From July 1 to July 5, Paris was the host once again to some exceptional designs and craftsmanship, which were showcased during Paris Haute Couture. At first glance, seeing images from these shows may conjure up a lot of questions - who wears these clothes, is this fashion or art, how much does this cost and the list goes on.

A line-up of closing looks from the Fall-Winter 2018/19 #CHANELHauteCouture collection

For me, I love watching Paris Haute Couture for the locations, the shows and most importantly the fashion.

Let's take a look at the Chanel show. First of all, Karl Lagerfeld does not ever disappoint. From creating Parisian streets to space - yes, space - to a greenhouse to an airport all within the walls of the Grand Palais, there is something to be said about seeing one's vision come full circle. And, without a doubt, we understand Lagerfeld's vision when he shows Haute Couture.

As Lagerfeld told WWD's Bridget Foley of his Fall/Winter 2018 show, "“It is very Paris, it is very French. But you know, French couture is about promoting Paris. It is part of my job.”

Promoting Paris and Chanel is what Lagerfeld does oh so well.

With every Chanel show Lagerfeld does - he has been at Chanel for over three decades, he continues to stay true to Coco Chanel while infusing his own twists. Of course, having a show with a giant space rocket in the center does add a different perspective; yet, the iconic Chanel suit is always included and does not look dated or stale.

Onto the craftsmanship. Here's what Lagerfeld said about this topic on Chanel.com, which I think sums it up so well.

"What I like in Haute Couture is that it is devilishly done. You don’t necessarily see it, but a very good eye can notice it right away."
 
It's all about the details.

Now, I must move onto Valentino. This Italian brand is currently under the creative direction of Pierpaolo Piccioli. Many times, brands use the current "it" model to walk in their show or close it out, especially during Haute Couture. For Valentino, they enlisted Cindy Crawford's daughter, Kaia Gerber. It was a look she wore down the runway that I cannot stop looking at.

Is the hair over the top - literally - yes. Do I have a need for a dress this extravagant - well, no. Yet, how else I read this image is that Piccioli is showing something different for hair on the runway. He is also showing feathers and pink. And, it's not just any pink but a soft pink. Yes, much like Miranda Priestly in the "Devil Wears Prada", all of these details trickle down. Of course, when all is said and done - let's face it, imagine how many hours it took to make this dress. Amazing! And, I am so happy to see these skilled artisans are employed and there is a demand for their trade.

Even if Haute Couture or even runway is something you generally do not take an interest in, I encourage you to look past the initial facade and look at the details, from the location to the craftsmanship, as it sheds a whole new light on this world of fashion. 

- Aimee

P.S. Speaking of Italian, be sure to check out Adea's camisoles, which are made with Italian fabric.

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