2009 Fall Paris Fashion Week: Balenciaga

Nicolas Ghesquière may have delivered some silky, shouldery Dynasty-esque dresses in his Fall collection, but the '80s references stop there. Plus, I kinda love the dresses . . . Always with a smidge of sci-fi, this is possibly the most wearable Balenciaga collection yet. But it still manages to be distinct. Some looks are bedroom inspired, with draped satin skirts and pants. Others are lush — black velvet suits and jackets with sculptured curves and bows. Prints range from Monet-like artsy to marbleized. Bonus extras include lace bra bandeaus, chunky gold cuffs, and colored tie shoes.

For more from the brilliant house of Balenciaga, read more.