Elie Saab Haute Couture Autumn-Winter 2016-2017

Energy, hope, magnetism, and an intoxicating skyline - its impressions are intimate and iconic at once.

New York perspectives inspire the fresh yet timeless feel of the Haute Couture Autumn-Winter 2016/2017 collection. Alluring and accentuated femininity reveal the influence of mid-century silhouettes, from an era when European style fused with the city's melting pot and its fast-paced essence and edge.

Draping and luxurious details of embroidery, plumage and fur suggest a gala of festive opulence, signed by exceptional savoir-faire. They evoke moments in a city's rhythm when the sky lights up with energy and the streets with elegance, as evening begins to descend.

Contrasts of nature and industry, skyscraper heights and human streets, appear throughout the collection. Architectural structures are embroidered, beaded and printed upon gentle yet generous forms whilst birds alight across the collection - uplifting nature's presence in the city, a sense of freedom, and an invitation to dream.

Silhouettes are striking - powerful and assuming. Rounded shoulders descend along slim bodices to skim body contours or lead to expressive, voluminous skirts while separates speak to a more urban ambition.

A color palette of rose, plum, beige, and jasmine contrast shades of blue, cobalt and black to paint the city landscape against sky.

Elaborately wrought jewelled necklaces, belts, bracelets and brooches add drama and emotion. Bags, clutches and shoes in precious skins are adorned with bird motifs embroidered in metal, organza and lambskin.

Viewed from outside toward the city skyline, or from within looking up to the dramatic heights and bright lights, as well as the infinite human perspectives inside, each angle speaks of positive modernism in a hymn to Old New York.