Couture Part 1: Versace, Giambattista Valli & Dior

PARIS -- The French capital hosts Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week from January 24 until January 28, with around thirty catwalk shows on the schedule. While certain shows hold a particular interest in the fashion world this year (Especially Dior, previewing with no Creative Director) Couture Week is easily one of the most anticipated moments of the year. 

Versace 
On Sunday night, Donatella Versace opened the haute couture shows with a modern collection named, "Athletic Couture." With her inspiration kept in the forefront of her mind (women who are focused and who push themselves to the limit) featuring white ski pants with matching zip tops, dress with curve-hugging lines and Tracksuit bottoms with high heels. Crystal ropes resembling sugary shoelace candies were knotted in and out of evening dresses. Bright oranges and neon yellows were a continuous motif, giving a nod to performance trainers. In this context, it was invigorating to see a designer using current trends to influence such a respected, mega brand's archive. 

Giambattista Valli 
After the November attacks in Paris, Giambattista Valli came up with the idea to honor the city's famous gardens as a "Kind of thank you to Paris." And give thanks he did. Ruffled silk organza, embroidered brocade, colorful appliqués and even more opulent materials moved down the runway in this playfully feminine collection. He said thank you in flowers, empire silhouettes and grand ball
gowns made of pleated tulle worthy of a Sex and the City wedding (one that actually results in marriage) or The Red Carpet. 

Christian Dior 
Everyone was on their toes when it came time for Dior's Haute Couture show on Monday. Since the abrupt evacuation of designer Raf Simons, the iconic brand has yet to name a new Creative Director. *Gasps* His collection was left in the hands of studio directors Lucie Meier and Serge Ruffieux, who placed a temporary band aid over the house that's hurting for a new commander. Simon's influence still existed throughout in bar jackets, off the shoulder necklines, deconstructed coats and textural florals but overall there was a noticeable lack of excitement and a major missing element.