Mary Katrantzou Spring 2013 is All About Stamps, Money and Swarovski Crystal Mesh.

 

Mary Katrantzou used the theme of world history. She looked at postage stamps which transcend time and space as well as banknotes and their colors, patterns and images and all of the cultural significance that all of them have and created signature prints that she is known for. These prints were presented on white backgrounds and the silhouettes were clean with bold A-line dresses making a big statement.

The  gorgeous evening gowns were made from fabulous Swarovski crystal mesh\ that had been fused to silk brocade and printed in intricate patterns. A couple of trouser suits in navy and pearl were elegantly understated and had an adrogynous appeal yet looked glamorous.

Katrantzou's use of brocade integrated with Swarovski crystal mesh this season took her design abilities to a whole new level. A smart, intelligent designer who is constantly exploring, Katrantzou uses her keen eye and creativity to create masterful clothes and keeps her reputation as master of prints.

For this collection, she highly suggests not to look at the stamps or money in the collection but notice the colors, patterns and the prints and enjoy the beauty of it all. It is worth it. Full stop.

Mary Katrantzou
Spring/Summer
2013

Glamorous Sculptures at Alexis Mabille Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2012/2013.



The fall couture showing of Alexis Mabille followed after Raf Simon's much anticipated debut at Christian Dior. That is a tough act to follow. At Dior the collection was a much stripped down modernity. At Alexis Mabille an opulent and glamorous line up was unveiled at the Shangri-La Hotel. The gowns were inspired by precious jewels and were made of silky velvets, metallic lace, stretch sequins fabric and lames in beautiful rich shades of emerald, garnet, tanzanite - and some were sprinkled with fabulous Swarofsky crystals for the extra bling.



The lamé dresses looked like sheets of iridescent foil sculpted onto the body giving a very shiny a sense of young kitsch. The Hollywood-like silhouettes would have been fitting for classic stars like Bette Davis, Marlene Dietrich, or Carole Lombard.

Beautiful red and black crepe gowns featured beautiful cowl backs, a beaded silver gown had a fragile touch of a midnight blue sheath over it and the nude color finale gown gave a beautiful whisper of subtle sex appeal with a touch of sparkle under a layer of tulle.

I like that Mabille takes risks in silhouettes, fabric choice, and details. The outcome is always charming. Just like him!

Alexis Mabille

Haute Couture

Fall/Winter

2012-2013