Couture 2009 Highlights

Here are a few images and thoughts of the Fall 2009 Couture Collections. There was a definite sense of concern in all of the articles written about the collections for the future of Couture. With Christian Lacroix's financial difficulties this year, we all continue to wonder what is going to happen next. Many of the collections were small but there were some definite show stoppers!

Christian Lacroix

It's now no secret that the house of Christian Lacroix is in serious financial trouble. He had to dip into his ribbon stock to create this colllection and paid the models out of his own pocket. Badges were being handed out at the show that read "Christian Lacroix Forever." Financial backers are being encouraged to send letters of intent this month. We can only hope that someone will rescue this magnificent label. If the label does survive, Lacroix will begin creating looks in September. Of the fall looks he said:

"For next autumn-winter, it will be "close-fitting silhouettes, sexy but gentle, with something going on at the back, bare shoulders under scarves which highlight them, black tone-on-tone embroidery... the classic repertory of the house, what is left, the hard disk." (via NyMag)

His collection consisted of elegant skirts and jackets. Each item was impeccably designed but it was clear that this was created to lure potential buyers. Nevertheless it brought the models to tears and a standing ovation at the end of the show.

(Image via NyMag)

Jean Paul Gaultier

The collection was a little bit difficult to follow. There seemed to be a variety of themes all thrown together. The collection included corsets, trenches, body suits, gowns and jackets in Matrix styled blacks and a patchwork of golds.

Gaultier's take on Priss
from Blade Runner?

Can anyone else picture Lady Gaga in this look?

Elie Saab

Elie Saab's collection was a stunner but his show concept did not go over very well with fashion journalists and industry insiders. He chose to present his all white collection at the Rue Cambon bank where Karl Largerfeld showed his all white collection for Chanel back in January. The similarities were too close for many. The collection consisted of tailored jackets and short dresses and skirts all elegantly embroidered and embellished.

Armani Privé

Giorgio Armani featured a multitude of pant suits in this couture collection. It was a new and more modern take on the traditional pant suit. There were unique cuts, fastenings and lines in each and every one of the looks. He also featured some amazing gowns that could be worn on any red carpet.

(Images via style.com)