Paris Couture Fashion Week 2012

Paris Haute Couture Week 2012 officially opened it's doors on Monday to world class designers and stunning supermodels, displaying an array of exquisite clothes. This is an updated view of some of the most impressive collections. Click on the pictures for a larger view.



Versace

 Donatella sent a small group of Glamazons down the Versace Haute Couture runway for the the first time in 8 years. Glistening dresses seemed to be moulded onto the models, with sculpted corsets, extended hip flounces and rounded strapless necklines. Subtle metallics paled in comparison to the striking shades of tangerine, yellow and lime. High pony tails and smokey eyes completed the glam-warrior looks. I wished for more pizazz, less shine.

Chanel

Azure skies to starry nights - every shade of blue was represented at Chanel's 2012 Couture showing. Models in faux mohawks and fascinators walked down the aisle, set to look like the inside of an airplane. Tweed dress suits in powder blue, drop-waists and pocket seamed shifts with high cuffed necks, a scattering of blue sequins that shimmered like the sun on an ocean wave. Longer length gowns were displayed in midnight blue and the palest shade of blue chiffon. A couture take on air hostess outfits - if only!

Giambattista Valli

 The Giambattista Valli Couture show expressed sensual femininity: cream and black sheer lace dresses, petal-smothered skirts, sequins, satin and bows. I can picture someone like Olivia Palermo in the feathered frock, pictured second on the top row. Splashes of raspberry red, plum and fuchsia stole the scene with billowy evening gowns. Models wore elaborate floral headpieces, cohesively fitting in with the summery floral print gowns.

Christian Dior 

 Christian Dior's Haute Couture collection brings forth vintage-inspired shapes, from the swanky 50's to the more opulent Victorian era. A-line dresses were embroidered with floral designs, while pencil skirts were seen in houndstooth and grid prints. There was an interesting juxtaposition of 'heavy' sheerness. Layers and layers of see-through tulle were skillfully constructed into dramatic gowns with sizable skirts. Ruffles are certainly having a moment.

Armani Privé

Blue was to Chanel as green is to Armani this Couture season. Viridescent shades of green illuminated the striped catwalk, bringing with it chic reptilian-like jackets over mesh shirts and folded silk skirts. The under-the-sea extravaganza continued with a blinding neon gown rolled in sequins, graphic prints unfolded to reveal an inner black bodice, multi-layered mermaid gowns wrapped to resemble seaweed and a conspicuous shade of chartreuse which will ensure that this is an Armani range to be remembered.

Stephane Rolland

Stephane Rolland's Couture collection is one of my favourites from all featured in this post. Because he reimagined the basics, creating avant-garde designs and innovative silhouettes. Exaggerated origami-folds, geometric cut-outs, gold metal panelling, unfurling ruffles and architectural shapes. He chose to express these spectacular designs using a simple colour palette of black, white, red and lime green (which has been quite popular so far). Beautifully draped gowns swept the floor in silk jersey, gazar and organza. A masterful collection with an aura of confidence and allure.

Valentino

There was a feeling of regal antiquity surrounding Valentino's Spring Couture collection. If modern monarchy existed today as it did in the 18th century, I can imagine that this is what real-life princesses would wear. Prim white-to-ivory knee-length dresses, woven from the finest cotton and latticed lace. Feathery light floral frocks, demure as can be with high-frilled collars and sheer organza sleeves. A range that charms with it's maidenly grace.  

Zuhair Murad

Zuhair Murad's Couture collection is 'glitzy as charged' for Spring 2012. Extravagantly beaded gowns were dipped in champagne golds and varnished metallics. Black floral embroidery was starkly contrasted with nude-tone slips, while hourglass-enhancing silhouettes were shaped to perfection. Crystal-embellished gowns featured plunging necklines and tails of tulle. It's luxury meets sensuality. I can see many a country-singing-star lapping this one up.

Paris Fashion Week Favourites - Part Three

Paris Fashion Week

Spring/Summer 2012



Paris Fashion Week closed off another season of fabulous clothes, supermodels and remarkable designers. The biggest trends that have emerged for Spring 2012 are vibrant floral prints, citrus shades, cropped tops, pleating, lingerie-inspired outerwear, sheerness and belted waists. Although Spring is months away, it's never to early to be inspired.





Emanuel Ungaro

Emanuel Ungaro's newest designer Jeanne Labib-Lamour took a safe approach towards Spring 2012. Paint splash prints in doses of blue and red were pleated, draped, ruched and twisted. Silky jumpsuits and v-neck cocktail dresses were belted with thin metallic gold. Besides for sexy daywear, there was just a touch of sequins at the end, with a gold encrusted column evening gown. Models wore deep blue smokey eyes and side-swept fringes.

Alexander McQueen

Yet another display of creative brilliance for Alexander McQueen's Sarah Burton. The underwater inspiration was visible through clusters of tulle coral, couture lace swimming caps, oyster print chiffon, pearly shell pink and a treasure cove of gold dresses. The softness of fully ruffled gowns stood out against sculpted corsets and gothic black gowns. The painstakingly elaborate detailing extended to strappy platform heels. More like pieces of art that belong in a museum rather than in a boutique. 

Valentino

A dreamy and romantic Spring collection from the Italian duo behind Valentino. Pretty high-neck frocks were spun from delicate lace in shades of honeydew, lily white and black. There was also an odd shot of slinky leather dresses. Featherlight evening gowns skimmed the floor in transparent florals, dotted mesh and embroidered lace. Striking scarlet dresses stood out amidst the waves of nude chiffon.  

Chanel

It was Parisian-meets-oceanic chic at Chanel's Spring 2012 showing. Karl Lagerfeld was yet another designer to use an aquatic reference in his collection. The classic Chanel pieces were all there in the usual soft-hued palette; on this occasion scattered with pearls and foamy lace. A prominent feature were lines of black ribbon zigzagged across coats and dresses. A seabed effect was created by airy organza, shouls of gathered chiffon, opalescent textiles and shimmery sequins. Models wore flat ankle boots in lustrous silver, and slicked back hair.

Chloe

Clare Waight Keller expressed urbane femininity in her first efforts for Chloé. New to brand, Keller presented a commercially friendly collection in a dependable colour scheme of soft pinks, coral, cream and beige.  Horizontal stripes and colour-blocked panels were assigned to breezy pleated dresses. Classic white shirts were paired with relaxed-fit trousers. Wide leather belts were slung around drop-waist dresses. This collection may not have all the elaborate frills of others this season, but I find that there is beauty in functionality. 

Miu Miu

Capes. For Spring. If a designer-loving Red Riding Hood went to the Wild West, she would be dressed head-to-toe in Miu Miu. Miuccia Prada toyed with vampish girlyness in moody colours for Spring 2012. The idea of the 'velvet ribbon bound stole' was rendered in different lengths and quilt prints. The vintage charm of guipure lace was juxtaposed against the heaviness of patchwork and the sheen of satin dresses. Models sauntered in rose-embroidered cowboy boots, eyelids aglow with fiery red shadow.

Hope you have enjoyed my coverage of Fashion Week 2011-12. To see a recap of all the events, click here.

Paris Fashion Week Favourites - Part Two

Paris Fashion Week

Spring/Summer 2012





This is the second chapter of my Paris Fashion Week Favourites.





Martin Grant

Martin Grant's Spring collection produced a perfect balance of light and dark. Flashes of yellow, tangerine and electric blue were anchored by silky ebony gowns. The Australian designer steered clear from the popular floral prints of the season, sticking to monotoned duchess satin. Simple, unruffled shapes were a canvas for cut-outs and colour-blocking. A bright stripe of orange outlined the eyes. 

Sonia Rykiel

Shades of sunshine were beamed across an optimistic yellow runway at Sonia Rykiel's Spring showing. The colour palette developed from vanilla, honey and lemon to glowing midday oranges. Both sporty and feminine shapes were represented. A unifying strip of black fabric was drawn across pleated dresses, culottes and skirts. The collection concluded with a gorgeous colour block gown and silk tulip-print dresses.

Haider Akermann

It was the poetic works of 19th century dramatists, Byron and Baudelaire that inspired Haider Ackermann's Spring collection. The silhouettes had a strong masculine theme; with slouchy pants, loose-fit blazers and robe-like jackets.  Opulent fabrics like silk, jacquard and brocade were set in jewel tones and mismatched sari-like prints. It was great to see the models wear flat oxfords instead of heels. 

Costume National

Costume National's rose-tinted Spring range is as unpretentious as it is prepossessing. Composed and sophisticated outfits in charming shades of peppermint and pink went from work to cocktail wear. Italian designer Ennio Capasa focused on geometric tailoring, exaggerated cap sleeves and sheer panelling. A pretty, sensible and wearable collection. 

John Galliano

 Designer Bill Gaytten drew inspiration from two classic 'Marys' for John Galliano's Spring 2012 range. The Mary Poppins element can be seen in the boater hats, oversized tweed coats, corsages, flair skirts, Mary-Jane heels and carpet bags. 1920's actress Mary Pickford was the muse behind the saccharine organza dresses, swiveled in tulle. The collection leaped from bias-cut daywear to gauzy feminine evening gowns.

Andrew Gn

 Singaporean designer Andrew Gn merged Japanese construction with 18th century French grandeur for next Spring. Kimono-style dresses featuring origami pleating were woven from lavish baroque brocades. Rococo bejeweled waistbands adorned floaty chiffon dresses. Models were crowned by floral tiara headbands - the ideal accessory for a royally beautiful range.

Paris Fashion Week Favourites - Part One

Paris Fashion Week

Spring/Summer 2012

We've barely recovered from the excitement of Milan Fashion Week, and it's already onto the next one, Paris Fashion Week. Running from 27 September to 5 October, the City of Lights plays host to some of world's best designers, as they present their collections for Spring 2012. These are a few of my favourites so far.

Christian Dior 

Designer Bill Gaytten lends his charm to Christian Dior, showing off an enchanting, ladylike collection for Spring 2012. Daywear in retro-modern shapes were kept to neutral shades of beige, black, white and grey. The only splash of vibrant colour came from a line of saffron red silk dresses. Models were enveloped in sensational sheer organza evening gowns, tickled with lace. A gracious, yet humble new beginning (post Galliano) for the 65 year old fashion house. 

 Nina Ricci

Russian artist Zina de Plagny was the inspiration behind Nina Ricci's romantic Spring range. Prints from the 30's and 40's were reconditioned to fit contemporary designs with a Parisian-chic twist. Midnight blue was a thematic hue that went from daywear to night. Stretch satin sheaths, slip dresses and lingerie-inspired ensembles set a sensual tone. Caged hats and extra large clutch bags accessorized the feminine outfits.

Dries van Noten

Dries van Noten's Spring 2012 range exhibited a relaxed glamour, governed by a variety of influences. The digital floral and cityscape prints pay tribute to English photographer James Reeves. The silhouettes go back to the 50's, with a trace of Spanish design. He placed peplum flounces on pants and bells on sleeves, an emerging trend for next season. Heavy black lace and broderie anglaise enhanced the basic black, navy and white palette. Models wore slicked back hair and strappy tie-up heels.

Rue du Mail

Designer Martine Sitbon told a tale of exotic travels for Rue du Mail's Spring 2012 presentation. She played around with proportions, from fitted skirts to generously cut Moroccan-style caftans. Sitbon was also bountiful in her choice of fabrics: cottons, georgette, knits, satin, plissé detailing, Chinese-inspired prints, tulle embroidery and smock-frocks. Mexican inspired patterns were seamed onto sheer dresses. Smudged smoky eyes and multi-strap platform sandals accompanied this eclectic collection.

 Anne Valérie Hash

Anne Valérie Hash showcased modern designs in luscious tones of blue and a squeeze of orange zest. I love the originality in this collection; the twist-knot front trousers are something I haven't seen before. Two-tone tuxedo jackets were worn over silk slack-fit skinnies. Laid-back tailoring was an unmistakable feature throughout the tangy range.

 Roland Mouret

I was two-minded about Roland Mouret's Spring offering. I wasn't fond of the evil eye insignia on some pieces, but I was impressed by the contoured cut-out silhouettes. Mouret is masterful at moulding fabric into figure enhancing dresses. His flattering designs were nipped in the waist by black grosgrain ribbon belts. Tulip motifs were tacked onto chartreuse, navy & scarlet fit-and-flair dresses. A prim and polished range, that ideally depicts covert sexiness. 

Balmain

I haven't met a Balmain collection I didn't like. This is the first offering from the label's dashing new designer Oliver Rousteing, which can be best described as rock-chick rolled in gold. The glitz and glamour of Vegas collided with Mexican design and Rodeo chic, seen in glittering high-waisted mini's, lightwash denim, tasseled sleeves, glossy leather suits and skirts, structured shoulders, metallic buckled belts and lavishly bejeweled tops. Hypnotic.

Milan Fashion Week Favourites 2011 - Part Two

Milan Fashion Week

Spring/Summer 2012



This is the second chapter of my favourite runway picks of Milan Fashion Week. Some of the major trends that came out of Italy this year are: the bare midriff, pleated skirts, crocheting, bold floral prints, sheer fabrics, flowing floor-length gowns and the pencil skirt. 



Dolce and Gabbana 

Only Dolce & Gabbana can make vegetable prints look seriously sexy. Spicy chillies, red onions, yellow bell peppers, plum tomatoes and purple aubergines were printed onto the 50's style silhouettes. The idyllic Italian summer collection advanced into coquettish cocktail wear, with sheer full-skirted dresses delicately cast over frilly bustier tops. Knee-length frocks were garnished with colourful gems and floral motifs. To further enforce the food-inspired theme, models wore farfalle and macaroni shaped earrings, and strings of pasta around their necks. The colourful straw baskets are suited for an outing to the local fruit & veg market.

Ermanno Scervino

 Ermanno Scervino's Spring 2012 collection was misted with a delicate spray of romance. Shades of pistachio, sea sand, blizzard blue and whipped cream gently washed across the stage. Satin negligées edged with lace stood-in as daywear. Courtly coats were coupled with pencil skirts. Tiered ruffles unfolded onto gossamer skirts. A beautifully feminine and refined collection for a modern day princess, royal or not.

Antonio Marras

Antonio Marras was inspired by French writer Jean Genet's 1947 play, The Maids, when putting together his Spring range. His colours of choice: a splash of cerise, violet, intense teals and greens, all underset by pale ivory and jet black. But it was the luminous yellow pointed heels that solicited most of my attention. Colour blocking collided with silky floral prints. Simple t-shirts were worn with generously cut skirts. There was also a good measure of leather and drapery. A striking collection that will look as good off the catwalk as on.

Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani's Spring collection swims in a deep blue sea of inspiration. He takes us on an underwater excursion with sophisticated designs soaked in pearlescent satin. Lacquered indigo cigarette pants were cropped with slits up to the knee. There are fitted silk jackets for the day, and shimmering beaded cardigans for night. Strapless evening gowns are molded to resemble seashells. Armani always interests me with his customary use of layering, in this case, fluid blue fabrics tier down to create a waterfall effect. This is an aquatic adventure that ripples with elegance and maturity.

Roberto Cavalli

Roberto Cavalli's Spring showcase oozes with gilded glamour and exuberance. It is a head turning collection that is entrenched in excessiveness. An overindulgence of floral and animal prints and an abundance of beads. There was a surplus of lustrous gold jackets, two-toned pleated skirts, impeccably fit trousers and multi-strap drop-waisted dresses. Black and white tuxedo jackets were cleverly used to modulate the ornate looks. I love the sheer tulle embellished gowns. Simply breathtaking.

Salvatore Ferragamo

Salvatore Ferregamo's Spring range is sustained by charismatic evening gowns in opulent colours. Saturated shades of turquoise, magenta, cherry red and tangerine covered spray-tanned models with side swept waves. Exotic tropical prints furnished handkerchief dresses, tulip-wrapped skirts, jumpsuits and loosely fit pants. Thigh high slits and key-hole halter necks were incorporated into the silk scarf gowns. I like designer Massimiliano Giornetti's refreshing take on colour blocking. A trip to the tropics has never been this glamorous.

Milan Fashion Week Favourites 2011 - Part One

Milan Fashion Week

Spring/Summer 2012



Milan Fashion Week started out spectacularly, showcasing Italy's most talented designers from 21-27 September. What I like about this fashion week is the diversity of the collections, each designer has such a unique vision and signature style. These are some of my favourite ranges thus far. Click on the pictures for a closer view.



Alberta Ferretti

Sexy slip dresses wrapped in silk were at the forefront of Alberta Ferretti's Spring 2011 range. The tropical theme was conveyed by palm-leaf prints and floaty gowns in a rainforest of colours. Sheer linear cut-outs and satin-block panels kept the simple sheaths from being monotonous. Crochet knits and intaglio printing added a bit of texture. Models sported natural sun kissed make-up, tousled beach waves and stunning strappy sandals.

Gucci

Gucci provided a modern twist to a roaring 20's styled collection. A handful of bold tones coloured in strong lines - green, gold, black and white made up a sophisticated range; inspired by the architectural lines of New York's Chrysler Building. Masculine suits were glamorized with high-waisted pants, and gold-trimmed collarless coats. Fringed flapper dresses with drop-waists glimmered with bugle beadwork. Each look is individually striking, and all together it forms a compelling range that we can be sure to see on many celebrities next Spring.

D&G

 The younger and more cosmopolitan D&G brand will merge with it's founding label, Dolce and Gabbana after this final Spring 2012 showing. Models were whirled in a sea of what looked like Hermés scarves, in a potpourri of prints. Even wedge-heel sandals were wrapped with printed scarves. There was a multitude of long, billowing gowns, fit for an exotic seaside vacation. Polychromatic prints covered everything - denim shirts, luxurious satin suits, clutch bags, jackets and mini dresses. D&G's swan song was a cheery farewell to a well-loved brand, one that will be pleasantly remembered.

Prada

I've never seen a cartoon car print on a designer dress before, but Prada does so with unusual elegance. Miuccia's 50's style silhouettes that were edged with exhaust flames made for interesting viewing. The automative masculine theme was toned down by soft pastel pleated dresses in sweet pink, mint green, sky blue and lemonade. Leather skirts echoed the interior of a car. Fern green, brick-red and navy floral appliqués were crocheted onto oversized felt coats. The little-boy-pajama-print may not be to everyone's liking, but this will surely be one of the most recognizable collections of the forthcoming season.

Emilio Pucci

It was all about the bare midriff at Emilio Pucci's Spring 2012 showcase. Designer Peter Dundas introduces the enigmatic gypsy girl - decked in paisley printed peasant tops, lacey circle skirts and floaty bohemian gowns. On the casual side, wide-leg trousers and shorts were paired with printed blouses, making use of scarves as belts. The lingerie-inspired aspect was visible through the delicate bustier tops, sheer skirts and gentle frills. Models wore sultry smokey eyes and loose hair with a side swept fringe.

Blugirl

Aimed a more youthful market, Blumarine's trendier line, Blugirl, presented a sweet dose of femininity for Spring 2012. Endearing candy coloured dresses were coated in flowers, bows and frills. Wafty, sheer printed gowns resembled a beautiful spring garden. Charming cardigans accompanied flirty little dresses, slim bowed belts nipped in waists and flowery necklaces adorned necks. Colour-blocked heels and clutch bags supplemented the spritely ensembles. I like the variety in this collection - theres stylish workwear, dreamy day dresses and alluring cocktail frocks. 

Frankie Morello

The most fun, witty and whimsical collection I've seen all Fashion Week is by Frankie Morello. His 'Souvenir of Italy' Spring range takes you on a Vespa ride through the country's most iconic landmarks - The Tower of Pisa, ancient buildings of Rome, the statue of David, Venetian gondolas, the Trompe-l'oeil, Amalfi Coast and streets of Milan. The tourist-influenced pieces are accessorized with camera necklaces and topped off with outlandish head pieces. Models with a sense of adventure carried backpacks instead of predictable clutch bags. Cycling shorts peeked from under flaired mini skirts, printed pleated fans decorated strapless tops and catchphrase t-shirts are worn with long glossy skirts. It may all be satirical, but you have to admit it is cute.

London Fashion Week Favourites 2011

London Fashion Week

Spring/Summer 2012

Fashion Week spread it's stylish wings to the UK for 16-20 September 2011. I found that the British collections showed more restraint than the fanciful ones we saw in New York. These are a few of the shows that made a memorable impression on me.

Burberry Prorsum

Burberry Prorsum's Spring 2012 collection had a very rustic, country feel to it, accredited by an assortment of handiwork. Christopher Bailey made use of decorative elements like crocheting, wooden beadwork, raffia trims and basket weaved knits. African inspired wooden beads in colourful, geometric shapes were tacked onto tops. Classic leather trenches and cropped parkas were seen in spice-rack shades and tribal prints. Raffia wedge heels, Burberry Whipstitch carrier bags and pom-pom topped caps harmoniously fit in with the cozy theme.

Mary Katrantzou

Electric colours and dizzying prints were showed off at Mary Katrantzou's Spring 2012 fashion show. The Greek designer took a no-holds-barred approach when it came to mixing imaginative digital prints with shocking shades. There wasn't a single monotoned outfit in sight. The graphics in this collection were inspired by two contrasting themes - the splendor of nature and the metallic aspect of spray cans and car-crushed sculptures. Green, orange and blue lipstick mirrored the colourful clothes. Katrantzou has a vivid vision, which she blooms to life with this collection.

Matthew Williamson

 Shades of sunset ruled the runway at Matthew Williamson's Spring 2012 show. Ochre, apricot and mango chiffon gowns were patterned, feathered and flowy. Sarong style skirts were paired with matching printed blouses. Tailored blazers framed folksy evening gowns. I love the two-toned Charlotte Olympia ankle-strap pumps worn by the models.

Jonathan Saunders

It was South Beach Central at Jonathan Saunder's Spring 2012 showing. The Scottish designer was inspired by the soft, summery shades of Miami - pool blues, yellow rays of sunshine, palm greens, Florida oranges. Saunders, who's talent lies in silk-screening, submitted a string of 50's style dresses in a pretty paisley-print brocades. Each sugar-coated outfit congruously merged into the next. Gorgeous tie-up wedge heels were worn by virtue of La Louboutin. 

Paul Smith

Paul Smith provided a welcomed break from all the prints with his Spring 2012 collection. I like the relaxed sophistication conveyed by the outfits and the models; who were simple in flat moccasins, floppy hats, wind-swept hair and sunglasses. The hands-in-pockets approach was underpinned by cropped trousers, drop-waist dresses, casual buttoned-down shirts and comfy-looking tees. Looks were commonly threaded by skinny leather belts. I am coveting those flat yellow ankle boots pictured second from last on the bottom row.

Erdem

Turkish-Canadian designer Erdem Moralioglu delivered a floaty and feminine range for Spring 2012. Wispy lace dresses were printed in powder blues, lemon chiffon and blanched almond. Beautifully pleated skirts swayed their way across the Savoy ballroom, where the show was held. Fitted dresses suited for a high society summer afternoon high were knee-length with three quarter sleeves. I like the use of unusual accessories like printed gloves and straw boater hats.

Michael van der Ham

Michael van der Ham has rightly earned his place at London Fashion Week. The Dutch novice reiterated his signature look with 3D colour collages and a juxtaposition of fabrics and textures. What looks like strips of fabric that is randomly pinned onto garments, is in fact, a result of van der Ham's carefully deliberated creative process. He showed off silk blouses, cropped cigarette pants and pencil skirts wrapped in chiffon. I like the freshness and blithely vibe that this collection offers. The models were accessorized with printed sunglasses and Christian Louboutin T-bar sandals.

Antonio Berardi

I am completely spellbound by Antonio Berardi's Spring 2012 range. This is my favourite collection of Fashion Week thus far. Fabrics in muted tones were animated by lavish beading. I love the fully sequined skinny pants and cropped bejeweled boleros. Ingenious. Billowy chiffon tunics had high necks and rise-and-fall hems. The warrior-inspired theme is manifested through structured jackets and metallic patent leather, while air light empire-waist gowns brought out a softer side. A truly gorgeous and glamourous collection...I must've bumped my head and went to fashion heaven.

New York Fashion Week Favourites 2011 - Part Two

New York Fashion Week 

Spring/Summer 2011-12

The second installment to my favourite collections of NYFW 2011. 

Jenny Packham

No season of Gossip Girl is complete without a Jenny Packham dress. And it's easy to see why. The British designer's Spring 2012 collection melds sequins into floaty chiffon with a result that is graceful and feminine. Sheer fluid gowns were presented in delectable shades of lemon, mint, aqua, orange and cherry. There was a focus on asymmetrical tops and hems, soft pleating, as well as low v-necks and floral embellishments. Models were styled with cross-ankle strap sandals, crimson lips and pin straight hair. 

Badgely Mischka

 The imaginative duo at Badgely Mischka set a florid and sugary tone for Spring 2012. What I love most about this collection is the vivid use of texture. Sculptural gowns were enriched with opulent fabrics like shantung, brocade, beaded chiffon and organza. Candy-store colours glazed the runway in fuchsia, purple, citrons and turquoise, then mellowed into softer shades. Satin bow belts clinched-in waists, while flounces and frilled hems added weight to the saccharine dresses. A delightful collection for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Elie Tahari

Amidst all the chaos of elaborate and overstated collections, I found tranquility in the designs of Elie Tahari. He looked to ancient Egypt as an inspiration, which is visible through the placid colour scheme. Desert sandy beiges and stone, sunset oranges, blue oases and Cleopatra-tinged gold mesh. Work-wear is given a glamourous edge with sheer cuffed harem pants, double-breasted suit blazers, silky shirt dresses and flared pants. Metallic gold belts were an essential accessory, as well as gorgeous strappy gladiator sandals. This is an effortless range that truly defines casual elegance.

Marchesa

 Marchesa does tulle unlike any other. Georgina Chapman and Karen Craig's signature fairytale touch was seen throughout their Spring 2012 collection. The pair were inspired by the beauty of the sea, more specifically, the 1876 painting of Russian artist Ilya Repin, called Sadko in the Underwater Kingdom. Voluminous gowns were sumptuously enveloped in tulle and chiffon, shaded in lavender grey, pearl white and caramel nudes. A fair amount of fringing and feathers also made its way down the runway. Although completely impractical, I love how this collection provides a magical kind of escapism.

Naeem Khan

 Another ornate and impressive collection by Mumbai-born designer Naeem Khan. Each outfit makes a bold statement; whether it's with metallic stripes, bright colour, floral prints, feathered hems or shimmering beadwork. Naeem's wife, Ranjana designed the exotic pieces of jewellery paired with each outfit. I like how the silhouettes varied from fitted to ballgown to flowing kaftans. Khan presented a glamourous range of gowns that are extravagant without being over the top. 

 Jill Stuart

 Jill Stuart's Spring reverie for 2012 is a sublime collection of feminine outfits. I love the combination of sorbet shades that harmoniously blend together. Lemonade and lavender, peppermint and peach; It's fresh and unexpected. I haven't seen anything like this in fashion week. There were plenty of shorts and pleated knee-length skirts in this girly-glam collection. Stuart made use of interesting and unusual prints, like palm trees, birds, cherry blossoms and Japanese doll-like designs. Tousled hair and, kohl line eyes and rose-tinted lips completed the doll house experience.