The Fashion Spot

Did the Karl Lagerfeld-designed Fall/Winter 2009 Chanel collection top the designer's Spring/Summer all-white collection for the house?  Probably not - that collection with its incredible paper head pieces was one for the books, and arguably the most show-stopping of the couture shows last season.

That said, Lagerfeld presented some gorgeous dresses - both full length as well as minis (included a tiered, ruffle-accented white mini wedding dress with a jaw dropping cascade of ruffles running down the back), while the more casual daytime looks were paired with black lace tights and heeled booties which helped give the looks a mix of young and old.  Yes, even Chanel's hosiery is utterly covetable.

Lagerfeld always excels when he works with black and white, but it was great to see the master throw some color into the mix. A gray daytime dress with wide pockets and red accents woven through a floor length black dress were particularly show-stopping.

I was most impressed, however, by the collection's vivid embroidery.  Who knew that so much ornamentation could look so incredibly chic and modern? Also, the draping details on the backs of some of the dresses gave them an almost goddess-like feel, while others had touches of Indian saris.

The collection did a wonderful job at playing with proportions.  Some dresses were hyper body conscious on the top and then appeared loosely tied at the waist, creating a bohemian, sleek, and feminine look.

Lagerfeld is one of the few designers that can always be counted on for an impressive collection, and this couture season was no different.  No wonder that, according to Cathy Horyn, Alain Wertheimer, whose family owns Chanel, said he would sell the house when the designer leaves.