BALMAIN FALL 2016

BALMAIN FALL 2016

Designer Olivier Rousteing of Balmain produced a hedonistic, sizzling collection steeped in opulence. Feminine, sculptural silhouettes reminiscent of Alexander McQueen's design DNA featured, pulsating energy echoing throughout. The decadent collection was held at the Palais Royal and played host to a menagerie of celebrities, all ready for their close up.

Model of the moment, Kendall Jenner opened the show in a powdered storm grey, pinstripe, sharp shouldered, full length, cardigan coat teamed to matching body con tank. A restrictive, high waisted, corseted skirt fell on the upper thigh. Details included boning, silver hook and eye and sumptuous fur panels.Suede thigh high boots emulating Stuart Weitzman's 'Highland' style concluded the look.

Tami Williams exuded 80s prowess in a powerhouse suede and fur sleeve, crossover, wrapped jacket. The voluminous jacket was paired to high waisted, flat front, stretch suede leggings. A signature boxing belt in chrome finalised the ensemble.

Danish beauty Josephine Skriver modelled an ice vo-vo, baroque inspired creation comprising of a high neck with cut out shoulder detail, ornate rose gold pearl embellishment and copious rows of tasselled pointrines dangling from the bust and sleeves. A white and gold cincher nipped in the waist which flowed fluidly into a scalloped hem mini skirt adorned with delicate, undulating beading. 

Statuesque Karlie Kloss took to the runway in a ballet pink, corseted camisole. The structured bodice celebrated the female silhouette. Ethereal, transparent lace trousers caressed legs and starred cascading silk waterfall ruffles. A corrugated crystal plate choker with gold hardware was oversized and hardened the romantic garments. A powder puff blue, tapestry silk brocade ignited a striking, off the shoulder, long sleeve, corseted blouse. Sheer panels highlighted the decolletage with brocade seams concluding the peplum blouse. Matching body conscious, stretch trousers encased every curve of Katya Ledneva's lithe physique.

Catwoman references were evident on a  sensual, black velvet, bodysuit. Long sleeves, structured shoulders, nude panelling and velvet breast cups exuded a modern day gothic renegade. Stretch flat front trousers with darting concluded the fierce look.

A spectacular collection brimming with couture like finesse. Perennial party girls rejoice, Rousteing has delivered yet again.

By Courtney Jones.