6 Spécial, repainted in brown and bestowed with a natural leather trim on the door facings, interior rear view mirror, gear knob, steering wheel and driver's sun visor. If that wasn’t bourgeois enough, the two seats are upholstered in Hermès grey-beige cotton canvas and natural leather. As a finishing touch, the bonnet and interior trim at the rear of the vehicle also feature Hermès cotton canvas.
If you think about it, this is how most people now spec their 911!
3. Gucci and Cadillac Seville
Vulgar opulence in excess. Two brands with questionable taste collide together, creating something that actually… I find immensely attractive. 1978 the two brands spawned what came to be known as the Gucci Caddy, a tarted up example of GM’s flagship saloon. As with most things, Gucci couldn’t stop designing, touching literally everything in sight. Gucci bonnet ornament, Gucci wire wheels, Gucci steering wheel, headrests, armrests, roof lining, floor mats need I go on? Actually rhetorical question, yes I must. As Gucci saw fit to supply the car with a five-piece Gucci luggage set. If you could sum up this era of the USA and its consumption of money, this car would be where you end up. Behind the wheel and blinded by the gold Gucci logo, reflecting every ray of sunlight into your retinas, just incase you forgot who designed it.
I hate Gucci, and I hate this car. I hate what they stand for. I want one.
4. Fiat 500 Riva
Fiat have always loved a new fashionable 500, much like next seasons accessories, there will be another one along in a minute. But the Riva was the pinnacle. Teaming up with luxury yacht manufacturer Riva to create this special edition, including a unique paint used known as Sera blue, a double aquamarine line running around the middle of the car. Introducing premium quality woods as used by Riva. Mahogany and Maple for the dash and gear knob.
I see these occasionally and if I lived in London, I would absolutely have one. Until I remember how much they are.
5. Paul Smith Porsche 911
Not strictly from a manufacturer, but it absolutely deserves a mention. Conjured from the mind of legendary English designer Paul Smith, I personally think this puts most restomod Porsche’s to shame. A truly stunning less is more design, relying entirely on block colour and shape, or lack there of. Featuring Paul’s signature Artist Stripe, both on the inside and out, the cars simplistic lines really come to life.
No witty comments here. Just glad it exists.
