The fashion frenzy gripping the French capital came to its peak over the weekend as Galliano and McQueen fired off showy bursts against the rich, classic backdrop of Valentino and Vuitton in the final collections of Paris Fashion Week.
The two British designers did not disappoint fans who have come to expect gasp-inducing creations from them. McQueen drew on his Scottish roots for a multi-hued, multi-layered collection which he admitted was "less aggressive" than his previous forays into the shades and feelings of his homeland. "The highlands are so romantic, so beautiful… and so much work," he said.
Galliano, ever flamboyant, softened his approach somewhat for his autumn/winter offering, aiming for what he described as a "romantic, ethereal" show that pressed home its point with subtle colours and faded images amid the attention-grabbing shapes of his styling.
Classicists were thrilled by the sharp tailoring presented by Valentino and the ultra-elegant lines of Marc Jacobs' chic but comfortable wide trousers and big hoods designs for Vuitton.
As always, the eight-day bonanza attracted style-conscious celebs of all ages and types keen to see what the maestros have in store for the upcoming season. Pink, Charlotte Casiraghi, Naomi Campbell and a host of screen stars adorned the front seats at the major shows.
"This is a place full of seduction and coquetry, rich in eroticism," murmured veteran actress Catherine Deneuve, and she could well have been referring to the whole city, not just the lush restaurant venue where she drank in Miu Miu's first Paris show.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
