From Paris with Love - Paris Read-to-Wear autumn 2010

The Paris RTW shows are always a glamorous, sophisticated and uber chic affair. This year the undeniable star of the show was the late and great Alexander McQueen. His final collection, which was only 80% complete when he passed away, was shown to a small, intimate group and personified all that he, as a designer, was about. Structured and romantic pieces with an underlying medieveal tone featured exquisite jacquard fabrics, feathers and collars in rich golds, reds and blacks. It was a fitting tribute to a designer who was incredibly skilled and deeply passionate about his craft. Valentino used ruffles to great effect, scattering them on gowns and jackets. The pieces were feminine however they had a modern edginess that gave a taste as to what's to come from the famed label. It was nice to see a few bright colours shine including Valentino's signature colour, red. Marc Jacobs weaved his magical wand at Louis Vuitton creating a homage to the 50's and 60's with circle skirts, wasp-like waists and ample bosom. High ponytails and square toed shoes with block heels added innocent schoolgirl femininity. As always Elie Saab created some beautiful evening gowns. A rather dark collection, key colours included midnight blues, burgandy's and teals. Sheer fabrics and shoulder draping kept the rather sexy looks feminine and pretty.

I should also note there is a beautiful and moving video tribute to McQueen on his website. Visit www.alexandermcqueen.com to see the tribute and to view his final collection.