PARIS, Jan 24, 2006/ FW/ --- The saying, ‘We get better as we get older,’ has to be paraphrased for Karl Lagerfeld to ‘He gets better and better as each season passes,’ as he presented today at the Grand Palais in what arguably gives us a glimpse to the future of haute couture.

With a tubular spiral staircase towering all the way to the skylight ceiling of the Grand Palais on an all white stage, the atmosphere was an optimistic future where purity and beauty reigned.

This is Karl Lagerfeld’s vision of 21st century haute couture – rounded shoulders, sloping capes with delicate flowers, snug fitting bodice emphasizing the waist, tiny ruffles and bows that instead of proclaiming 18th century were saying 23rd, fringe hemlines that soften the firm lines of signature Chanel boots with their black toes and black line in front.

Most of the time, a futuristic look gives a harsh quality, but not Karl’s. The feeling was soft and romantic. Yet, instead of the dreamy ‘Romeo & Juliet’ kind of romance, this was base on a sophisticated and aware world where black lean pants is paired with a black tulle train complete with lace arm warmers.

No, this is not Star Trek, nor is it Star Wars. This a vision of fashion’s future, positive, hopeful and confident, wherein the age-old tradition of craftsmanship in couture is being used and handed down to the next generation.

Because it is obvious that the Chanel ateliers were very busy for the past several months to make this collection into reality – the cake icing burst embroidery, the micro accordion pleats that look like horizontal stripes, the braided straps made to look line chains, the cascading ostrich feathers the billow as the model walks.

Still, a very important artistry is unseen – the undergarments that is the backbone of the gowns and dresses. And this is what makes haute couture special. A bustline life is not surgical, rather it is the way the garment is cut and executed. Liposuction is unneeded, as the bodice is made tiny with perfect tailoring.

So, for those who are saying that haute couture is dying, eat your hearts out because Karl Lagerfeld said that it is just taking its first strides and definitely part of fashion’s future.

Chanel

Chanel

Chanel

Chanel