Rami Al Ali HCS14 (20)PARIS, Jan 21, 2014/ — Now on his fifth season in Paris, Syrian-born designer Rami Al Ali unveiled his Spring/Summer 2014 couture collection to an exclusive audience at the Hotel Le Meurice.

Opting for intimate presentation during Paris Haute Couture instead of a runway show, Rami Al Ali nevertheless captured the attention of his discerning clientele with a collection inspired by John Everett Millais’ painting of Ophelia, Shakespeare’s tragic heroine.

Renowned for infusing fashion with the Arts, Spring 2014 sees Al Ali breathe new depths into style, with an influx of looser contours and flowing fabrics. Lashings of lace amplify the melancholic theme, as lighter, sheer textiles provide fluidity in sync with the waters of Ophelia’s demise.

Pastel hues set the focal palette of the line, with shades of soft mint, wheat, lavender and rose, fortified through more vivid tones of violet and coral. Feminine silhouettes are accentuated through bias cuts, using modern techniques paying homage to the early 20th century designs of Parisian fashion great, Lucien Lelong.

Staying true to his roots, Al Ali imparts his signature flair with intricate floral detailing, fusing his love of the finer elements with this prominent characteristic of the theme.

Stunning embellishment is found embedded into the textiles, which drape elegantly to the ground with whimsical allure.

With unique craftsmanship applied to each piece, the collection becomes a work of art itself, as designs are displayed on installations rather than models, and thus allowing observers full perspective of the elaborate techniques used.

Once again, Al Ali seamlessly embodies the sentiments of his subject with organic charm, as his 15-piece collection gives a new vision to Millais’ masterpiece.

Photos courtesy of Rami Al Ali