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Photo: Louis Vuitton

Paris Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2010 saw a return to feminine styles that was unparalleled by previous years’ collections or by what was presented in London or New York. Frills are everywhere, hair and make-up is glamorous and soft, and the ladylike look is definitely one try out this autumn if the trends set by fashion houses like Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Lanvin are anything to go by. The best part of the news is that there’s no need to abandon tailored pieces to follow this trend.

Taking shape

Curves and soft silhouettes are an important part of the feminine designs that involve liberal use of sheer fabrics and subtle styling, while colours are generally bold and solid with some touches of pastels and dusty shades. The shapes seen in Paris weren’t understated, however, with some full skirts, large jackets and bold statement pieces. Most importantly, softness didn’t mean a lack of structure.

Tailoring

Amid all the ruffles and frills are sharply tailored designs. It might sound like they’d be out of place, but one look at this season’s designs shows just how well sharply cut pieces offset the more flowing garments and highlight natural feminine curves. The key to getting the look is to make sure that each outfit features a bit of both – not too harsh, but not soft enough to be sloppy. Curves and frills themselves show impressive engineering: these aren’t simply flowing, but provide softness exactly where it’s needed.

Dior

Photo: Dior

The Galliano collection for Dior showed off feminine designs at their best, with boots and fitted jackets combined with dresses adorned with highly decorative, frilly details. Dresses for both day and night were somewhat transparent, and always constructed from delicate and touchable fabrics.

Louis Vuitton

Ladylike Louis Vuitton looks were some of the stars of Paris Fashion Week. Ruffles on shoulders, ruched skirts and bodices, and frilled necklines all worked to complete the feminine picture, and playful touches like oversized bows were added to the outfits. The belted look remains, allowing cinched waists to take the curvy look up a few additional points.

More is more

When perfecting the feminine look for 2010, it’s important to remember that the look might look simple, and it should look effortless, but it’s by no means plain. A contrast of textures creates a feeling of luxury, and the addition of accessories that make a statement show off the wearer’s creativity. Get the basics right, then have fun with the feminine designs and ladylike luxury that caught the attention and hearts of Paris Fashion Week audiences.

Completing the look

Photo: Stock.Xchng

Aside from the clothes, the feminine look extends to models’ hair and make-up. Make-up might not be subtle, but its colours are natural, and whether hair is straight or curly, it’s kept healthy and soft. A return to flowing, feminine dressing is on display for all to see, and it seems that there are few who can resist joining this romantic movement – after all, what’s not to love?

Tags: Fashion Week