Fashion fair: the theater of fashion - French couture 2003

Ebony, Dec, 2003 by Eunice W. Johnson

French couture this season certainly offers what the fashionista has come to expect of exclusive, expensive, handmade haute couture collections. There is drama, here is theater, there is the exotic. Some styles--such as Versace's draped, wrapped gown--are simply stunning. Others are breathtaking, while some spark the imagination and others curiosity. Even so, the haute couture designs presented in Paris this season were dazzling, entertaining and ultrafeminine. On these pages, we showcase some of the memorable designs.

Opposite page: Take the spotlight in ELIE SAAB's lilac floral chiffon sheer silk gown with fitted horizontal bodice and once sleeve.

This page: VERSACE's stunning creamy-taupe evening gown is pleated, wrapped and tied and has fitted, embroidered bodice.

Far right: "Man style" at its sexiest is presented by JEAN LOUIS SCHERRER in this double-breasted pant ensemble. Tan jacket with unusual lapel over white, wide-legged pant. Accessorized with white cap and gloves.

Left: Display your theatrical side in FRANK SORBIER'S metallic lace ensemble with kimono sleeves and scalloped edges.

Right: STELLA CADENTE offers a sassy rainbow-hued tutu worn beneath black satin sleeveless cocktail dress with fuchsia lining.

Right: JI HAYE'S white wrapped-coat dress has irregular hemline and opulent. oversized sleeves. Worn with white gloves.

Asymmetrical black jersey toga gown draped around and through white bodice shield. Note: White platform sole on black satin ankle-tie shoes.

Right: Black and white poodle-cut fur coat is tied at waist with bright green sash. Both by JEAN LOUIS SCHERRER.

Above: Pink suit has long-sleeve jacket with rectangular peplum, tie with brooch at waist, and black fur collar, worn over knee-length panel skirt. Accessorized with black pillbox hat and white gloves. By JEAN LOUIS SCHERRER.

Head-turning lace-covered wedding dress has laced-up bustier bodice and long skirt with pleated underskirt. Detached lace sleeves have pleated cuffs. Lace veil flows into train. Worn with white boots. By GERALD WATELET.

Right: Elegance prevails in GIVENCHY ensemble of slate chiffon with pleated cape and key-hole-cut, draped sleeveless gown.

Right: Sophisticated elegance makes a statement in HANAE MORI's form-fitting purple embroidered gown with asymmetrical portrait neckline, one sleeve and oversized silver brooch on shoulder. Note: Black scallop detail.