Christian Lacroix: In Top Form
By Mari Davis

PARIS, Jan 21, 2004/ FW/ --- I have to admit. I am very partial to Christian Lacroix. I have always loved his work and admire his ability with colors. And his haute couture Spring 2004 is everything I expected and more.

Starting with the seemingly simple blue overcoat worn by Karolina Kurkova, which turned out to be statement of pink in a very fluid dress, to the wedding gown with encrusted pearls and jewels, I was enthralled.

A great colorist, Christian Lacroix defined what a spring collection should be – a burst of color, an enjoyment of the earth coming back to life after the dead winter.

This collection also showed that the designer could be as playful as a child. Deriving from the basic technique of how we splatter paint as children, Christian Lacroix made it into an art form, creating a mini dress that is part hip hop, part rock & roll, but also very definitely couture!

Lacroix who loves “period pieces” did the most unlikely amalgamation this season, the court of Marie Antoinette and hip-hop.

A less accomplished designer would have not pulled it off. But with Christian Lacroix’s masterful execution, it all jived, resulting to a contemporary collection that can make even the most ardent fans of hip hop want it.

Using tie-dying techniques, the designer created gowns and dress, even tiny lingerie-like pieces that is truly outerwear.

Adding couture techniques of beading and embroidery, the designer’s interpretation of hip-hop is his own – colorful, dainty and sophisticated.

Like most designers, Christian Lacroix is very much aware of the changing clientele of couture and the need to expand its market-base.

With the impending biggest change of hands of wealth in the U.S., as older Americans pass on their accumulated fortune to the younger generation, the world of haute couture is also on the verge of acquiring new clients.

Christian Lacroix is showing that he is one of the first who has recognized that fact with his couture’s interpretation of hip-hop.

And the best part of all this, the designer has stayed true to his art! So, how can you not admire a man like that? I know I do. And I will repeat what I said in the beginning, I have always been partial to Christian Lacroix.

Christian Lacroix

Christian Lacroix

Christian Lacroix

Christian Lacroix