Summer’s not going anywhere – at least, not if Stephane Ashpool and Corona have anything to do with it. A Parisian born and raised, the fashion designer’s mission this season has been to bring sunny, beachy vibes to the city of lights. Partnering with Corona, a brand synonymous with relaxation and the spirit of the beach, the last two weeks have seen him do just that.
For Corona, this collaboration is a natural extension of the brand’s core ethos: celebrating moments of disconnect from the everyday hustle, and embracing the simple pleasures of life—like enjoying a cold beer as the sun sets over the City of Light. By teaming up with Ashpool, Corona brought its “This is Living” philosophy to the heart of Paris, blending the city’s vibrant energy with the laid-back, relaxed spirit that the brand embodies.
In recent years, Ashpool’s famous Jazzpool series has gained him notoriety in the city. Bringing a taste of the ‘20s to Fashion Week, the understated event series quickly became hot stuff among those in the know. With France’s capital on the world stage this summer, Ashpool transposed his jazzy party from the world of fashion onto sport, hosting a ‘sunset edition’ of Jazzpool in the midst of Paris’ athletic buzz, all while infusing it with Corona’s signature style of effortless enjoyment.
The events took place on a rooftop, totally re-modeled by the designer, above the Champs-Elysées. The space was geared to reflect the sun from every possible perspective: metallic silver curtains spanned the length of the terrace, fluttering in an evening breeze. Mirrors, spaced at intervals, caught the glare of a perfect sunset. A large screen behind the jazz band displayed an animated sunset of its own, complimenting the (real) sinking sun in the distance.
Inside and out, foliage was abundant. A beachy-style bar provided lime adorned drinks, wooden tables and rope finishes contributed to a nautical feel. Gorgeous snacks circulated, consumed by gorgeous people.
As guests arrived and TONAK supplied some housey beats, the sun set over the Arc de Triomphe. The list included of VIPs was extensive: actress Alice Belaïdi, chef Julien Sebbag, model Flora Coquerel, FashionTok darling Lyas—just a few of the big names that made an appearance in Paris’ 8th arrondissement. Things loosened up as the light dimmed and performers arrived – the rest of the evening was sountracked by saxophones and haunting vocals.
Despite the glamor and the stars, Jazzpool’s Sunset Edition was relaxed, warm—far from the pretentious catwalk it could have been. No surprise, really, given how deeply connected the designer is to the fabric and culture of Paris (and crucially, not just the shiny parts). In our recent Frontpage story, Ashpool tells us all about his intimate bond with the city, from his brand Pigalle, which he founded in 2008 and named after his home neighborhood, to the fact that he was asked to design the Olympic uniforms for the entire French team this year – a process so meticulous that it took over 100 hand-dyed tests at the Chanel atelier to get just the colours and vibrancy correct.
Looking out over Paris buzzing with the attention of the entire sporting world, Corona’s sunset editions of Jazzpool were the perfect accoutrement to the perfect Parisian summer. Plus, each guest took home a pair of specially-designed sandals. The legacy lives on.