Paris Fashion Week AW12: Carven

Guillaume Henry presented us with a stunning array of colours and prints at the Carven show, creating an excited atmosphere with his typically Parisian and very playful collection for Autumn/Winter. It was clear that Henry took inspiration from historic periods but his fabrics and tailoring techniques struck up a contemporary balance. The pieces came in a variety of shades, with bright stain-glass hues next to more muted colours. Cobalt blues, blood reds, warm oranges and mustard yellows excited the khaki and navy undercurrents. Carven gave us shapely silhouettes that embraced the feminine form but in a light and playful way rather than seductively tight. Necklines were high with collars reaching the top of the neck; instead, subtle slits in the fabric gave a cheeky, womanly touch. However, most notable of all were the laser-cut patterns and paisley and brocade prints. These worked so well because the fabrics were sumptuous with luxurious silks and velvets, and the colour scheme so majestic. It gave the collection an ecclesiastical theme and made the runway glow, as well as showing off the craftsmanship of the designer. The pieces were couture inspired but wearable, meaning anyone from a modern girl to a classic beauty would look radiant in the designs.

Images courtesy of Carven