Couture Dreams
With the conclusion of the Haute Couture SS14 presentations in Paris, fluoro explores the dreams crafted by three significant couture houses: Jean Paul Gaultier, Elie Saab and Atelier Versace.
The late Alexander McQueen once said in an interview “an awful runway of non-existenceness” when asked on the value of his shows if he was not around to direct them. Jean Paul Gaultier is one of very few designers around to maintain the legacy of his house. He continues to push his dream of couture demonstrating that a show needs to be exactly that, a show.
“Papillons de Paris” (Butterflies of Paris) was the major statement coming from Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture SS14, painting a picture of beautifully beaded corsetry, feather and leather work. Steering a vision into the dream of Haute Couture, Gaultier presented a collection of colour explosion through literal forms of butterflies whilst maintaining his signature silhouette of wasp waistlines and dreamy visions of the Parisian showgirl. Making her regular appearance at the show was Dita Von Teese in a corset made by Paris Icon, Mr Pearl.
Lebanese fashion designer Elie Saab continued to inspire the undying love the Lebanese (and the world) have for Haute Couture. Saab offered a symphony of colour and delicate lace work with floral motifs highlighting that nature is often couture’s greatest influence. The collection was a diversion from Saab’s previous monochromatic stories.
As time ticks, the profound influence of Tunisian-Parisian Designer Azzedine Alaïa is slowly being revealed. Alaïa is known for first putting Grace Jones in a hooded dress, which is what Donatella envisioned as she worked on the SS14 collection. Highlighting a close connection to the concept of confident sexuality, Atelier Versace continued to evolve its couture presence. The Versace woman appeared strong and resilient, reflecting the journey of the Creative Director.
Paris Fashion Week Haute Couture will return for the AW14 Haute Couture season from Sunday 6 to Friday 11 July 2014.
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