Fashion Industry Voices Defiance Against Terrorism, Support For France

The capital of France — and the global hotspot for fashion — experienced gruesome, inhumane terrorist attacks on Friday that left at least 129 dead and more than 350 injured. Industry leaders have voiced their sadness, sincere remorse and feelings of confusion about the horrific Paris attacks.

"Everyone — we are all profoundly shocked by this tragedy. Our thoughts go to the victims, their families, their loved ones," François-Henri Pinault, chairman and chief executive officer of Kering, said. "This attack is an attack against our way of life, against our values, against liberty and against humanity. Under these circumstances, the most appropriate attitude is to continue living normally, by showing courage, solidarity and vigilance."

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Retailers, models and designers — including Cara Delevingne and Stella McCartney — spoke to the press this past weekend about the horror of the Paris attacks, and also shared support on social media.

Paris stores A.P.C., Zadig & Voltaire, American Vintage and Paul & Joe all remained open on Sunday, according to WWD. Michael Kors, Barbara Bui andVanessa Bruno kept the doors shut on their shops in the French city.

"Temporarily closed for security. Thank you for your understanding," read a sign in front of Uniqlo's flagship on Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, the U.K.-based publication reported.

"We all have to remember that Paris is the City of Light, and we can't let darkness kill our light," Balmain designer Olivier Rousteing told WWD about Friday's horrific attacks. "We need to be strong. We need to remember what happened on Nov. 13, but we also have to fight against it, to keep the hope, uphold our belief in freedom of speech and not be afraid."

"I think we are all going to come out stronger," he added. "I had a conversation with my mother yesterday and she told me we have to fight for the next generation, to preserve our beautiful world for them, to fight for freedom and for the values of France. We need to keep positive energy and go on living."

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