Armani Privé Fall 2009 Couture

Is John Galliano's reoccurring trip into the Christian Dior archive leaving you craving for something more? Do Alexis Mabille's magically weightless linens have you pondering thoughts of how bad global warming seems to be? Well behold the 55 look solution to all (or most) of your problems. Bridging the gap between what today's woman wants to wear and the timeless classics that we all know and love, this season Giorgio Aramani revamps his usuals.

Drawing inspiration from black & white movies, much like Miuccia Prada did in her recent men's collection, past meets present with the return of the oversized bows of his Fall 08 Couture show. While Haute Couture remains as a field for some designers to play around with more extensive ensembles not featured in their ready-to-wear, the signature Armani look of blazer and pantsuit can be spotted once more. Yet maintaining exclusivity by presenting the sometimes boring and repetitive combo in lush and luxurious velvets.

Topping off the seemingly sensual looks with darkened black bobs, almost similar to the one seen on Charlize Theron in Aeon Flux, larger than life jewelry, and lust worthy fingerless gloves - it's clear that this is not your grandmother's Haute Couture. But that of a woman that lives to light a room.

The countless rounded shoulders and blue embellished animal style dress shown on Maryna Linchuk may have you screaming Balmain, but Christophe Decarnin could only dream of creating such innovative yet timeless designs, without making you look back later in life regretting the trends that float about today. Living in the moment, but planning ahead for the future.