Tango in Paris

Ebony, June, 2004 by Eunice W. Johnson

The spring and slimmer fashions presented by French designers in Paris inspire tango and other spirited--though sensual--dance steps. In fact, some designers actually bad dancers accompany the models down the runway, Overall the theme was social elegance and party attire that can take you from a high-society ball to a night of clubbing. Among the designers presenting beautiful, sensual ball gowns were Alexander McQueen, Valentino, Viktor and Rolf, Fatima Lopez and Christian Dior. Fabrics ranged from body-clinging satins to sheer chiffons and beaded net, and styles were mostly cleavage, shoulder and midriff-revealing--all celebrating the beauty of the feminine form. Whether you are tangoing in Paris, two-stepping in New York or doing a slow jam on the West Coast, French designers have something to inspire you to find your groove.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Caption: Alexander McQueen designs a beautiful dress for tangoing in Paris or wherever you are partying. Peach silk charmeuse, 1920s-inspired twist/draped slip gown is accessorized with feather shrug.

Caption: Draped tulle embellished with rhinestones Terms floor-length decolletage dress that is worn over black trousers: By Viktor and Rolf.

Center: Satin butterfly bustier halter is worn over dropped-waist, body-hugging cigarette capri pants trimmed in satin.

Tango with sass in Fatima Lopez's single-strap party dress with asymmetrical hemline generously embellished with organza flower petals. Worn with gold thong sandals with multiple-buckle, calf-length leather leggins.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Caption: Far Left: For the confident woman who wants to make a bold statement Christian Dior designs sheer champagne-colored, hip-sashed chiffon blouson dress with long fringe trim. Worn with crocodile jacket trimmed in fur.

Left: Blue satin matador-style blouse with elbow length puff sleeves is worn over blue and gold print ribbon-banded blouson skirt. Accessorized with handbag trimmed in blue, and gold and blue sandals. By Loui Vuitton.

Above, center; Summer casual is redefined with ensemble of tan embroidered knit top with turn-back collar and brown crocodile skirt with wide hipster belt. Accessorized with long, flowing pink/brown/tan chiffon scarf and brown leather handbag with long fringe.

Above, right: Bedazzle the social crowd in Katoucha's ankle-length hooded column gown. Accessorized with unusual gold and red jewelry and gold sandals.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Caption: Gorgeous blue ensemble of body-tied bodice worn over sarong draped skirt. Accessorized with three-strand silver necklace with blue gem pendants and silver sandals. By Valentino.

Right: Chloe's strapless black net babydoll camisole is worn over rolled-up parachute pants.

Above: Mint-green cummerbund draped halter is worn layered organza skirt. By Nako.

Left: Short white handkerchief draped chemise cocktail dress is anchored to jeweled gold Egyptian-inspired collar. Worn with matching jeweled gold sandals. By Celine.

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