MILAN, Feb 22, 2005/ FW/ – Where the seventies meet the eighties at a cross roads, or perhaps in a nostalgic future past, Christian Lacroix for Emilio Pucci redefines the female silhouette and turning black into the new color.

For fall winter 2005/06 Lacroix adds and takes volume as he pleases. Sleek slim shiny trousers adhere to long lean legs, whereas roomy sleeves and long banded jackets, pleated skirts and knee length straight-legged shorts, even in the winter, revel in volume.

Pucci is usually a psychedelic trip into print heaven, but times are changing, and while they are still the maestros of Technicolor, the dreams have been toned down. Black is not only used as solid, but new essential staple for Lacroix as he mixes and matches it with decadent gold and luscious pinks.

Touches of ethnic worldly influences come in way of coins, seemingly metallic paint splashes across dresses and coats and asymmetrical mini pleats, gathers and sought after streamer grass skirt effects that often appear from the waist down.

The upper torso and waistline are accentuated, showing off the female form. From high waisted trousers and skirts to boned bodices and tulip skirts are all part of the Lacroix wardrobe for Pucci next winter.

Daywear is special but evenings are divine in bold mono colored dresses. Fit for the flowing red carpet in bright orange or full length sequined gowns; they dance in the breeze and bring warmth to the cold air.

Rumored that this may be Lacroix’s last season with the Italian fashion giant, lets hope this was not a goodbye collection, that contracts will be revised successfully and that he continues to push the print mania boundaries of contemporary women’s fashion.

Emilio Pucci by Christian Lacroix

Emilio Pucci by Christian Lacroix

Emilio Pucci by Christian Lacroix

Emilio Pucci by Christian Lacroix