Spring 11: Asian Florals

Kenzo, United Bamboo, Louis Vuitton (x2), Dries Van Noten

Asian florals were a big presence at the Spring shows. Most notably, Louis Vuitton's glamorous gowns, which were of course styled flawlessly, in that signature Marc Jacobs fashion. Hair and makeup complimented the dark silky garments, creating a mood that conjured a smoke-filled secret society in Shanghai. Dries Van Noten's florals, also on silks, were light and painterly. United Bamboo's trees, blossoms and birds were more folky and felt more playful. Kenzo used archive Japanese prints, which were draped, layered and collaged with both precision and luxurious softness. For next Spring, get ready for peonies, cherry blossoms, chrysamthemums, and birds.

Spring 11: Fairy Tale

United Bamboo (x2,) Timo Wieland, Gary Graham

Fairy tale forests were invoked with United Bamboo's trees and birds. Timo Wieland's Little Red Riding hood has a twig-like landscape, and there is a darkness there despite the sky blue coat color. Gary Graham showed layered gauzy gothy outfits with a few thorny florals that conjured up an old-world gypsy feel.