Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring 2011

Divinely Dior

Astounding is quite possibly the only referenced word that springs to mind when one views Galliano's incredible new spring 2011 collection for Christian Dior Haute Couture. With today being only day one of the Paris couture shows, John Galliano has single-handedly set the industry bar dramatically high once again with his unparalleled creations. The vibrant presentation featured a rather lovely abundance of tulle and voluminous fabrics set on cinched waistlines and crisp silhouettes utilizing colorful gradients to emphasize shadows. Prominent was the era-defining New Look with Galliano drawing inspiration from Monsieur Dior's own resident artist and fashion illustrator, René Gruau. Naturally, the show segued toward the stunning evening gown segment which exhibited Dior-invented A-line silhouettes and bow-featured waistlines on pleated dresses, both a clear and affectionate homage to Dior's revolutionary New Look.

Elegance. Extravagance. Sophistication. = Christian Dior

All photos courtesy of Women's Wear Daily

Pre-Fall 2011: Byzantine Empire Reigns in Chanel

Chanel Empress

Ancient? Extinct? I think not. At the helm of Chanel's own fashion empire, trend-setting Karl Lagerfeld has single-handedly resurrected Byzantium for his pre-fall 2011 "Métiers d’Art" collection. Directly citing Gabrielle Chanel and the Byzantine empress, Theodora, as inspirations, Lagerfeld has blended ancient beauty with modern style. From updates of classic Chanel tweeds to prominent gold detailing, Chanel's homage to a stylish empire remains unsurpassed.

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Chanel.

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