The Latest From PFW Spring 2011 - [Partie Deux]

 Chanel

For spring, Karl Lagerfeld seemed to pull out whatever remaining stop he might have (really, how can there be any left after last fall's iceberg?). The collection was a staggering 85-plus exits, each one offering its own delight, and set against meandering white paths, low black hedge-like curlicues and three fountains. Oh, and full orchestra. It was inspired by the 60s film Last Year at Marienbad.

Alexander McQueen

It's tough to carry on the mantle of a man who was near idolized in the industry. Just ask anyone who's ever worked at YSL after YSL. It must be that much more difficult when that man was your mentor and friend. But Sarah Burton, Alexander McQueen's long-time top lieutenant, proved she was up to the task. And then some. Her spring collection, the first since McQueen's death in February, captures all the elements of signature McQueen—tailoring, construction, drama, narrative.

Valentino

Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Picciolione’s feminine take on spring was Valentino to its core. Good thing, considering Mr. Valentino himself was sitting front and center. It started on a sweet note—a polkadotted belted dress with flounced shoulders—that would linger to the end. 

Yves Saint Laurent 

In a season dominated by 70s Yves Saint Laurent references, all eyes were on what the house of Saint Laurent would actually do. More to the point, how designer Stefano Pilati would reference it, if at all. No pressure, right? Well, he delivered and then some. 

Bisous!XX

~H