Paris Fashion Week

Paris Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2012-13: The New Silhouette

Rescu Team — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:22:06 GMT

When creative directors are playing musical chairs, traffic is in gridlock and it’s the last leg of show month, fashion can be very tiring! Luckily, Paris Fashion Week provided a pick-me-up with intelligent, modern and suitably eccentric fashions.

By Julia Frank

Leather, Fetish And Fantasy At Louis Vuitton A/W 2011

Super User — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 13:13:00 GMT

By Chloe Brinklow

Things got steamy at the Carre du Louvre, where Louis Vuitton showcased their A/W 2011 collection for Paris fashion week. In an exploration of all things; leather, fetish and fantasy, catwalk rebels, Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell made a fitting (and controversial) appearance.

RESCU brings you all the gloss and goss from the runway…

The Clothes

In a theatrical extravaganza, French maids, bellboys, and scantily clad models took to the runway, where creative director Marc Jacobs combined fashion and fetish! Inspiration for the collection came from Jacob’s fascination with women’s overwhelming (almost fetish-like) obsession with designer handbags!

Knee highs, leather, super-short shorts and high boots were all on display, and new variations of the infamous ‘LV’ print handbag had the front row swooning. Trenches were worn as dresses and each outfit almost look incomplete, as if the models were in the middle of getting dressed, or undressed.

The Hair And Make Up

With an out-there theme, hair and make up was kept simple and chic. Mid height, super slick ponytails were paired with stunning headbands and head pieces we just can’t get enough of. The Make Up can only be described as classic glam, with a fairly neutral base paired with a dark lined eye and nude lip.

The High Lights

Super model Kate Moss exploded onto the catwalk in a smoking display, literally! Cigarette in tow, in between puffs, she strutted her stuff in an all black ensemble with short-shorts, a leather and fur jacket, and cross over, gladiator sandal heels.
With all the stunts and drama, it was hard to focus on the clothes, but at RESCU we can’t complain – we thoroughly enjoyed it!

Images courtesy of Snapper Media.

Cool And Crazy Hair At Paris Fashion Week

Super User — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 13:13:00 GMT

By Chloe Brinklow

Paris is the motherland for classic, chic style but what about crazy and cool? Where would a Parisian fashonista go, to get inspiration to shake up there everyday look? The runway of course!

RESCU brings you Paris Fashion Week’s craziest hairstyles, with tips and tricks to recreate them at home, for those feeling a little daring...

Issey Miyake

It was gelled and slick at Issey Miyake, with two different styles inspired by geometric shapes and line walking down the runway. “I took the line as the starting point of the hair look and by experimenting with folding, stretching, and applying repetition and scale, I ended up with two different permutations of the same hair look” Eugene Souleiman, Global Creative Director at Wella Professionals explained.

One featured, painted on triangle shapes and the other a slick, platform where the hair sat high off the head and threaded back into the ponytail. Perfect for a night on the town, for those who want to stand out, or your next fancy dress party. RESCU tip: Apply hairspray to your brush and brush hair before styling, to add texture making it easier to keep hair at bay, sleek and sexy.

Haider Ackermann

At Haider Ackermann, it was all about the alien warrior, quirky yet sleek, with a very ConeHeads (1993) feel. Eugene Souleiman said, “I wanted the girls to look like a hybrid of nature, as if they were from another planet, so I created a hair look that morphed with the clothing to become part of the total look…”

We love the fact that something so out-there can remain structured and pretty. And there’s good news for the ‘shorties’ too - having the hair so high can add anywhere between 5-20cm height, making you look and feel taller.

Get the look with Eugene Souleiman's Expert Guide

1. Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair, and apply Wella Professionals High Hair Crystal Styler ($23.50) to the hair and blow dry the hair in an upwards direction from the jaw line, away from the face, flattening the roots using a soft bristle round brush.

2. Create a inner circle parting on the crown of the head, around 25cm in diameter, leaving the remaining hairline loose. Tie the hair in the inner circle in to a tight ponytail and secure with elastic. Using a piece of round padding to the height of around 25cm, pull the ponytail through the centre of the padding and secure the padding in place using long hair pins.

3. Part the pony tail in to four sections and tightly pull each section down over the padding and secure at the base with a hair pin then wrap the remaining hair around the base of the padding and again secure with hair pins. Repeat for all four sections as this will hold the ‘padding bun’ in place securely. Clip the loose front section of hair (just the section from eyebrow to eyebrow) out of the way.

4.Divide the remaining hair into three sections and pull each section up towards the top of the bun to create a ponytail and secure with elastic directly on the top of the bun. Fold the remaining hair of the ponytail and secure against the front of the bun using hair pins.

5. Take the front section and brush through to ensure that it’s smooth and tie with an elastic at the top towards the back of the bun (this will cover the other ponytail elastic), make sure that you create tension as you pull the hair back, using Wella Professionals High Hair Ultra Finishing Spray ($22) – sprayed directly on to a soft bristle brush to help hold in place and create a sleek finish.

6. Saturate the remaining ponytail with Wella Professionals High Hair Ultra Finishing Spray, then using a straightening iron, pull through the hair slowly to create a solid ‘blade’ shape at the back of the head. Then using a large blusher brush with Wella Professionals High Hair Ultra Finishing Spray, brush over the head to get rid of any loose fly aways – the finished look should be absolutely smooth.

Chanel In Paris: The Collection, Hair, Make Up And Nails

Super User — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 13:13:00 GMT

By Chloe Brinklow

Arguably the most anticipated show of the entire Fashion week program, the Chanel A/W 2011 collection shown at Paris Fashion Week, didn’t disappoint! With an authoritative voice, Karl Lagerfeld spoke to a new generation, mixing classic Chanel designs with fresh and exciting new trend pieces. And if that isn’t enough, the uber talented Peter Phillips created wearable metallic beauty that we’re already bursting to experiment with!

RESCU brings you all the gloss and goss from the runway…

The Clothes

Dark and grunge aren’t two words you’d typically associate with Chanel but the monotonous colour palette that featured tweed classic two-piece suits, mixed with stretch denim jeans, tulle skirts and trousers, certainly held a 90s grunge vibe.

Accessories included fingerless gloves, cloaks, flat booties and mid height heels, in a moody and powerful display. The trousers featured, looked uber comfortable and loose fitting, with a too-long, untailored feel we could really get used to!

The Make Up

Created by none other-than king of make up Peter Phillips, using Chanel make up, the look was metallic and glittery yet underdone, in a very good way! The eye was coated to the brow, with silver shadow and a thin line of matching eyeliner applied underneath. To add sexiness and cool, a wave of Chanel MASCARA INIMITABLE (N°10) was applied. The base and lips were kept plain and simple, with cheeks left blushless, to really allow eyes to sizzle and pop!

The Nails

Peter Phillips is famous for his nail polish creations that women collectively swoon over, season after season. We know you haven’t forgotten the jade greens , taupes and powdery blues from years past! This season it is all about mirror ball metallic and gritty graphite. A silver colour with just enough sparkle and a hint of green - at RESCU we can’t wait to get our mits (and fingertips) on this little beauty.

Chanel LE VERNIS (Graphite) N°529 will be available August from selceted stockists.

The Hair

With a deep-set side part, models took to the runway sporting low side buns. Completely relaxed, yet sophisticated! Hair escaped from the front and the style couldn’t have been more fitting for the classic grunge collection on display. We think this style is Perfect for the office, date night or dinner and drinks with the girls!

Recreate the Runway Look With RESCU...

Using the end of a fine tooth comb and the middle of your right brow as a positioning guide create a straight part from the front to back of your head. Brush into a low pony, allowing hair at front to hang by your face on the side with more hair free. Next twist pony into a bun, securing with pins that match your hair colour. Run the straightner over the front bits for a smooth and sexy finish, and spritz with a shine spray. RESCU loves: Sebastian Professional Halo Mist ($37)

Images courtesy of Chanel and Snapper Media

Paris Fashion Week: Day One Fashion And Beauty Wrap

Super User — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 13:13:00 GMT

This week the city of love transformed into the city that loves fashion, as the final location in the month long extravaganza that is Fashion Week. Saving the best to last, Paris plays host to the most luxury labels in the world; Chanel, Balenciaga and Louis Vuitton, while showcasing gorgeous, quirky and alternative labels like those we saw on day one of Paris fashion week.

RESCU brings you coverage, tips and tricks from the runway…

Dévastée

First cab off the rank, relaxed and wearable Dévastée was a day one RESCU favourite! A black and white colour palette was on display, paired with relaxed oversized knit jumpers, high waist shorts, and striped maxis. Everything was bang on trend, and best of all, suitable for the Aussie winter climate!

Hair was as relaxed as the clothing, out and channelling the boho bed hair look. Parts were worn on the side or centre of the head, depending on what suited each individual model! The only down fall was the dark gothic eye shadow, much like what Taylor Momsen sports on a daily basis – it didn’t really fit in with the laid back hair and clothes, looking, over the top and out fo place.

Damir Doma

The warrioresque collection featured some quirky creations we’re not sure if we love or hate! Leather skirts, with a long front panel and short back were interesting to say the least! Chunky leather platform shoes were more up our alley, with the jersey Kimonos a great alternative to the classic winter trench.

Black helmet style hairnets won’t be making our must-wear list this season, though we loved the dramatic, black lips. For those daring enough to try it, get the look with M.A.C Mattene Lipstick in Dense Matte Black ($35).

Rochas

An uber feminie collection, black, brown and cream garments were paired with pretty peach shadow and blush - a soft, easy to wear look, perfect for everyday. Slick hair and side parts, looked sexy and chic and we loved the slinky silk maxis, baby doll dresses and power-dresser pencil skirts in neutral, wearable shades.

RESCU recommends: If you’re not too keen to try peach on your eyes and lips, why not nail the trend on your nails? Bloom Nail Polish in Bettina I ($19.95) is the perfect shade to experiment with and goes on like a dream!

A/W Paris Fashion Week: “Farewell Alexander McQueen”

Super User — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

In a gilded, mirrored hall, with classical music playing, a sombre mood in the air, came regal, ornate and unique creations that were to be the final offerings designed and cut by Alexander McQueen before his suicide last month.

Designs looked as though they should be housed in a museum rather than worn, and due to recent events they more than likely will be showcased in this way.

The gowns were sumptuous and regal. There were duchess silk robes and blood red silks that were embroidered with delicate gold thread, screen printed with images of Madonna and further decorated with feathers, beads and gold foil. Even the bodices were bejewelled.

The corsetry and draped effect of the rich silks enhanced the hourglass silhouettes.

Whilst the Gucci Group has revealed the label will live on, it was clear that there never will be another Alexander McQueen.

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media

Day 8 of A/W Paris Fashion Week: Hermes and Miu Miu

Super User — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

Ladies who wish they had been born an English Lord of the Manor can channel one with the Hermes A/W 2010 collection.

Gentry at Hermes
Inspired by the type of clothing that an English dandy would swan around his sprawling countryside estate in, came crocodile blazers, leather trenches, little leather skirts and tweed blazer combinations, which were more James Bond than they were Bond Girl.

The sight of Kelly bags is always enough to make us shiver with excitement and this season the Kelly girl has brains to go with her beauty, carrying visible copies of ‘The Times of London’ neatly rolled in her Kelly bag.

Eccentric Miss Mui Mui
Prada’s little sister, Mui Mui, is always a little quirky, colourful and left of centre, and this collection was no different.

Mini dresses came out, made from thick woollen fabric. The texture was different and interesting and reminded us of the types of fabrics that we once cut up to create school projects.

Adding to the feel of a childhood art project were giant cartoonish flowers, large bows and gems that were attached to the necks of turtleneck jumpers. Bright tangerine and lilac overcoats added even more colour.

Ponytails were clipped onto models’ heads in colours that contrasted to their own hair again adding to the youthful, fun and eccentric feel.

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media

Day 8 of A/W Paris Fashion Week: Louis Vuitton, Elie Saab and Paul and Joe

Super User — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

With the world in the mood for awards ceremony glamour, Elie Saab responded with his own collection of pure red carpet, Oscar-worthy goddess gowns.

Red Carpet Royalty at Elie Saab
Whilst there was an African undertone with tribal African jewelry and some primitive prints, the look that stole this show was wafting, floor skimming, moody coloured chiffon.

In midnight blue, forest green and poison purple came gowns that had interesting details and in some cases carved necklines, one-shoulder structure, ruffles, gathers and billows of fabric.

There were more youthful and playful sequined mini dresses, as well as delicate cocktail dresses with black lace covering micro pleats, which created an interesting vein-like effect. Structured day dresses in grown-up plum colours were perfect for the wives of studio bosses to wear to lunch at The Ivy.

Elle-gant Lady at Louis Vuitton
And God created woman. Well women in this case, with the feminine curves of beauties such as Lara Stone, Laetitia Casta, Rosie Huntington- Whiteley, Bar Refaeli and our very own Elle Macpherson poured into 1950s, ladylike creations.

Ponytails were slicked back and swung from models’ heads and dark sunglasses covering their eyes as they made their way down the runway in pointed sling-backs that had giant bows attached, their gloved hands clutching prim, structured purses.

Cleavage overflowed from bustiers, halter neck dresses and corseted tops that were belted and led down to full, mid-calf and floor length skirts.

Coat dresses, grey boucle tops and skirts as well as happy Stepford wife-esque rose printed fabrics with deep pink, yellow and blue, filled the catwalk and there was not a pair of pants to be seen.

Whilst we would have expected to see Elle pouting from the glossy pages of a magazine in LV’s ad campaign, she instead made a return to the catwalk in floor skimming, magenta taffeta and thrilled the audience.

Swinging Sixties at Paul and Joe
We then skipped forward a decade, from the ladylike and restrictive prim 1950s woman, celebrated at LV, to the flirtatious, liberated woman of the sixties, who knows that ‘money can’t buy love’ and would rather party ‘eight days a week’.

Here she was colourfully attired in bright micro mini dresses, with crochet tights and over-the-knee boots drawing extra attention to her legs. And if she is planning on ‘dancing in the streets’ until the late hours she can keep warm in large, cozy, Studio 54-worthy cropped and long fur coats.

Hair was free flowing and centre parted and in some cases topped with a Bonnie and Clyde style beret.

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media

Day 7 of A/W Paris Fashion Week: Chanel, Valentino and Chloe

Super User — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

With the fashion pack getting towards the end of this particular fashion marathon, the day was met with mixed emotions; there was excitement to see what galactic brands Chanel and Valentino would delight us with, as well as curiosity about the direction that Chloe would take. But there was also a sense of sadness as the closing McQueen show was sure to be a poignant tribute to the designer.

Global 'Cooling' at Chanel
Forget moving mountains. Karl Lagerfeld can literally move icebergs and that is exactly what he did for this A/W 2010/11 collection. Importing an ice cap from Sweden and creating sub zero temperatures so that it would not melt was just the tip of his iceberg.

Ladies who lunch, who are planning on hopping aboard the PJ and jetting off to visit Antarctica or the Russian ice polo will be warm and chic in mid-calf furry boots, shaggy fake fur floor length coats, fury trousers in Chanel black, white and moody multi-coloured tweed.

Of course, these looks were also teamed with flirtatious micro mini-skirts, leather suits and classic tweed jackets.

The looks are enough to melt the coldest heart and even ice cap, the models discovered as they sloshed through puddles.

Very Valentino
It may be cold outside, but the Valentino lady does not feel the elements. Her chauffer driven car picks her up from her luxurious residence, where her butler has a perfect fire roaring. The car then delivers her to the front door of her equally temperature controlled destination.

This you see is why she can happily wear fragile and elegant dresses made from lace, silk, chiffon and leather whilst pedestrians wear thermals and thick layers to prevent hyperthermia.

There was plenty of romance to this delicate collection with ruffles and chiffon swirls on cocktail dresses and even pretty scalloped detail on trench coats. Vibrant Valentino red was chicly combined with wisps of nude fabric for a look that is modern yet, classic and timeless.

Uptown Girl at Chloe
Let's face it, Chloe was also a brand that only girls who lived in the Upper East Side could actually afford- but the look was always tres cool and at times even bordered on grunge.

The Chloe A/W 2010/11 collection is still effortless and cool, but there is no pretence about it. It is Uptown chic from the tops of the models' perfect bouncy, blow-dried debutant hairstyles, to the bottom of their woollen wide-legged trousers.

Denim shirts were tucked into camel leather skirts, trousers were high waisted and cosy and luxurious sweater dressers, turtlenecks and pencil skirts clung perfectly to the models' bodies. These were neatly finished off with a thin delicate belt positioned around their equally neat waists. The look was pure high quality, high luxury, and perfectly neutral.

This season, the Chloe woman sure wears the pants…

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media

Day 6 of A/W Paris Fashion Week: Stella McCartney, Emanuel Ungaro and Yves Saint Laurent

Super User — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

Day 6 of Paris Fashion Week got off to a ‘Stella’ start with a constellation of stars coming out to support Stella McCartney.

The front row was littered with rock royalty in the form of her father Paul, American royalty in the groomed form of Maria Shriver, Hollywood royalty with buff Arnold Schwarzenegger and modeling royalty in the petite form of sixties supermodel Twiggy.

Stella McCartney
Clothes were chic and wearable in a colour palette of nude, oyster, pink and chocolate.

Jackets were quilted with detachable hoods, cashmere coats in classic black, camel and grey looked luxurious and soft, and slim trousers had tailored turn ups.

For evening, satin gowns in purple and orange with train-like detailing added vibrancy, whilst one shouldered gowns and shift dresses were more conservative and embellished with lace, chiffon and sequins.

Eighties Ra Ra at Emanuel Ungaro
With no Lindsay Lohan in sight after last season’s collaborative disaster, the Ungaro A/W 2010/11 collection still referenced the 80s, although in a more subdued way.

There was plenty of black and white, floral prints, polka dots and plenty of volume in this playful and flirtatious collection. Plunging necklines, strapless mini dresses and one shouldered dresses were made from fabric that was ruched, folded and ruffled in a way that looked as if it was an intricate origami design.

Strapless playsuits and voluminous chiffon shirts and skirts had polka dotted prints, which added a further 80s feel. Whilst the collection may not have felt grown-up or couture, it was fun and lively.

Black, White and Plenty of Colour at Yves Saint Laurent
Whilst the YSL A/W 2010/11 collection had a majority of classic black and white, there were plenty of dashes of bright pink, vibrant blue and electric yellow in the form of capes, shoes and long gloves to add plenty of spice to what could have been an otherwise classic collection.

These capes were used throughout and paired with conservative pencil skirts, shirts and dresses. They were created from interesting netted fabrics and vibrantly coloured duchess satin and turned classic items into modern, interesting looks.

There were plenty of signature YSL tuxedo jackets and classic coats that were also vamped up, in some cases with shots of midnight blue fur around the collar and shooting from the seams.

Evening dresses were made of brightly coloured satins and lined with baby soft cashmere and decorated with feather chokers and extra long dangling chains that had pendants, which were inspired by images from the 70s of YSL clothing. A moving tribute indeed.

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media & Style.com

Day 5 of A/W Paris Fashion Week: Karl Lagerfeld, Celine; Givenchy and John Galliano

Super User — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

Mr. Lagerfeld sure is one busy man. Not only is he in charge of Chanel and Fendi, he also has his own eponymous label, which opened day five of Paris Fashion Week.

Black on Shiny Black at Karl Lagerfeld
Karl Lagerfeld is known for his slick black on black looks, but the clothes in this collection were so slick and shiny even for him, that is seemed as though the models had been dipped in buckets of oil before hitting the catwalk.

Jackets were tailored and futuristic and worn with vinyl and latex leggings and skirts. Even the evening beaded dresses with tight bodices were worn with these skin-tight shinny leggings.

Hair was teased, bee-hived hair and held back with further shiny black fabric that covered the Alice bands. Nails and lips were vibrantly painted red to contrast with the sea of black in the collection.

Every Woman at Celine
Designer Phoebe Philo had every woman in mind when she designed this collection of sharp, clean-lined work staples for the modern woman. The look of this well-edited collection was fresh and modern without being futuristic or extreme.

Coats were hooded and slim lined, even when double breasted and capes were chic and fuss free. Trousers were smartly cropped just above the ankle and worn with caped sleeve shirts.

The tuxedo was an inspiration throughout the collection with tails on vests, shirts and cropped jackets creating interest. Texture was also created by mixing different fabrics throughout each outfit; leather and tweed were worn together as were wool and crepe.

Flecks of metallic fabric gave a little glimmer to an otherwise neutral colour palette of black, navy, cream and olive.

Even the evening collection of lace blouses, slim, strapless dresses, tunics and pencil skirts were easy to wear and whilst minimal, remained sophisticated.

Extremes at Givenchy
The clothes in this collection will have you covered whether you are planning on swimming with the fish at the bottom of the sea, looking out over the world from the peaks of the highest mountains, or dusting priceless Faberge eggs.

Neoprene, the fabric used to create wetsuits for scuba divers, was used throughout this collection to create dresses, skirts and trousers than were moulded to the body.

Fun 'wet-suit' fabric mini-skirts had visible plastic zippers and were paired with ski jumpers that had the type of kitsch red, green and ivory knitted patterns that an eccentric aunty gives as Christmas gifts. Knits also had rhinestones for added colour and decoration.

If active wear does not appeal, fear not. There are also plenty of minxy French maid outfits complete with feather bustiers. Just make sure not to put your actual maid in these seductive ensembles when the gentleman of the house is around.

Off to Tibet at Galliano
Ever the showman, there was plenty of fur, layering and eccentricity at John Galliano's show.

Oversized parkas, layered floral scarves and harem trousers with dropped crotches and fur dangling from every corner and pocket of jackets had a very tribal feel and are perfect for designer gypsies who feel like trekking the Himalayas.

The hiking boots added to the look but we are not sure of just how practical the spiked heels are.

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media

Day 4 of A/W Paris Fashion Week: Jean Paul Gaultier, Viktor and Rolf and Loewe

Super User — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

We at RESCU love to travel- especially when we can make our way across the globe with eighty different outfits in just one sitting- without even having to leave the comfort of a fashion show…

Culture Flash at Jean Paul Gaultier
So many different cultures and countries were referenced in this collection that we could not help but wonder if Jean Paul Gaultier has done some serious travelling lately, has been bitten by a major travel bug, or is attempting to design a new outfit for the United Nations. One minute it was Morocco, then it was Turkey, Tibet, China, Mexico and Peru all juxtaposed in an interesting world class combination.

Every section of the globe seemed to be represented. Oriental chokers were paired with leather jackets. Gypsy skirts were worn with boot-scooting cowboy boots, Middle Eastern turbans and high Nordic patterned socks.

Russian military coats were worn over Empress gowns and Grecian skirts under tribal tunics.

The United Nations has suddenly got colourful!

The Factory of Plus -Sized Garments at Viktor and Rolf
There seems to be a lot of theatrics this Paris Fashion Week, so we were expecting an amusing show from Viktor and Rolf and that was exactly what we got.

Staged like a factory, the designers themselves appeared on the stage with model Kristen McMenamy who was swallowed by seventeen enormous tent-like layers of clothing. Like a Russian Doll, layers were peeled back by the designers, revealing creation upon creation.

There were fur coats, woollen trenches, taffeta jackets and crystal embellished ball gowns.

Once McMenamy was stripped down to just a corset, additional models appeared and Viktor and Rolf began stripping their layers and piling them back onto McMenamy. Clothes became supersized and shrunken with ease due to the use of clever zippers and drawstrings.

With this collection, we will never need to worry about fluctuating weight or fat days.

All About Ava at Loewe
Our day finished off with champagne bubbles, old school glamour and the type of clothing Ava Gardner would have been delighted to get her gloved hands on.

As Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra songs filled the airwaves, models appeared in well cut skirt-suits that had a distinct 40s feel, right down to the accessories like berets, structured ladylike handbags and delicately patterned stockings.

Glamorous mink panels and collars appeared on well tailored blazers, with fur even making its way onto the stiletto heels that the outfits were paired with.

Halter-neck dresses dreamily swung from the models’ bodies and were worn under cropped leather jackets. The leathers used were soft, luxurious and created in delectable colours of toffee, caramel and butter.

Wear these clothes and you won't need to sing 'My Way' to get your own way.

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media & Style.com

Day 3 of Paris Fashion Week: Lanvin and Maison Martin Margiela

Super User — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

In the theme of eccentric designs that are creative and interesting to look at, but lacked the important wearability factor, we entered the maison of Maison Martin Margiela, where clothes were even more eccentric than at Vivienne Westwood’s show.

Eccentric Maison Martin Margiela
There were backless trousers and large fur creations covering the models' heads and engulfing their bodies. Whilst these items looked heavy and odd, they would make the perfect camouflage if you find yourself coming face to face with a grizzly bear.

Double breasted charcoal coats and grey snakeskin jackets were classic and would make useful additions to any wardrobe, but we are not so sure about the sheer netting pencil skirts or space age waists that were extended so far from the hips and waistline that they appeared to defy gravity.

Rather than wearing these clothes, many of the clothes in this collection appeared to wear the models.

Drama, Texture and Strength at Lanvin
Getting back to the type of clothes that we actually wanted to wear, the day finished at Lanvin, where there was a tribal feel with the use of primitive designs, colours and shapes, as well as plenty of drama and strength.

The Spiral staircase that the models went up, rather than came down from, was pure 'Old Hollywood' glamour. As were the rich fabrics in moody colours of purple, navy, khaki and even jade.

One shouldered numbers with voluminous fabrics on the one arm, led the way to richly ruched and draped dresses. Some even had delicate crystals adorning the seams.

Feathers adorned the hems of dresses matched heavy feather earrings that had an 80s feel. Whilst dresses were feminine, the shoulders were wide and
heavily accentuated; some adorned with epaulettes and again referenced the 80s.

We looked, but it appeared that there were no signature fabric covered pearls in sight!

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media & Style.com

Day 3 of Paris Fashion Week: Roland Mouret, Dior and Vivienne Westwood

Super User — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

Day three of Paris Fashion Week was like opening up a box of Ladurée macaroons and finding an interesting delectable mix; some items were soft and sweet, some were rich, whilst others were vibrant and colourful.

Whilst there was no definitive theme linking today's range of shows, the different aspects contrasted and complemented each other and made for one interesting fashion-packed day.

Austerity and Sensuality at Roland Mouret
Carla Bruni-Sarkozy wearing that long, skintight, bra-less Roland Mouret dress earlier in the week caused even more of a stir than the A/W show itself.

Whilst there were the signature type of skin-tight dresses that the first lady favours and this label is famous for, some even with dramatic fishtails at the back, others were not as figure hugging.

There were ruffled dresses, bloused vests, sleeveless fur jackets and deep front pockets rather than a collection of only literally breath-taking, body con numbers.

Coats and vests had light hoods and will keep you warm and chic this winter. An interesting multifunctional tied skirt called a 'carre' also made its appearance. When tied around the waist, it is a mini skirt, but it can also be worn untied, around the shoulders.

Giddy Up at Dior
The troops are coming in, in full force at Dior, where John Galliano sent out models dressed in a sexy, equestrian theme.

Riding gear was turned into luxurious street wear with cropped, tweed jodhpurs combined with stiletto heeled versions of riding boots and delicate tops that were made from wisps of chiffon and looked more like lingerie. The look was finished off with high-topped equestrian riding hats and coats.

The look remained a little more 'Knight Rider' than 'Trooping the Colours' with sensuality created, thanks to sheer empire line dresses and sexy cropped leather jackets.

The Pantomime at Vivienne Westwood
Westwood herself recently made an appeal for people to limit their shopping and this is perhaps why she created a collection and show that was more theatrical than it was wearable.

As the clothes appeared, adorning models who sported even more eccentric make-up, we soon realised that they were inspired by- and better suited to a pantomime than the streets.

Many of the looks were inspired by 'Prince Charming', with blue tights, paper crowns, shaggy hats and harem trousers being all the colourful rage.

There were blanket coats, oversized rain jackets and colourful, patchwork creations that would have been perfect for a production of 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat'.

Some items managed to combine elements of fantasy and wearability, such as pink satin leggings, 'fairytale Princess' worthy gowns and more conservative tailored khaki trouser-suits.

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media & Style.com

Day 2 of A/W Paris Fashion Week: Balmain, Balenciaga and Nina Ricci

Super User — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

Day two of Paris fashion week was all about the young and flirty French Mademoiselle.

Versailles Excess at Balmain
The Balmain lady is sexy, sophisticated and has wads of cash to burn. She also has an exciting lifestyle where short, skin-tight, sassy, shimmering, sequined dresses will fit right in and look tres chic.

There was plenty of gold at Balmain; gold leather, gold sequins, gold brocade and even golden skin and golden hair cascading around the models’ shoulders.

Like previous seasons, shoulders were defined and exaggerated on structured blazers. Military jackets were paired with sprayed on leather leggings. Sleeves were long, but hemlines were short, neck-lines were plunging and there was even leopard print.

As Prince’s soundtrack filled the air “You don’t have to be rich…” we realised that if you want to get your manicured hands on any item from Balmain, a label where jeans cost in excess of 1000 pounds, you actually do need to be very rich.

Beyond Modern Art at Balenciaga
Designs were complex and interesting at Balenciaga and very artistic.

Lace and fabrics were laser cut, three dimensional and filled with graphic prints that were inspired by the photographs of Irving Penn and Cindy Sherman.

Neon brights were juxtaposed on fabrics that looked too heavy to actually wear and paired with Perspex heels.

There was also the use of softer camel hair, cashmere, silk, nylon and quilted and padded jackets that will look just as chic on the ski slopes as they would if walking on the moon.

Whilst the looks of this collection were definitely interesting and would look great on the walls of an art gallery, we are not quite sure how wearable they are.

Sexy Chic at Nina Ricci
The minute the models stepped out with their backcombed blow-dries and peek-a-boo lace bras we knew just who these clothes were perfect for; the second wives club. A group of coquettish ladies who like to dress in a sophisticated manner, but also like to show the world the minx that they are.

We were not deceived by the neutral colour palette. Belted black and ivory cashmere coats had luxurious fur sleeves. Gray satin dress coats were ruffled and belted.

Lace decorative tops were paired with slim-line cigarette pants and decorative chiffon skirts were worn with cropped, fitted black leather jackets. Cardigans with plunging necklines revealed lace bras for a little ooh la la and were worn with pencil skirts.

Nina Ricci A/W 2010/11 was exactly the type of sex appeal the French are renowned for.

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media & Style.com

Day One of Paris Fashion Week: Dries Van Noten and Rochas

Super User — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

Ciao Milan and Bonjour Paris, the city of lights. Before the shows started, we had a minute to nibble on a croissant, sip a cocktail at the most glamorous bar in town- the one at the hotel Plaza Athenee - and of course admire French First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy and the daring skintight outfit/no bra look that she had steeped out in. Then it was off to a jam packed schedule…

Military couture at Dries Van Noten (pictured above)
‘Mad Men’ has influenced the collections of designers in every city that we have been in over the last month and Dries Van Noten was no exception. There was the 50s and 60s ladylike couture feel, but this time with a twist; a military and deconstructed edge.

Hand-painted floral, full bodied knee-length silk skirts in heavy duchess silk were worn over petticoats and combined with ladylike gloves, chunky heels, leopard-print scarves and rimmed glasses, but there was still an edge.

Rather than a string of pearls, these looks were mixed with khaki military style shirts, rich metallic blazers that were ruched and gathered at the hips to give volume, silk that had layers of indigo ink brushed on, and hooded rain jackets and deconstructed trench coats that had sleeves hacked off.

The judging panel was out at the show, staged at City Hall, and from the pleased looks on editors’, buyers’ and fashionistas’ faces- it appeared that it was a success.

Delightful and delicate at Rochas
Next, it was off to Rochas for more ladylike luxury, where bouffant hair, towering heels and 50s silhouettes ruled the catwalk.

This time you can bring out your pearls, as they will compliment perfectly the cardigans, skinny belts, voluminous coats, pencil skirts, tunics, shimmering bell bottom trousers, leopard print jackets and full skirts that were on offer.

Even the colour palette of sky blue, pretty pink, gold, yellow and beige would make Betty Draper smile, clap her daintily gloved hands and wink through her horn-rimmed glasses that all look very similar to the ones that the models were sporting.

Want more fashion week coverage?
View more of our coverage, including backstage beauty, in the RESCU Events section.

We also have all the latest fashion and beauty photos in our gallery.

Click here to read Tali Shine's bio.

Image credits: Snapper Media

Sugar and spice at Mui Mui, Prada’s quirky little sister

Super User — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:13:00 GMT

SPRING/SUMMER COVERAGE: By Tali Shine
(images courtesy of Style.com)

After Elie Saab’s show, it was off to Mui Mui, Prada’s quirky little sister. It was a little confusing - we can’t tell if Miss Mui Mui of Spring 2010 is all sugar or more spice...

There were plenty of touches representing innocence, like long plated hair worn to the side, Mary Jane shoes, little girl dresses and pantsuits with sweet kitten, bird and puppy prints. The prints were interestingly repeated throughout the same outfits in grading sizes and were not dissimilar in style to the ones that were once printed on our pyjamas - that is when we were young enough to be tucked into bed and read bedtime stories about princess and castles in far-away lands.

But amongst this childhood innocence was a more sexual theme. There were also prints of naked women and many baby-doll dresses had cut out bra and bikini details, revealing bare flesh.

Interesting sequined patterns on tight nude dresses were alluring as were high waisted pant suits with collared button up that were closely fitted to the body, giving the impression of a second skin.

Perhaps this show was all about the cross road between youth and innocence and sophistication and knowledge. Perhaps it is about having the best of both worlds, or maybe it was a sign that Spring 2010 will be raining cats, dogs, birds and naked women.

Anyway for us, it was time for a break, a mini French manicure and of course a café latte as we take in all the different themes that we have seen today!

Last Day in Paris: Roland Mouret and Elie Saab

Super User — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:13:00 GMT

SPRING/SUMMER COVERAGE: By Tali Shine
(images courtesy of Style.com)

It’s a sad thought that by the time we wake up tomorrow morning, our cross-country fashion marathon will be over. No more pretending not to nibble on croissants in Paris or pasta dishes in Milan as we dissect hemlines, sleeve lengths and colours that the designers have used. No more craning our necks to see which celebrity has caused an explosion of photographers' flashbulbs, and no more running in our stilettos to beat other fashionistas to get taxis to the next show.

But fear not RESCU-devotee, as of next week we will be delivering right to your inbox our top picks of the best places to shop, pamper and rest your tired legs in each of our favourite fashionable cities. In between shows, we have also been very busy asking in-the-know locals, and doing our own research- so you will have the perfect international little pink book at your disposal.

But now, back to the final day of Paris Fashion Week and time to get on the back of the Vespa so as not to miss any shows!

Roland Mouret: (as pictured above)
Getting to RM by Roland Mouret, we breathed in and sat up as straight as possible, expecting to see form-fitting, figure-binding, structured numbers. It was after all Monsieur Mouret who gave us the Galaxy dress - which in turn launched him into galactic proportions.

Yet what we got at this show was a cute, quirky departure from the structure of the galaxy dress. Whilst there was the occasional fitted, curve-skimming pencil dress, the majority of the designs were soft, simple, less fitted and wrapped at the waist. Leggings and cardigans, one shouldered jersey jumpsuits with amazing embellishments in the form of graphic prints on leggings, giving a three dimensional effect, statement necklaces, safety pin details- the likes of which we have not seen since that Liz Hurley dress - feathered shoulders and orange, blues, olives, greys and reds that had a very Moroccan vibe. Definitely time to rock the Kasbah.

Elie Saab: (as pictured below)
Back on the Vespa and off to Elie Saab, where we patted down our windswept hair and expected to see full-on black-tie glamour. Today though continued to be full of surprises and rather than the soft, floating fantasy dresses Saab is renowned for, he instead channelled the eighties and gave us a collection of powerful, glamorous dresses that we can’t wait to get our hands on and hips into. Appropriately, the runway was painted strong and dramatic black.

Borrowing elements from the 80s style that Balenciaga revived a few seasons ago (think defined and padded shoulders, tight micro minis, crystal gem applications and exposed zips) came a collection of nude, black and raspberry body con dresses with matching cropped blazers.

The thing that set these dresses apart from the 80s inspired collections we have seen over the past few weeks was the heavy sequin and crystal embellishments in interesting designs and patterns. There were large patches of criss-crossed embellishments on some, and large panels, pockets or simply shoulders decorated on others.

For those more wafting petals, there were also a few 70s inspired retro dresses in colourful prints and patterns that channelled Studio 54 disco divas, and will look as glam in 2010 as they did in 1974.

In case you do have red carpet events to cater for, don't worry. Saab, not wanting to let his established customer base down, also exhibited a collection of floor skimming, luxuriously draped and ruched dramatic gowns in raspberry, royal blue and black that are sure to rule the red carpet and ooze plenty or sophisticated sex appeal.

Click here for RESCU’s Elie Saab gallery.

Leonard: when signature style succeeds

Super User — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:13:00 GMT

By Nicole Landerer

Fashion is fickle; styles shift, trends transform, ‘chic’ changes. In the words of Project Runway USA’s host Heidi Klum, “one minute you’re in, the next minute, you’re out”. Some design houses fold to fads, others, such as Leonard, ride the fashion waves by doing what they do best, and doing it well.

This season’s collection sings signature style – luckily, print happens to be very a la mode. From paisley patterns to floral – the models were very pretty in print.

Colour schemes ranged from earth tones to pastels – we loved the lilac. Collection highlights were the maxi dresses - their rather sexy slits added a hint of seduction to girly glamour.

Click here to view RESCU’s Leonard gallery.

Love All at Hermes

Super User — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:13:00 GMT

By Tali Shine

Hermès ladies do not perspire when they exercise - rather they glow. And really that is a lucky fact, because the collection that Jean Paul Gaultier presented for Hermès Spring 2010, inspired by French tennis ladies of the 1920s and 30s may have had a sporty vibe, but it was filled with luxurious fabrics, shapes and styles that are definitely not contusive to intense physical exertion.

Climbing over the grass lawn and making our way to the grass covered benchers to get to our seats, we sure were glad that it was heavier wedges adorning our feet and not delicate (hole-leaving, grass destroying) Choos stilettos for this final day of fashion week.

Once seated, if was hard to decide where to look first; whether to focus on the tennis match being played out in one corner (and where the occasional ball flew into the audience) or on the catwalk, where long and lean models began to appear in luxuriously draped, robed, kilted, pleated and halter necked versions of tennis dresses, all finished off with matching sweatbands - just in case.

Leathers, knits and cottons in elegant cream, navy, black and rust took the form of playsuits, mini and maxi dresses, silk neck-tied shirts that became shorts, wide-legged, tailored trousers, denim blazers, and pleated skirts, which were the perfect ensembles to wear right off of the tennis court and straight to a ladies lunch or evening charity cocktail reception.

If she does not already play tennis, then this collection may just inspire the glamorous first lady of France, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, to take lessons at the Élysée Palace. No prizes for guessing what she will be wearing as she effortlessly hits the ball to her husband.

What really had us foaming at the mouth though, was not supermodel Eva Herzigova's never-ending bronzed legs, but rather the oversized weekender versions of the iconic Hermes Birkin bag, delivered here in the softest white, caramel and nude leather and skin. Forget the old woman who lived in a shoe, we would happily agree to be a bag lady - that is if the bag was any of these Birkins…

Click here to view RESCU's Hermès gallery.

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