#MelangeCouture: Atelièr Versace
Ever since the past 3 collections, Versace is fully embracing a full blown renaissance, swapping glitzy in your face uber-sexy with the underlying spirit of the Versace woman: powerful, independent, versatile (although no one does sexy like Donatella). While slightly in the shadows of last season’s ready to wear spectacle, Atelièr Versace presented a strong collection which could be considered an anti-thesis to precious couture, where the glamour goddess (we have admired for over 30 years) has descended to mortal level (apart from a few knock out gowns - why change your trademark).
Instead of delicate and dainty, typical with the art of couture, Versace emphasised practically and added a masculine edge to luscious frocks. The first few looks foreshadowed the main hurrah of curvaceous draping, perfected in elegant outerwear. This fluidity can be noted with Karen Elson who stepped out wearing a powder pink cashmere coat lined with gleaming mint duchesse satin, where the lapels shrugged off the shoulder revealing a wine red bustier, matching plump vampy lips. Together synched at the waist, it was polished but full of bounce and movement - the satin continuing to dance to the bright lights throughout the collection.
It was fresh to see a lack of sparkle and shine, although have no fear - this was emphasised in the latter part of the collection, along with organic sculptured waves reminding me of patterns in the sand or something Ariel from the Little Mermaid would wear! (I can’t help it, I’m a Disney kid). The mini dresses are sure to be seen on the red carpet worn by up and coming starlets, while look 20 is worthy of any Oscar winning actress in that mesmerising sky blue and sharp red - GAH! The heart melts…
Speaking of red however, something felt slightly off with Bella Hadid’s red floor grazing gown - the contrasting silks revolted against synergy like too many voices shouting and you don't know what to concentrate on.
This collection was all about the alluring woman on the move - no time for goggly-eyed flirtation - and a successful chapter in the evolution of modern couture.
