With the Spring 2017 haute couture shows officially drawing to a close yesterday in the City of Light, the Paris catwalks were alight with extravagant creations. Keeping true to his sartorial reputation, Lebanese-born designer Zuhair Murad unveiled a collection of intricate embellished looks. Murad drew influences from the Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival, which led to pyrotechnics inspired pieces. Sheer black blouses were emblazoned with bursts of silver sparkle and puffed sleeves, while dramatic floor-length satin coats were paired with matching skinny trousers.

At Chanel, creative director Karl Lagerfeld turned to classic couture, drawing cues from the fashion house’s timeless elegance. This could be evidenced by the Chanel tweed skirt suit, which was revealed in soft pastel hues. A ladylike scheme ruled the collection, with waist-cinching belted jackets, creamy shades, voluminous feathery hems and ruched frocks. For a grand finale, rising model Lily Rose-Depp stepped out in a pastel pink creation with puffed sleeves and layers of tiered ruffles.

Designer Pierpaolo Piccioli was inspired by the beauty of dreams and ancient Greek myths at Valentino, where floaty fabrics made their splash. Paying tribute to Piccioli’s theme, models strut the catwalk in pleated ivory dresses, flowing trousers and sheer, shimmering frocks. From iridescent sparkle to milky soft green hues, an ethereal colour palette was a key look. For a finishing touch, the odd touch of magenta or bright red illuminated the dainty, fairytale collection.

At Dior, creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri was captivated by a garden-like theme, which featured models marching on a grassy catwalk. From demure, long black skirts to airy ivory strapless dresses, basic black and white made a stark, contrasting appearance. Meanwhile, colourful floral motifs, voluminous translucent hems and springlike shades of peach and lemon yellow also made a splash.

At Elie Saab, satiny fabrics and bejewelled accents offered a sumptuous, feminine couture collection. Off-shoulder necklines and daring thigh-high slits offered a hint of sex appeal, while pale gold sheer skirts were adorned with twinkling blue stones. Rich navy blues, cropped trousers and illusion necklines also enjoyed a moment in the spotlight.

Zuhair Murad

Major Looks: Fireworks theme, embellishment, dramatic floor-length hems, defined waistlines 

Chanel

Major Looks: Ladylike elegance, soft pinks, extreme ruffles, tiers

Valentino

Major Looks: Dreamlike and mythical theme, airy sheer fabrics, muted shades 

Dior

Major Looks: Delicate garden theme, feminine frocks, voluminous long hems 

Elie Saab

Major Looks: Satin textures, rich navy blue shades, gold bejewelled accents, luxurious finishes