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The artful beauty of Balenciaga was unmistakable for Spring 2012. It was in the shapes, volume, proportions and color-blocking. Exaggerated shoulders were a central theme in this collection, and were visible in the dresses and jackets. Fall-like colors took their turn down the runway, and there were no pastels in sight; think metallics, rust and navy. Some of the dresses were reminiscent of the 1950′s because of the fullness and lengths, but that’s where the comparison ends. These looks were current, and had an eye towards the future.

Images via NYMag

Carven was every stylish girl’s dream for Spring 2012. There was something deceptively simple about this gorgeous collection. The pieces appeared so easy and uncomplicated, and that was the essence of their beauty. Graphic prints played well with florals and stripes. Those vivid colors were beyond perfection. The collection was lady-like without being stuffy, a difficult task.

Mugler was a story of beautiful shapes and strategic cut-outs for Spring 2012. The colors were mostly earthtones with the occasional print coming down the runway. Sequin looks shared the catwalk with matte outfits to add accent to the pieces. These looks were skin revealing, but not overly so. They were sexy, yet reserved.

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Gareth Pugh showcased a futuristic look at fashion for Spring 2012. The collection was a lesson in architecture, structure was at its centerpiece. A neutral color palette was embolden by geometric shapes and stripes. These looks were dramatic and strong, yet they were contoured to the body and dare I say, sexy. I’ve seen the future in black and white and it is fierce.

Images via NYMag

Dries Van Noten gave the silhouette the lead for Spring 2012. The collection boasted loose fitting pieces in black and white, and bright accent colors. This designer played with various shapes that resulted in design success, and the prints were equally noteworthy. There was an uncontrived elegance to those pieces that resulted in pure sophistication.

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Guy Laroche was strong and feminine for Spring 2012. The designer combined leather and chiffon to bring us a pretty collection with an edge. Some looks were fitted to the body with gorgeous side ruffles and an asymmetrical neckline. There was a sporty element to the pieces an alluring undertone. Those prints were modern, with an inspired touch.

Louis Vuitton brought an opulent military look to the runway in Paris for Fall 2011.  The outerwear and accessories took the lead.  Coats and jackets took on the same stature as the iconic bags.  They had a military inspiration, evident in the silhouette and the button details.  Each garment was accessorized with military caps and boots to complete the look.  The boots came in mouth-watering colors like apple red and emerald green.  Leather, plaid, sequins and fur formed an extravagant collection.  Marc Jacobs continues to move this fashion house forward each season; this was all the luxury one would expect from Vuitton, and more. 

Miu Miu was a tribute to the 1940′s for Fall 2011.  The story was conveyed in the silhouette, the exaggerated shoulders and angular neckline details.   A color palette of black, blue, mustard and cream was a little subdued, and it maintained the retro vibe.  This collection was all about shapes, the volume was in the sleeves and the bodice.   Some looks were cinched in at the waist to emphasize the coveted hourglass figure of that time period.  Hemlines fell right at the knee, a modest and respectable length during the 1940′s and equally chic today.

Elie Saab delivered red carpet elegance onto the runway for Fall 2011.  The dresses were adorned in beautiful beadwork giving them a lustrous shine.  Flowing chiffon added ethereal beauty to this catwalk; the draping was noteworthy on both the jersey and chiffon.  Luxurious fur and leather jackets were paired with both day and evening wear.  A color palette of black, red, eggplant and taupe was lavish enough to match the gorgeous designs.  The print was a canvas of fall colors – mustard, olive green, eggplant and rust.  Elie Saab was timeless and classic for the season.