Still dreaming about those magnificent hand-sewn gowns from Chanel, Dior, Valentino, and countless more seen at this year’s Fall Haute Couture shows
Though most of us will never have the opportunity to partake in such fashion fantasy, there are many equally stunning ready-to-wear options that can easily pass for couture. Here are our favorite close-to-couture dresses to wear now.
While Zuhair Murad’s Fall 2012 Couture collection was filled with encrusted stones, and bold crystals, a few non-embellished creations stood out mainly for their seductive prints and fluid silhouettes. To get that look now, try on this sultry and elegantRachel Zoe dress that is patterned with a painted abstract print. A draped scarf detail refines the scoop neck, while the skirt is slit to the thigh in the middle with artful pleats, allowing for sensual movement. Wear this fabulous gown to a summer wedding or a fall gala, but make sure to keep accessories minimal as the gown’s print is a loud enough statement on its own.
Rachel Zoe Natasha Scarf Collar Gown $695
Giving Valentino a Run for its Money
If you are one of the many who became instantly enamored with Valentino‘s darker and more mysterious designs for its Fall 2012 Haute Couture collection, look no further than this gorgeous Temperley London creation. This statuesque lace gown trimmed with scalloped eyelash edges lends elegant movement to the silhouette, while the feminine bow accents the removable crepe belt. The design’s covered silhouette, nude slip, and peekaboo hole at the back which buttons at the nape of the neck has a Victorian feel that was present at the Valentino show. This exquisite dress holds its own and is definitely worth its investment price tag.
Temperley London Amoret Lace Maxi Dress $2520
The Iconic Dior
One of Couture Week’s most lauded and anticipated collections was, without a doubt, Raf Simons‘ debut for Christian Dior. If you are looking for a taste of that Old Hollywood glamour, which Simons showcased through his structured and fitted frocks, check out this siren-worthy strapless gown fromZac Posen. Done in a poppy red, similar to the hue used at the Dior show, this silk-taffeta gown features contoured raw-edged chiffon along the sweetheart neckline, sides, and waist. An elegant train with a structured hem adds further glamour and drama to this gorgeous creation.
Zac Posen Strapless Gown $5490
