Versace Haute Couture 12-13 show

Last night at Paris’ majestic Ritz Hotel, Atelier Versace did what the house has always excelled at: celebrating the female form by wrapping it in yet another fantastical universe. Inspired by a game of tarot card, the collection freely reinterpreted the moon, the sun and the elements, through an organic fusion of textures, and contrasts of silhouettes. The pale, soft sheen of the moon was translated into an ivory evening dress composed of a patent leather strip bustier and voluminous chiffon skirt. A warm morning sun was suggested in a short, embroided trench, composed of silk and transparent sequins; the gleaming result was paired with a matching, hand-embroided belt, and was reminiscent of Versace’s classical crop cuts. As the show progressed, the elements came pouring onto the runway. Daytime wear included an aqua printed mini dress, in satin superimposed with plastic seemed to nudge at the Mediterranean sea; built entirely in strips, and held together by rose gold buckles, the result was constructed and sexy. As for nightime garde-robe, a floral-print draped evening dress in crêpe de chine added a natural, romantic touch to the collection