Models present creations by Moroccan-born Israeli designer Alber Elbaz for Lanvin during the Fall/Winter 2012-2013 ready-to-wear collection show in Paris. Photo AFP
PARIS (AFP) – Lanvin put on a spectacular Fashion Week show Friday night in Paris to mark Alber Elbaz’ 10 years at the helm of the French house, giving way to a star-studded bash complete with live orchestra.
Hong Kong actress Maggie Cheung, Scotland’s Tilda Swinton, or the strip artist Dita Von Teese were among the celebrities who gave a standing ovation to the Israeli couturier, one of the fashion world’s most respected figures.
Dressed in his trademark black suit and bow tie, Elbaz climbed on stage to sing the opening lines of the classic tune, “Que sera, sera”.
“This is a song for all those I love, and who helped me make my dream come true,” he told an enraptured audience.
Canapes, champagne and huge pastel-coloured cakes were passed around the room as the guests arrived earlier.
The runway show itself opened at a heady pace with bright colours and technical fabrics like diving suit neoprene for daytime.
Dresses were adorned with wide flounces that left the back bare, while a show-stopping velvet bustier dress was covered in white pleated flounces, worn with long leather gloves and bright red heels.
Touches of fur came with a black and white long-haired coat, or boa-style wraps in two tones, like pink and violet.
A whole series of little black dresses, some embroidered with crystal motifs, was followed by copper-coloured numbers, and evening gowns with sophisticated drapes and just as elaborate jewellery.
AFP
