Haute Couture FW19: Giambattista Valli, Iris van Herpen, and Rami Al Ali

Giambattista Valli’s Fall/Winter 2019 Haute Couture collection was like a garden bursting with sweet smells and lush, flowery blooms. In illustrious volumes and lengths, the collection was based on a palette of rosy pink, lavender, soft green, sky blue, and pearly white. Prints included several floral variations, while gathered tulle, silk, and other materials reminded us of whimsical bouquets composed of fluffy peonies and budding roses. Highlights included the column dress in lavender; the angelic three-tiered white gown; the selection of playful-yet elegant mini dresses with long, billowing trains; and the hairpieces (either a flower or a black bow) finishing off each look.

Iris van Herpen created a “Hypnotic,” a wow-worthy collection employing the magic of nature’s tapestries based on artist Anthony Howe and his entrancing sculpture, Omniverse. Emerging from behind the sculpture that started it all, models walked a runway in multilayered organza creations that entranced the viewers with their folds, curves, and ombré elemental hues. Created using ancient silk moiré weaving and laser cutting and techniques, the collection’s 19 unconventional silhouettes each defied gravity as their rounded, curved, zig-zagged, and wing-like extensions remained perfectly in place. Looks we loved included the strapless floating silhouette in a mix of greens, whites, and deep purples; and the fire-hued mini dress with the layered sculptural sleeves.

The splendid interiors of Paris’ Hotel Ritz made a picturesque location for Rami Al Ali’s Fall/Winter 2019 Haute Couture collection. Inspired by the 19th century Café Society, the collection took cues from iconic beauties, highlighting the glamorous women who graced the fashion and social scenes of the era. Classically feminine silhouettes were updated with architectural shapes and details, like a cherry red gown with an ankle-grazing ballet-style skirt and a one-shouldered cutout, or a voluminous bell-sleeved coat with a structured turtle-neck, covered in tiny pearls and petals. Other eye-catching styles included the mini dress that appeared as though it could be a bow atop a present; the crystal-covered gown in cream; and the gold sequined gown that appeared as if it came straight out of a black-and-white film. Each look was accompanied with simple, matching heels, and a sleek French twist updo.