The fashion industry's top designers offered women an elegant but playful wardrobe at this year's Paris Fashion Week. Clean lines and sophisticated femininity dominated most of the collections, though one or two of the big guns also added a touch of sassy charm.
Jean-Paul Gaultier presented another triumphant collection for Hermés, bringing a refined modern touch to the label's trademark classicism. Long sheath-like gowns combined white with vibrant reds and oranges, as the former enfant terrible of French fashion revealed a more understated side.
The collection, which was shown at the Left Bank's beautiful Beaux Arts School, also featured romantic, puff-sleeved blouses, crisp linen trouser suits and butterscotch leather coats.
Elegance was also the direction taken at Rochas, where Olivier Theyskens sent models sashaying down the runway in delicate, Fortuny-style pleated gowns in eau de nil and jade hues. Much to the delight of his audience, the 27-year-old Belgian struck a fine balance between chic and cool.
Naoki Takizawa's new range for Issey Miyake was likewise a homage to feminine grace, with clean, simple lines dominating his white jersey dresses and black suits. Predictably Vivienne Westwood was on more flamboyant form, with gold and pink lamé incorporated alongside pastel silks in a series of voluminous gowns and skirt combos.
At Yves Saint Laurent, Stefano Pilati's debut collection was also a celebration of bright colours, with models taking to the Paris Stock Exchange runway in vibrant, frilly cocktail dresses and sharply tailored coats. The Italian designer took the label in a radical new direction with playful creations which are a world away from the sensual formality of his predecessor Tom Ford.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
