Paris Couture/Spring 2014
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Couture stands as the ultimate representation of fashion fantasy. Unlike the fast fashion clothes that dominate the market on a global scale, hours upon hours of work are put into a single couture item. With their impeccable craftsmanship and ultra-luxe fabrications, couture clothes can stand the test of time. But fantasy means nothing if no one buys it.
In the past few seasons, thanks to Karl Lagerfeld, Raf Simons, and rising stars like Bouchra Jarrar, couture has experienced a revitalized energy and wearability that’s given it a whole new relevance. This time around, there was lightness to both the fabrics and silhouettes, whether it was the draping silk in Donatella Versace’s homage to Grace Jones, or Karl’s sneakers and kneepads at Chanel. We found plenty of perfect red carpet gowns that have already made their way onto the awards show circuit (and will certainly appear at the Oscars), as well as casual-chic, modern looks that aren’t typically associated with couture. It’s this new modernity of couture that is continuing to attract both the longtime collectors of the historic craft, as well as a whole new breed of eager couture clients. Couture’s reach extends far beyond this extremely niche group of shoppers, however. We’ll most certainly see the trends and inspirations at couture, like the elegant Garden of Eden Valentino collection this season, trickle down at the Fall 2014 shows and eventually, into the scent you wear or the lipstick shade of the season.
All images credited to Style.com