Paris latest: Gowns Galore from Valentino

So when the world's greatest designers are producing beautiful evening dresses—from Calvin Klein to Galliano, Ralph Lauren to Erdem—what does Valentino, the King of that genre do? Better ones.

This was another breathtaking collection from Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli. The level of craftsmanship was astounding: floral lace motifs layered appliqués, crystalline ponchos topped mesh or geometric intarsia, a clever polka dot mesh lining under lace. There was a lot of detail, but in true Val style the dresses looked graceful and weightless.

Amidst a sea of white, sand, beige, light blue and yellow came the requisite pop of Valentino red and a final triumph that looked three-dimensional in its handiwork.

See full collection images here