Paris Fall Couture Week 2012 - Part 2

Paris Couture Fashion Week
Fall/Winter 2012-2013
Part Two

This is the second part to my runway reviews of Couture Week in Paris.

Alexandre Vauthier

After viewing a string of pastel shaded and darker, wintry themed shows, Alexandre Vauthier's invigorating collection came as a pleasant change. The very V-neck was imposed upon most of the alluring outfits, demanding attention in true diva style. The palette was made up of crisp whites, glossy golds and sandy beige. Sharply-cut silhouettes displayed asymmetrical necklines, peplum-waist shirts, body-hugging mini dresses with high slits and leisurely jumpsuits with tapered pants. The beguiling looks were furnished with rows of heavy gold chains, metallic belts, geometric beading and shiny Louboutin heels. The JLo's and Kardashians of the world have just met their new wardrobe.

Armani Privé

Giorgio Armani dished up a series of modern-luxe looks inspired by the mystique of dusk and the enigma of a navy blue night. Veiled models paced the runway in a variation of pale lilacs, pinks and cordial shades of blue. An interesting blend of contemporary and futurism, the collection displayed suave suits and tailored coats cropped at the waist, generously cut pants in the softest black velvet, bright blocks of colour and shimmering evening gowns that mirror the midnight sky.

Valentino

Valentino gave us the expected amount of elegance vs femininity, with a side of covert sexiness for Fall 2012. Midnight blue laid down the foundation of the couture collection, with the steadfast set of scarlet gowns following and a dusting of mink, golden caramel and yellow. Sheer chiffons and crepes added a lightness to range, contrasting the heavier velvets, cashmere and brocades. The jumpsuit is no longer your lounge-out-in look, it has been restyled with the utmost decadence in flashy beaded black and gold. Evening wear was kept simple and refined in slender silhouettes with high round-necks and long sleeves.

Stéphane Rolland

Of all the couture collections, the one I am always most intrigued by is Stéphane Rolland. The ingenious designer finds new and unique ways to drape gorgeous fluid fabrics, this season in burgundy, cream, sepia and black. Rolland adds drama to his form-fitting silhouettes with shards of silicone, feathered trusses and projected circular shapes, masterly crafted onto mermaid skirts. Waists were accented with unusual belts and models wore quirky semi-covered gloves. Long flowing capes framed the sleekly tailored pantsuits and floor-sweeping gowns. If any super heroine is in the market for a new trailblazing couture costume, this is where she should shop.

For part one of Paris Couture Fashion Week, visit here. A special edition for the final chapter to follow.