Paris Haute Couture Week SS16 Day 1 & 2 / Atelier Versace, Schiaparelli, Dior & Giambattista Valli

ATLELIER VERSACE

Donatella Versace produced an up-beat and energetic show to kick-off haute couture week on Sunday evening with the models, including Joan Smalls and Rosie Huntington-Whitely, showing off sporting looks. Calling it 'athletic couture', Donatella created the perfect balance between sporty and sophisticated with bright, white suits with electric neon accents. In addition to neon, other sporting details included roping and hi-vis lacing. Although the outfits looked as if they'd been easily thrown together, it was one of Versace's most complex collections with some dress panels taking up to a month to complete.

SCHIAPARELLI

Elsa Schiaparelli once said 'Eating is not merely a material pleasure. Eating well gives a spectacular joy of life and contributes immensely to goodwill and happy companionship. It is of great importance to the morale.' It's clear that this is where Bertrand Guyon's inspiration for the new haute couture collection comes from. 

With a backdrop of china plates, gowns featured unique patterns and designs consisting of citrus fruits, three-course meals, root vegetables and porcelain cups. Amongst these unique pieces, there was also simpler and modern garments, such as the chic black gown.

With stylish stars such as Kate Bosworth, Carla Bruni and Olivia Palermo gracing the front row, the Schiaparelli show was definitely worth a second look.

CHRISTIAN DIOR

In Dior's first show since Creative Director Raf Simons left the label, it was the very capable in-house team that had responsibility for what came down the catwalk. The collection was focused on the modern woman, and how she wears garments in a new and interesting way. The overall feel was contemporary and relaxed, with off the shoulder dresses, swishy skirts and oversized jackets. 

However, not even the beautiful collection to take away from Dior's issues. With the audience gossiping over which talent will take lead of the couture house, and names such as Sarah Burton being mentioned, an announcement is expected soon.

GIAMBATTISTA VALLI

Although a relatively newcomer to Haute Couture Week, with the first collection in July 2011, Giambattista Valli is always one to watch. Valli said he was inspired by the gardens of Paris, which is clear when looking at the collection - embroidered flowers with plenty of sequins or the alternative of delicate gathered chiffon working it's way up the dresses.

Reminding the audience of the bright pink gown that Rihanna wore to the Grammy's, the collection also showcased Valli's signature look - beautiful (and big!) tulle gowns.

With the Oscars just around the corner, it won't be a surprise to see the stars walking down the red carpet in a Giambattista Valli gown.