Franck Sorbier: Softness, Courage and Quiet Respect
By Mari Davis
Photos by FW

PARIS, Jul 8, 2004/ FW/ – In a requiem for life and in loving memory, Sorbier (photo at left) dedicated his Autumn Winter 2004/05 Haute Couture collection to six friends.

His custom-made distinguishable stylized 19 looks graced the alfresco archways of Beaux Arts on an apt rainy day for a winter showing, with Parisian temperatures this week being decisively below the summer average.

With sunshine gone, his choice of an autumn palette in tangerines, desert yellows and olive greens, leaf falling browns and cloudy day neutrals managed all the same to warm the soul.

Religious softness and quiet respect with names given to outfits like Requiem, Kyrie Eleison, Benedictus and bride as In Paradisum, Sorbier adheres to and helps to sustain the strong and definitive trends emerging so far this Haute Couture where tradition, European history and elaborate research are in full swing.

Hints of Asia and its courage from Japanese rice paper kimono to Indian sari beautifulness, this Haute Couturier’s recognizable ornamental diverseness is seen through his intricate stitching, embroidery and hand painting of custom fabrics that are both created and selected by Sorbier himself.

Since 1990 and after 14 years on his own, he has become one of the most respected names in Couture. Details are enhanced further through his use of pearls and exquisitely beaded lace that are finally cleanly cut and pieced together in all apparent simplicity, demonstrating why his clientele are so faithful to their master craftsman.

Franck Sorbier

Franck Sorbier

Franck Sorbier

Franck Sorbier