Paris notes: Ceramic-style florals at Dries Van Noten, storybook prints at Rochas and more

The Paris spring 2011 collections opened with Dries Van Noten showing en plein air alongside the Seine with the gentle breeze giving life to his orchid-print chiffons and long white shirts. Two inspirations were cited: Chinese ceramics and Belgian painter Jef Verheyen. Fabulous tuxes, sheer ponchos and holographic bombers here, too.

Florals also sprouted at Rochas, along with pastel storybook prints. There was a mood in Milan that was reminiscent of the ’70s by way of the ’40s, and that feeling continues here. Think long, narrow-waisted dresses and full skirts, even an Hermès-y scarf print cardigan or two.

Gareth Pugh’s angular cuts were shown in a video, prompting Suzy Menkes to question whether fashion shows are necessary. What…and miss all the fun of scrounging for show tickets, lining up in the rain, and trudging through the Metro in YSL heels?

See a gallery of looks from Dries Van Noten and Rochas»

Read our full coverage of the Spring 2011 collections»

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