The Judges Awards

08.3 Lanvin
by Alber Elbaz,
A/W 09

What becomes a woman and a woman's credit balance in times of austerity? Alber Elbaz came up with a deceptively simple formula that in equal measures evoked classic Parisian chic and a modern task-tackling kit that really did look as though it could pass through the boardroom to the restaurant and onwards towards the bedroom door. The basis was the little black dress, with a waisted silhouette and detail on the shoulders. It came draped, knotted or one-sleeved, but, whatever the effect, the emphasis was on individuality. This was also a season of skirt suits, and Elbaz's came with a slender skirt and a draped, cross-over jacket with a peplum hemline – also delivered in rich brocade and devoré for evening. All that was required by way of extras was a skinny belt, heeled pumps and elbow-length gloves.

Creative director: Alber Elbaz
Joined brand: 2001
Key features: The little black dress, with a waisted silhouette; skirt suits with a slender skirt and a cross-over jacket; skinny belts, heeled pumps and elbow-length gloves

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