The key trends running through couture week created a world of opulence and maximalism in a fairytale setting. Intricate embellishments, shimmering metallics and dramatic ruffles dominated the catwalks, making for an elegant yet fun mood. There was a running theme of whimsical fantasy; it was a week full of princesses, goddesses and romantic heroines. Below, we round up all the major trends from this magical week in Paris.
YOU SHALL GO TO THE BALL
As would be expected at a couture week filled with fantasy, real princesses were catered for in true style. The ballgowns on offer really were the stuff of fairytales, with full and ruffled skirts almost as wide as the catwalks they were being showcased on. The inspiration for some looks was clear; the dramatic pale yellow creation that closed the Giambattista Valli show was more than reminiscent of Disney’s Belle, a fun reference given the much anticipated release of the new Beauty and the Beast film in March.
From left to right: Giambattista Valli, Chanel, Elie Saab
LIGHT AS A FEATHER
Feathers never fail to give a look of utmost opulence. At Chanel, feathers of palest pink and white were gathered in bold blocks at the hems of gowns and on the shoulders. Atelier Versace used an ombre effect of feathers to perfectly finish an intricately constructed metallic gown targeted squarely at the red-carpet audience. At Elie Saab, the feathers were delicate flourishes of baby blue and beige at the wrists and round the shoulders.
From left to right: Chanel, Givenchy, Elie Saab
FAIRY PRINCESS
Highly embellished, shimmering gowns created a whimsical look that wouldn’t be out of place if seen on a woodland fairy or elfin princess. The sheer, free-flowing fabrication as seen at Christian Dior and Valentino, only served to add to the fairytale quality of the gowns.
From left to right: Christian Dior, Valentino, Ralph & Russo
HIGH SHINE
Models slinked down the runways in head-to-toe shimmering creations that almost looked like liquid metal. At Schiaparelli and Ralph & Russo traditional gold and silver created striking metallic goddesses. At Valentino and Atelier Versace the use of soft pink gave a more romantic finish to the look.
From left to right: Ralph & Russo, Schiaparelli, Valentino
RUFFLES ON RUFFLES
From bold ‘80s dropped hem skirts as seen at Ralph & Russo, to romantic soft layering at Christian Dior, ruffles were the texture of choice. Dramatic ballgowns were given the maximalist treatment at Giambattista Valli, Chanel and Zuhair Murad, with full ruffled skirts. At Valentino, the ruffles were on a smaller scale, creating a delicate and romantic look in soft pink.
From left to right: Ralph & Russo, Christian Dior, Giambattista Valli
DIP IT LOW
The neckline of choice was a deep ‘v’ shape cut almost to the navel. It’s a flattering shape that will no doubt be popular amongst the A-listers that will be looking to wear these creations during awards season. The cut gave a Grecian quality to floor sweeping dresses at Christian Dior and Valentino, and created clean lines on heavily embellished gowns at Chanel and Ralph & Russo.
From left to right: Christian Dior, Valentino, Ralph & Russo)
LOOKING SHARP
For those who prefer an alternative silhouette, there were ample offerings of suits to create a stylish look with a masculine edge. Jean Paul Gaultier showed a relaxed take on the tuxedo, Christian Dior’s black suit had a military slant and Schiaparelli’s was high shine and super-slim cut.
From left to right: Armani Privé, Schiaparelli, Christian Dior
HEAVY EMBELLISHMENT
Whether used to intricately bejewelled gowns as at Ralph & Russo and Armani Privé, or to create complete scenes of palm trees, sail boats and fireworks as at Elie Saab and Zuhair Murad, head-to-toe embroidery prevailed at couture week. The results were exquisitely detailed gowns that showcased the couture houses’ intimate attention to detail and the highlighted the amount of time and effort that goes into making one of these beautiful creations.
From left to right: Elie Saab, Ralph & Russo, Zuhair Murad
SHEER CHIFFON
Layers of sheer, smooth chiffon were used at many shows to create flowing gowns with an ethereal feel. At Atelier Versace, ombre colouring and pleating gave a slightly more graphic feel to the look. But for the most part, pale pinks, baby blues and neutral colours were used to make for a romantic finish.
From left to right: Elie Saab, Ralph & Russo, Christian Dior
By Natalie Hanson
