Above: Giambattista Valli wows with his second Haute Couture show. Now an official member of the exclusive Chambre Syndicale, Valli's take on hedonistic romance has re-established the meaning of pure exquisiteness.
It's that time of the year when the sophisticated lovers of all things beautiful gather to witness a parade of what the city of Paris does best: displaying spectacular craftsmanship and creating one-of-a-kind pieces. Spring/Summer Haute Couture Week, organised by La Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, drew to an end yesterday. Here are a few of the gems that reminded what an art form Haute Couture truly is...
Givenchy
Consistently re-affirming the Givenchy identity and woman, Riccardo Tisci has this time induced a certain yet powerful restraint into his gowns. With a more neutral palette, the alligator jacket, oversized earrings and nose rings have, among others, become rather unbeatable statement pieces. The warrior princess has never looked so graceful.
Christian Dior
Although the head designer is still unnamed, Bill Gaytten has been leading the design team with conviction of going back to basics. The collection was an ode to the New Look with the added sheer affect and layers of greys screaming Lauren Bacall's name.
Iris van Herpen
Dutch prodigy van Herpen demonstrated without difficulty the definition of what a wearable sculpture is. Or 3D couture. From wooden skeleton remains to octopus inspirations, no wonder she goes by the motto 'no rules apply'...
Chanel
Introducing Air Chanel: the only airline where it is custom to wear ranges of true blues, from the darkest navy to the lightest pastel. Models strutted down the aisle of what appeared to be a Boeing 747. The 'Parisian Punk' (albeit revisited) is what Karl Lagerfeld seemed to have in mind for this collection. In other words, 'fly in beads, paillettes and tulle, and the sky is yours'.
Jean Paul Gaultier
French Can Can meets Amy Winehouse. We couldn't expect a more unusual combination from Mr. Gaultier. Feminine and flamboyant all the way, lace veils, multicoloured corsets and ballroom dresses were stronger than ever. And as always, throughout the collection ran the ever present west African tribalism reference.
Valentino
The house's designing duo Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri delivered a wardrobe that would suit the entire cast for a remake of A Little House On The Prairie. With an added dose of glamour of course. Romantic prints, bejeweled camisoles and lace sleeves are some of the treasures the pair have brought to the epic legacy.
Alexis Mabille
Alexis Mabille's love for flora is always seen on his Couture runways, and this collection brought each flower in his mind to life. A rainbow of colours, displayed on metallic suits, bodycon dresses and sheer gowns meant not a single plant was neglected. A most memorable living garden.
Atelier Versace
Last seen in 2004, Donatella Versace has brought structured glamour into the midst of designers favouring a more demure and flowy look. With sleek hair back, a peek of golden armour and citrus explosions, the power woman is more present than ever. We're happy to have her back.
Tania Al-Farouki
