So Saab, So Good

I was thrilled to be asked to attend the IFTA's (Irish Film And Television Awards) as a guest of MAC. So the hunt is on for a great black tie dress. On a non-black tie budget I must admit, but I've turned my attentions to the couture shows for inspiration. I look forward to these so much each season; the sheer creativity, the level of detail, the feeling of abandon for the designers who can at last indulge their inner visions, not too hampered by strict budgets. Couture is about accessing the highest expression of their talents.....expect luxurious fabrics, expensive detailing, hours upon hours of work by cutters, embroiderers and beaders. No, none of us can buy them, but we can dream, we can become inspired, and we can wait for the themes to filter down to us mere mortals on the high street!

I have adored Lebanese designer Elie Saab since he launched himself on the couture scene by dressing Halle Berry for the Oscars ten years ago. He can be extremely opulent and at times I find him too much for my generally minimalist taste, but I like this season a lot...

The colour palette of nudes, red, black and soft silvers really appeal to me and I love the above dress for it's demure shape paired with beautiful sparkle.

I think this draping is superb. It takes a master to get it right...

What a cute swing dress in amazing fabric. Wouldn't this make a fantastic wedding dress for a more low-key bride?

I adore this shot. Black against porcelain skin is one of my very favourite things. I also love the soft makeup and slightly messy buns in the hair. The prefect counterpoint to the detailed dresses.

Bring back boleros! How lovely is this...

A lot more lace than I could normally handle, but it's working for me today!

Elie, I salute you. You know how to dress a woman.

(images via style.com )