Christian Lacroix's Fall 2008 Couture show was a tremendous sensory experience, especially with the dramatic dark fashions set against the brilliant plum-colored catwalk.
The collection was dominated by blacks, and a lot of lace. Occasionally a hint of colour was thrown into the mix, such as pair of sapphire blue gloves and patterned tights in marble-like textures.
For the most part, the models looked like gothic brides, each outfit more worthy of a sexy Halloween costume prize than the next.
Key pieces that stood out include small black veils and elegant lace little hats that spread from the corner of the model's heads like spider webs.
Pairing smoky, dark eyes with skin as pale as LaCroix's models is a risk. Too often this look can cause women to look morbid, yet in this show, the makeup was done in such a way that it made eyes pop, without any hint of unhealthiness.
Gothic Beautiful Couture
Christian Lacroix Fall 2008
Trend Themes
1. Dark Couture Fashion - Opportunity to explore incorporating gothic elements and dramatic aesthetics in fashion designs.
2. Lace and Texture - Opportunity to experiment with the use of lace and marble-like textures in fashion creations.
3. Pale and Dramatic Makeup - Opportunity to design makeup looks that enhance the features and create a striking contrast with pale skin.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Design - The fashion industry can incorporate gothic elements and experiment with lace and marble-like textures.
2. Beauty and Cosmetics - The beauty industry can explore innovative makeup techniques to achieve striking contrasts on pale skin.
3. Costume Design - The costume industry can take inspiration from gothic brides and create unique and attractive Halloween costume designs.