A Review of Paris Fall Haute Couture Week
Last week, models hit the runway with a plethora of new trends during the fall 2019 Paris Haute Couture week. At this year’s shows, “less is more” was definitely not the motto as designers used plenty of materials in their flashy new looks. Eclectic gowns, feathers, and huge bows marked some of the gaudier looks spotted at the show. Celebrities and influencers also arrived dressed to the nines in designer couture of their own. Here is a glimpse of some of the hottest looks for fall 2019:
Valentino:
It can be said that Valentino’s Pierpaolo Piccioli stole the show when it comes to haute fashion with a purpose. With underlying messages of individuality and inclusivity, his purpose appeals to all women, along with his elegant handiwork. The major takeaway was sensational color in surprising combinations. When Picciolo walked out for his bow, the audience gave him a standing ovation, and front row celebrities Gwyneth Paltrow, Naomi Campbell and Céline Dion all voiced that he is the couture designer who matters most in 2019.
Givenchy:
Givenchy’s designer Clare Waight Keller expressed an underlying message of a woman breaking through barriers of stratified norms, which she depicted in free-spirited and even slightly disheveled looks. Layers of pleated silk, lace, fringe and feathers represented the metaphors she wished to convey of, in her words, “a bird woman trapped in a house.” Tweedy black and white pieces, feathers, and a lavender cape coat were some of Keller’s statement pieces during the show.
Elie Saab:
For her fall collection, Elie Saab drew her inspiration from rich East Asian culture, with imperial volumes of velvet and satin. Ambient music played as models walked down the runway, and guests immediately felt the cultural sense that Elie wished to convey. Although she displayed lavish new design patterns, she stayed true to the house in some aspects, such as waist emphasis. Overall, her collection is regal with abstract touches.
Giambattista Valli:
For Giambattista Valli’s fall collection, he wished to create a “moment of peace” as he has had quite a busy year with various projects and collaborations he took up. His couture resembled his previous successful designs, but were nonetheless crowdpleasers as well. Floral prints, ruffles, and pastels were several highlights he used in his spring-resembling looks.
Chanel:
Chanel’s designer Virginie Viard created her woman-empowering collection as a period piece set in a library resembling the apartment of Gabrielle Chanel. Some details she used in each of the designs resembled that of both Gabrielle and Lagerfeld. All of her atelier team and those she collaborated with were awestruck at her craftsmanship and detail. Viard added her own touches in the forms of large jackets, satin collars and Oxford bags.
Fendi:
Sylvia Venturini Fendi created her fall collection in honor of late designer Karl Lagerfeld, who designed for Fendi for 54 years. She specifically commemorated his ability to “push boundaries” in her designs by illustrating the restoration of the Temple of Venus and Rome by Emporor Hadrian. Her fabrics resembled the stone and marble floors of Rome, and resembled geometric prints. She also presented reversible jackets, “light” furs, and extravagant chiffon evening gowns. She truly honored Lagerfeld’s memory through her work and his presence was felt during the show.
