Pale and perfect, ladylike but not at all uptight, Donna Karan was in beautiful form for AW11.
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"This is a call to power for women," she explained afterwards, of a collection that managed to make everyday wardrobe staples - the pencil skirt, the soft blouse, the knee-length dress, the belted coat - look modern and new, executed in ultra-luxe fabrics and offered in a palette of winter whites. Titled 'Pearls Of Wisdom', the show was the work of a designer in absolute control, exercising restraint while indulging her vision. The result was grown up but also sexy: see Karlie Kloss in a slim double-knit jersey dress for absolute proof of that. See also the finale section, a red carpet all of its own - floor length chiffon gowns destined for next month's Oscars for sure. There were also playful touches, however - furry trim on sleeves and gloves, a slash of silver on eyelids, ribbed woollen tights worn with the very proper pumps.
