Breakfast tea, coffee, macaroons and treats were served in the Ladureé garden by Gilles Mendel with a side of Hollywood glamour. The collection, which showcased the designer’s expert execution of fur craftsmanship, paced itself perfectly with the upcoming trends and today’s elegant woman.
Gilles Mendel, adroitly pieced together patchwork coats that resulted in a lush effect. Less expert hands often turn out this type of design looking like incorrect puzzle pieces forced together. Coats were also shown with a corduroy effect and in another instance Mandel constructed the skins to look like tapestries. Our favorite piece was a heather grey, short haired mink coat that hit just above the ankle. (Seen on the model above. More pictures from the show are in the jump.)
Gowns and dressed-up pant separates played a worthy supporting roll. Mendel says he was inspired by the glamour of Katharine Hepburn and Louise Brooks. We loved how many pieces played well for day. After all, not all occasions are scheduled after dark and often times, wearing pants feels a lot more modern and chic.
The autumnal color palate played nicely into the winter collection with the rich crimsons, burnt oranges, dusty blues and elegant purples that were bright enough not to seem dismal and forbidding. We just know the two evening gowns made of tulle with layers of plates will be seen on the red carpet.
Overall, this collection felt modern and luxurious. It was wearable and elegant. We consider that a huge success, especially in the fur segment of the fashion industry that’s has been caught in a decade-long downward spiral.