By Chere Di Boscio
Eluxe lauds haute couture as being the ultimate in slow fashion. It’s clothing as an art form; a means of preserving and perpetuating European artisanal traditions and a reminder that more than something to change every few months, clothing should be well made, well bought and well guarded for generations to come.
We weren’t lucky enough to make it to every show on the calendar, but here are the ones we did get to see. They were quite diverse in style and technique, but they had one thing in common: they were all breathtaking. Which of the maisons d’ haute couture produced your favourite collection?
Valentino’s Ethnic Dolls
Russia and Greece are a perennial source of inspiration to this Greenpeace approved fashion house, and this season was no exception. Here, ethnic embroidery embellished delicate silks; double column maxi dresses elongated silhouettes; and the world’s most excellent fabrics were featured in dresses cut with monastic simplicity, sometimes wrapped with ribbons, adding a classically Greek touch.
Versace’s Vixens
Peek-a-boo cutouts and dangerous curves were the theme at this season’s Versace catwalk. Unfailingly sexy, Versace’s creations included jumpsuits and maxi dresses with deep V necks, side slits and bared shoulders, all worn by fiercely fit-not-thin models, including some of the best known faces in fashion: Amber Valletta, Karlie Kloss and Joan Smalls to name but a few.
Rami al Ali’s Laser Precision
Minute detailing, including dense beading and intricate laser cutting lent subtle, feminine embellishment to al Ali’s creations. Crafted from fine French lace, silk chiffon, silk tulle and organza, this season’s collection was in muted monochrome, allowing for an emphasis on expert embellishment and craftsmanship.
Pretty as a Petal at Ralph & Russo
Botticelli met Ballet on the runway of British couturier Ralph & Russo this season. Gowns were delightfully feminine, featuring layers and layers of whispery silk, forming delicately crafted petals that both embellished the gowns and enveloped the wearer.
Elie Saab‘s Noir Heroines
Film Noir seemed to be the inspiration behind these creations. ‘Tulip’ dresses in layers of Tiffany glass-coloured silks and long sleeved negligee style dresses with flounces of Maribou trim would have suited the most glamorous of Noir heroines.
- WIN! A $200 Gift Certificate From Moon Rabbit - December 7, 2024
- Michiyo Hayes Kuramochi’s Illuminati Style - December 6, 2024
- The Surprising Benefits Of Yak Wool - December 5, 2024
What a beautiful start to Feb!