To widen their audience and to keep up with the industry’s shift, we see more of ready-to-wear during this year’s Haute Couture shows at Paris. Following day one was Schiaparelli, Iris Van Harpen, Ralph & Russo to Giambattista Valli amongst Christian Dior.
Elsa Schiaparelli showcased 36-gown collection with some stylish contemporary twists. Designer Bertrand produced a diaphanous collection of couture gowns with hints of the 1930s draping styles and high necks.
Ralph & Russo is being a red-carpet favourite of many with Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor patronising it at Cannes and now as the show stopper for Tamara Ralph’s Haute couture show at Paris.
Iris Van Harpen’s water themed couture show, revisited the fusion of organic forms with technology and mechanics. White gowns, constructed of tendrils or fibers, provoked myriad interpretations — evoking sound waves, the rippling sea or the gills of a fish.While the silhouettes were varied, and infused with large Asian-style sleeves and exaggerated proportions.
