Lanvin throws runway bash for Alber Elbaz decade

PARIS - Lanvin put on a spectacular Fashion Week show Friday night in Paris to mark Alber Elbaz' 10 years at the helm of the French house, giving way to a star-studded bash complete with live orchestra.

Hong Kong actress Maggie Cheung, Scotland's Tilda Swinton, or the strip artist Dita Von Teese were among the celebrities who gave a standing ovation to the Israeli couturier, one of the fashion world's most respected figures.

Lanvin - AW 2012/13 - Photo: Pixel Formula

Dressed in his trademark black suit and bow tie, Elbaz climbed on stage to sing the opening lines of the classic tune, "Que sera, sera".

"This is a song for all those I love, and who helped me make my dream come true," he told an enraptured audience.

Canapes, champagne and huge pastel-coloured cakes were passed around the room as the guests arrived earlier.

The runway show itself opened at a heady pace with bright colours and technical fabrics like diving suit neoprene for daytime.

Dresses were adorned with wide flounces that left the back bare, while a show-stopping velvet bustier dress was covered in white pleated flounces, worn with long leather gloves and bright red heels.

Touches of fur came with a black and white long-haired coat, or boa-style wraps in two tones, like pink and violet.

A whole series of little black dresses, some embroidered with crystal motifs, was followed by copper-coloured numbers, and evening gowns with sophisticated drapes and just as elaborate jewellery.