51�Թ�

A calf-length silk shantung skirt with mirrored embroidery sparkled in the evening light.

Constructed in cream silk shantung, the veste was sculpted to fit snugly above a narrow waist, then flare into a scalloped basque, which was meticulously padded, stiffened and weighted to accentuate the hipline.

There’s luxury in the materials — shantung silk curtains, travertine floors — but the true appeal rests in the perfect proportions.

The designer said he had looked to the label’s Spanish founder, Cristobal Balenciaga, for inspiration, showing egg-shaped silhouettes, a draped polka dot dress in chiffon and a shantung coat embroidered with faux fur.

Guest-meets-Rita-Hayworth-by-way-of-the-fruit-bowl vision, in iridescent taffeta, plush velvet, silk shantung and Swarovski crystal, with balloon sleeves, blossoming “strawberry” skirts and football shoulders — all in shades of orange, lemon, grape and cherry.