For those of you who love the fantasy aspect of high fashion as I do, I am happy to announce that it is that time of year again- Paris Haute Couture Week! The most prestigious and imaginative designers take to the Paris runways to present avant-garde, mesmerizing fashion shows that push the boundaries of everyday street wear. Haute Couture is the ultimate; the most decadent form of high fashion design. With intricate hand beading, one-of-a-kind structures and often only a few copies of each design made in the world, these are the fashion moments that go down in history.
In fact, many designs you see at Haute Couture shows end up on the red carpets and in the most spectacular editorial spreads. This year in Paris, designers have toned down the “out of this world” and have brought the couture shows to a more glamorous note. Think more fashionable than fashion forward. And after studying each designer’s work come down the runway, it was clear that these trends were definitely in: metallic accents, color palettes of soft hues juxtaposed with all black looks, and an elegant nod to a vintage aesthetic ruled the catwalks. Let’s take a look at some of the most impressive Haute Couture collections that have presented in Paris thus far!
Atelier Versace
“Glam in Couture”- In true Versace nature, even the most fashionable couture week in Paris is taken to an extreme sex appeal. In tropical hues and iridescent beaded accents, models hit the runway in the ultimate feminine collection.
Giambattista Valli
“Natural and Fantastical”- This enchanted collection took a whimsical feel into dramatic territory by combining floral prints and voluminous ruffles and silhouettes. Using hues found in nature such as forest green, lilac and rose red and adding decorative butterfly accents, this was a collection made for the editorial pages.
Valentino
“Dark Couture”- Known for soft, delicate gowns that celebrities from Dakota Fanning to Jennifer Anniston frequently wear on the red carpet, Valentino steered this couture collection in a very different route. Adding some vamp appeal and darker shades, there was a blend of the new and old flavors of Valentino Couture. Staying true to their ethereal aesthetic, the collection included billowing silhouettes, detailed brocades and plenty of sheer accents.
Chanel
“New Vintage”- Taking on one of 1928′s favorite mantra’s, Chanel’s couture show embodied a theme of old versus new. Classic silhouettes in soft greys, pastel pinks, taupe and ivory tones were made modern with metallic accents and crystal embroidered garments. Karl Lagerfeld really outdid himself with a breathtaking bridal gown at the end of his collection of over 60 looks!
Armani Prive
“Day to Night Couture”- Inspired by day to night dressing, designer Giorgio Armani fused daytime concepts into elegant evening wear. The “day” looks (let’s face it, no one wears couture out to lunch) came in shades of blue, lilac and mauve while the nighttime looks were done in inky blacks and midnight blues. Again, the metallic accents and dramatic accessories made for a glamorous catwalk.
Elie Saab
“Imperial Splendor”- Perhaps one of my favorite designers to see worn on the red carpet, Elie Saab once again presented an opulent, elegant show of gowns that brought the usual “Saab Splendor”. Crystal adorned silk organza and lace detailing in a luscious yet minimalistic palette of champagne, peacock and sky blues, and black all accented with antiqued gold, made for a whole fashion show of future red carpet best dressed moments.
Jean Paul Gaultier
“Monsieur Couture”- Now this is what Haute Couture week is all about! The king of couture, Jean Paul Gaultier, presented his collection in Paris as a feminine approach to menswear. With a clear theme of androgynous ensembles, I fell in love with the rich glamour that came out in every single look. Featuring top hats, tuxedo jackets, leather vests and sheer tops, and of course, metallic accents, this collection is one to inspire! So many of the trends and styles seen in this fashion show alone have the ability to create unique new trends for the upcoming ready to wear seasons.
Which designer had your favorite couture moment?
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