Rejecting the traditional rules of seasonal trends and shifting designer statements, the likes of Gucci and Balenciaga have rewritten the fashion rulebook their own way, showing that having a single, infallible vision can be the most radical act of all. Under the guiding hand of Alessandro Michele, Gucci’s tenacious pursuit of the fun, eclectic and unabashedly luxurious has created a world we’re all tempted to delve into (particularly on these dull January days). Meanwhile, Balenciaga continues to reign as the leader in irreverent, dramatic style, drawing on influences from the every day (from Ikea carrier bags to dads on the school run – yes, even they get the Balenciaga treatment this season) for collections that don’t just reflect the zeitgeist, but push it a step forward.