Paris haute couture: fairytale shimmer at Elie Saab

The Lebanese designer presented his Spring-Summer 2015 haute couture collection at the Théâtre National de Chaillot in Paris. Living up to his reputation, Elie Saab once again presented a series of stunning pieces that would be right at home in the most enchanting of fairy tales.

Enchanted fantasy and nature have emerged as two recurring themes in the Spring-Summer 2015 haute couture collections, and the latest Elie Saab line is no exception to the trend. To be fair, the label -- with its often delicate and dreamy designs -- has long been associated with a certain sense of fairytale wonder.

But the brand's latest show in Paris took things to a new level. Models walked an enchanted forest of a runway, lined with trees and bushes and surrounded by darkness. 

Extremely feminine as always, the silhouettes are elongated, and the fabrics are lightweight and flowing. Waists are emphasized by the tailoring, an effect often underscored with thin belts in nearly the same shade as the garments underneath.

With the exception of the shimmery black looks, the colors are soft and include ivory, eggshell, powder pink, blue grey and grey green. The dresses have just enough shimmer, avoiding retro glitter and remaining extremely refined.

Beads, sequins and feathers adorn the looks presented, underscoring the enchanted woodland theme. Of course, the designer once again revealed his affinity for lace, which is found throughout the collection, and for embroidery, most often seen in floral motifs.

The Elie Saab wedding gowns often leave a strong impression at haute couture fashion week. This time, the dress is not white or ivory but dyed in a range of different colors, all of which are understated, soft and natural. A true showstopper, the dress shimmers from the shoulders to the end of the train, as if it were adorned with a multitude of miniature lightbulbs. The waist is accentuated through a contrast with the hips, which are widened with bustles. It's a dress truly fit for a princess.