Couture was still alive and well in Paris this season and its triumphant display was no more visible than at the Chanel Couture Spring 2009 show. 

The show had an overwhelming feel of a marriage, not only because of the several eggshell gowns that will undoubtedly be making their way down the wedding aisles of heiresses, but most of all because of the union between the manifold opposing elements in the collection.  The dichotomy between the geometric simplicity and intricate fabric detailing came together with the innocence portrayed by the white flowery patterns offset by the sheer organza to produce a collection that was at once modern and classic, and of course overwhelmingly beautiful.

There was indeed a sense of almost virginal purity in the clothes that came mostly in shades of white with tiered fabrics and frilly lace detailing.  The towering flowered headpieces added a sense of whimsy and ephemerality to the mix.