Front Row at Paris Fashion Week

Luxury concierge and guest blogger Didier Paul reports live from Paris fashion week. Translated by Tory Hoen, HiP Correspondent.

Paris fashion week has begun! Goodbye New York, ciao Milan, and bonjour Paris. Since Wednesday, the French capital has become a living preview of what will be in style next spring. And according to the specialists, 2010 looks like it will be a good year for shopping. Despite the current “crise”, Paris is resisting austerity and attempting (with more than 95 shows in less than 9 days) to maintain its place as the global leader in fashion.

The week started out strong with the Balmain show—which was well-received by every fashionista on the planet—with this season’s long-and-lean military-chic look. The American singer and fashion victim Rihanna, invited guest of honor, would have loved every look in the show.

Balenciaga, with a collection that was very techno-couture, remains the show-to-see among the French VIP: CatherineDeneuve, Jeanne Balibar, Lily Cole, and Amira Casar flocked to see the presentation of Nicolas Ghesquières, the unrivaled darling of fashion editors.

Dior (the bulldozer) pursued the theme of the ‘40s film noir heroine—very glamorous and chic. We know in advance that the trench by Galliano will be the “must have item” for next season.

But for now, it is Rochas that wins the elegance award. Inspired by the novel The Lover by Marguerite Duras, the line featured a range of yellow, orange, blue, saffron, and lingerie as light as it is alluring. We love the new Rochas.

Balmai

Balenciaga

Didier is a blogger and luxury concierge based in Paris. To read more about his concierge service, click here. To visit his blog, click here. All photos courtesy of Paris Est Une Fete.

Translated by Tory Hoen for the HiP Paris Blog. Looking for a fabulous vacation rental in Paris, Provence, or Tuscany? Check out Haven in Paris.