Spring 2010 Haute Couture: Givenchy

Can I just say that I will totally wear these two dresses below if ever given the chance? I am in love (then again, when am I never in love with clothes?). The jewel tone colors, the crystal top, and the detailing on the bottom of the gowns are genius. Also, in the second to last picture, I'm digging the pleated shorts and knee high boots. What I would give to be tall. Can short people even pull off knee high boots? One can only hope...

The Magic of Couture

With so many looks that come down a runway for a single show, we immediately think "I love it" or "ick, no!" But rarely, do we get the chance to examine in detail the artistry and skill that goes into making a garment. That's why I was delighted when I came across this video that FabSugar posted on their website. Chanel has put together a clip of how one single outfit was created for the Chanel Haute Couture Fall '09 show (image above). Keep in mind that this is haute couture which refers to the creation of exclusive custom-fitted clothing that are usually made from high-quality, expensive fabric and sewn with extreme attention to detail and finish, often using exquisite techniques. I can only imagine how many countless hours it takes to perfect one garment, let alone a whole collection's worth for a fashion show! Now you all know why one couture dress can cost tens and thousands of dollars. Be prepared to be in awe of the rare behind-the-scenes footage!

Fall 2009 Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Valentino

The black and nude color combination seems like the way to go for this upcoming fall season. I was blown away with the floor length gowns with its ruffles and tiered detailing. However, the rest of the collection didn't really impress me. The knee length dresses weren't very "Valentino" to me and they just seemed so ordinary. I wasn't really feeling the frilly shoes either. Not only were they not very attractive, but the models had a difficult time walking in them as well. This collection made me miss the genius of the retired designer and it would have been nice to see one dress in the signature Valentino red color. What do you think?

Fall 2009 Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Chanel

What I would give to able to sit in the Chanel Haute Couture Fashion show! Chanel is simply the best and never ever disappoints. The beading/sequins, draping, ruffles, pleats, and lace detailing were exquisite. From the lace leggings to the trains attached to the garments, the collection had a somewhat 80s vibe; however it steered away from tacky. I have read a couple fashion articles that mention that as a whole, the black dresses were underwhelming. However, I beg to differ. As the late Coco Chanel put it best: "Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance." Below is a small clip of the show. I am still hunting for the full video, but this shall do for now...enjoy!

Fall 2009 Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Christian Lacroix

Leave it to Christian Lacroix to give the audience thrills and frills in his collection. I loved the lace detailing, exquisite beading, bows, and ruffles. I am not used to seeing Lacroix so tamed, but I admit I do like it. This collection is far from his signature style (minus the second picture above, which is a wedding dress), and I'm not sure if that's a bad thing. The clothes are completely wearable and I would love to get my hands on the the navy and black coatdresses, beaded skirts, and dropwaisted jackets. Since the fashion house recently filed for bankruptcy, this may well have been Lacroix's last fashion show. I pray this is not the case; nevertheless, his (potential) last collection not only impressed many fashion lovers, but also showcased his pure talent and genius.

Fall 2009 Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Christian Dior

Couture week was kicked off with Christian Dior on July 6th. Galliano killed it by mixing provocative, yet classy lingerie pieces such as garters, corsets, pantyhose, and lacy bras with voluminous skirts, jackets/coats, and dresses. This fall, Galliano favors black and neutral combos, with punches of bright orange, red, and purple. Dior proves that a woman can be both sexy, yet sophisticated. Do you adore Dior's Couture collection as much as I do?