The big guns swept onto the Paris catwalks on Wednesday as some of fashion's most influential figures showed off their latest creations. Fashionistas gathered in the French capital were treated to a masterclass in style, as design veterans, including Valentino and Lagerfeld, showed why they are still at the top of the game.
Recent rumours that Italian maestro Valentino is planning to retire were further fuelled by the designer's emotional appearance on the catwalk at the end of his show. The 73-year-old was moved to tears as he waved to an adoring audience after his latest collection was unveiled in the French capital.
In keeping with the legendary creator's reputation, his new line was a testament to old-fashioned glamour, but as usual he managed to managed to give it an innovative and contemporary feel at the same time. There was a feel of the Seventies TV series Little House On The Prairie to one voluminous pink skirt and lacy blouse and bow top ensemble, while a more understated black and grey combo recreated pure Twenties chic.
Showing his own line, Karl Lagerfeld - chief designer at Chanel - was also presenting a monochrome selection, though there was a rather more edgy feel to his look. Local talent Christian Lacroix had also used a lot of black, adding a warmer energy with the floral prints and oversize belts adorning several of the models.
Presenting his new range for Givenchy, Riccardo Tisci debuted a collection filled with classic femininity. Empire-waisted pea coats and long fishtail skirts were ubiquitous to the show, which mixed pastel colours with darker hues. One of the highlights of the collection, a white jacket with sculpted lapels and oversize polo-neck sweater combo, proved the Italian designer isn't afraid to nudge the boundaries, though.
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Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
