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WHEN THE GOING GETS 'HAUTE'

Givenchy's Spring/Summer 2004 Haute Couture collection for women spelt sheer class and elegance

Attention to detail and exceptional quality epitomise Givenchy's Spring/Summer 2004 Haute Couture collection for women that was launched in Dubai on Friday evening. Dubai Fashion 2004 is being held under the patronage of Shaikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, the wife of General Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defence, as part of the DSF 2004 and brings world-class collections from Ungaro, Givenchy, Lacroix and Dior to the city for the first time.

The philosophy behind Givenchy's new range is based on subtle individuality and total femininity that takes care of all the fashion needs of the modern woman. From quintessentially classic suits in cream, beige and black to utterly desirable evening dresses in pastel shades as well as black - the new collection marries modernity with nostalgia.

Founded by Hubert de Givenchy in 1952, the French design house quickly established itself as the ultimate choice in luxury wear and dressed some of the most stylish women in the world including famously chic Audrey Hepburn.

The magic of haute couture was for all to see at the Rashid Auditorium at Dubai International Convention Centre on February 6. A shapely silhouette is the best way of emphasising womanliness and it's time to get to grips with all things lean and long. The short skirts and jackets were all very structured and embraced the body tightly. The skirts did not fall at the mid-calf, but skimmed the knee enticingly. The jackets were simple and clinged at the waist, their hem falling on the hip, not inelegantly below the bottom. The trousers seemed straighter. Miniskirts with slits, worn with innocent tops, looked 'Oh so stylish'.

The many variations of the evening dress were absolutely delightful. For a classic evening look, black was presented in all its glory - the one colour that always flatters, never fades. Vivacious and feminine, the gowns were a delicious mixture of curves and flounces in absolutely gorgeous fabrics. At its most dramatic, the dress was very, very feminine.

This was followed by a 'sweeter than sweet' marshmallow-coloured collection of evening dresses. Soft tones of cream and caramel, cool blues, tropical lemons, lashings of pink, were all sublimely cut and perfectly proportioned and fitted. Net, chiffon, lace, satin and silk were the main fabrics used and went well with the flow of things. Beading and embroidery details were simply superb. Intricate stitches with dustings of sequins and crystals completed the sparkling magic. The show was concluded with a majestic bridal dress that was certainly the ultimate in luxury and looked fresh and innocent. This was also the last chance for people to see Julien Macdonald's latest designs since he has quit the company.

Proceeds from the show will go towards supporting two Dubai-based charities - the Dubai Autism Centre and Dubai Handicapped Centre.