PARIS FASHION WEEK COUTURE FALL 2012
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger Photographer: George Whylie Videographer: Maxine NolanElegance abounds……Ooh La La! That was definitely the theme as Paris Fashion Week Couture Fall 2012 slipped out from behind the veiled curtain to reveal decadent, sophisticated and rich looking collections from some of the most famous talked about designers of all time. So much more had to be wrapped into three days as compared to previous years when the event stretched on for a week.
The celebrities that attended looked as fashionable as the models themselves.
Jessica Alba was seen in a Versace strapless leather dress with studs and Swarovski crystal detailing accessorized with mirrored platform pumps and a Versace clutch.
Seen solo was Kim Kardashian at Valentino in a hip hugging dress of lace with a ruffled sleeve all in black.
Sweet Zoe Saldana was seen at Armani showing off his shiny coral colored halter dress.
There were many designers showcasing their collections but a few stood out amongst the many.
Jean Paul Gaultier always turns his shows into performances that entertain and exhilarate. This season was a tribute to the silver screen in a different sort of manner. The color black played a starring role with top hats, satin trimmed tuxedo jackets, padded leggings, bustiers and the like. Bright red lips and vampish dark nails made for very interesting combinations. Images were exaggerated with large fur stoles over dainty chiffon pant suits. Flapper recreations with beading were part of the picture in vivid colors and accessorized with unique open boots fitting all the way up the leg.
The inspiration for Givenchy was the heartwarming Audrey Hepburn character in “Breakfast At Tiffany’s”. His showing was intimate and private. The black dress as we know it was transformed into a unique shape and even more ornate than what we would have imagined. It seemed as if the models were draped in their clothing rather than comfortably exhibiting the outfits. There was a hint of the Bohemian influence with an amazing attention to detailed craftsmanship on two very difficult fabrics, leather and suede.
One of my favorites was Elie Saab. Lavish gowns meant to portray the real meaning of couture brightened the runway. Intricate beading and sequins and lace sleeves were in Saab’s words, “lifted from a palace along the banks of the Bosphorus”. A sheer black gown fit the model magnificently with a plunging neckline and skinny belt. Glistening dresses in varying lengths caused plenty of oohs and aahs. Royalty was at its finest in baby blue, peach and rich golden gowns. Even the full skirt was in motion on the runway. But the true highlight of the show was the embossed organza bridal gown with gold brocade leaves complete with a veil.
Valentino took us back to the vintage era. All the styles were about capes and sexy silhouettes. Simple blue satin dresses looked glorious. Black sequins were thrown in for good measure. His most glamorous creation was a Grecian gown suggestively sheer with a low slung draped neckline complete with embroidery on the bodice and waist. Floral, popular in previous seasons, made a comeback on the runway. There was evidence of the Japanese culture in satin kimono-like dresses. Ruffles were a sharp contrast to the simple yet contemporary dress. Crepe de chine and silk chiffon were synonymous with elegance and stature.
As always, when the curtain comes down and the shows come to an end, a woman feels like a true Queen with all the masterful wardrobe possibilities for the next season soon to be approaching.
PHOTO CREDITS: Getty Images and www.zimbio.com
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