The Valentino Autumn/Winter 2014/15 collection at the recent, annual Paris Haute Couture show was dazzling and inspirational. The catwalk was set on a hollowed out tree trunk with brown bark surrounded by living walls, Centurion styled nymphs were clad in flat gladiatorial/Greco-esq sandals and fun, leather-belted tunics. Many layers on some of the dresses were appliquéd with black and gold, Roman-styled flowers which looked eternally elegant. We also saw various spliced-neck dresses and twinsets covered in typical intrecciato weaves and amazing gold lacework.
The range reminded the observers of the pure sensuality of Olympus. So many of the gowns were silhouetted slender, ethereal designs. Our team particularly liked the crossed by leather lace straps, they looked splendid and seductive, the flowing draped silks and flat crisscross sandals really worked welll.
The wardrobe palette consisted of white, gold, black, and a favourite colour of mine - sky blue right down to nudes and deep reds. The overall concept was utterly chic it was a strong 61-piece collection which drew on the natural beauty of crepe silks, sheer tulle and marbled wool in draped or column-styled silhouettes. The draped pale blue gown with gentle ripples was a firm favourite of the FashionThirst team.
Emma Watson - the face of Burberry turned up to the show very late. Kim Kardashian arrived to see the collection in a plunging ice blue gown which caused a stir with photographers. She turned up with house founder Valentino Garavani. As they say 'choose your friends wisely'. Kim did.
Monica Cummings
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