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An introspective journey into the desert at 3.Paradis
In the sweltering heat of Paris, Émeric Tchatchoua takes us on an inner desert journey with Steps to Nowhere, his Spring/Summer 2026 collection for 3.Paradis. Among scorching sands, search for meaning, and ghostly silhouettes, the designer conjures up the universe of The Little Prince to craft a colourful wardrobe, always infused with a resolutely streetwear spirit.
Published on June 26, 2025. Updated on July 1, 2025.
The Little Prince inspires the 3.Paradis show
After bringing a quiet storm to fashion last January, Émeric Tchatchoua comes back with a new vision for menswear in a burning desert this time. On Tuesday, June 25th, as a heatwave hit the French capital, the founder of 3.Paradis made his models walk down the catwalk in slow motion across a sand-covered set. Like a mirage, the scene evokes the crossing, the inner pilgrimage.
“I think we all are that traveler lost in the desert, looking for meaning, searching for purpose in our lives,” the Paris-based designer shares backstage. It is this quest, tinged with introspection, that led him to dig up the imaginary world of The Little Prince [the best-selling novel by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, published in 1943, ed.] as an emotional compass. “The Little Prince is the beginning of the story. That character who crashes in the desert with his plane and wanders around in search of meaning.”
A jacket covered in watches evokes the weight of time. Another, with crumpled sleeves, appears frozen in the heat of the day. Always a staple, tailoring merges with streetwear in a more refined balance. The wardrobe is gaining maturity without losing its DNA. As it is often the case with 3.Paradis, symbols mingle with personal references.
Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, French Montana… the runway cast
Designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, one of Émeric Tchatchoua’s main inspirations, joined the cast of the show with his signature energy: “We’re both admirers of each other’s work. This collection is about The Little Prince, and Jean-Charles is an eternal child.” But that wasn’t the only standout appearance – rapper French Montana also took to the runway. “He’s one of my favorite artists and we got into contact a few months ago.”
In addition to these special guests, two new collaborations showcased the versatility of the man at 3.Paradis. J.M. Weston shoes were revamped in fuchsia and Tuareg blue, and a sun-kissed capsule was designed in collaboration with swimwear brand Vilebrequin. “We envisioned an Eden, a paradise, and a special line dedicated to The Little Prince, which is the narrative arc of this show.”
In order to bring this Spring/Summer 2026 collection to a majestic close, the label presented a sublime and disarming embroidered wedding gown. Its signature quadruple belt served as a reminder that even on the brink of ecstasy, 3.Paradisnever forgets its urban roots.
A year after winning the special prize from ANDAM, Émeric Tchatchoua remains grounded. Yet, his eyes are set on the stars. “The real goal is to keep making people dream, to keep inspiring them,” he smirked.
The looks from the 3.Paradis Spring/Summer 2026 show
