Fall 2011 Paris Fashion Week: Lanvin 2011-03-06 13:10:12

A big willow tree stood at the beginning of the Lanvin runway, a sign that Alber Elbaz was all about roots. When it comes to Lanvin that means sharp tailoring and clothes that celebrate a woman's love for femininity and fun. Elbaz delivered both in a show that began soberly and ended on a ripe, color-filled note. First, the tailoring. Models emerged in carefully oversized, boxy wool coats and capes, and wide-brimmed pilgrims' hats with menswear loafers and prim bags. Then the silhouette softened, into graceful silk one-shoulder dresses and gowns. Elbaz played with silhouettes, moving from boxy minimalism to figure-hugging curves, sometimes combining them, and releasing looks with volume and structure. Finally, it became party time, and we got a fruity roll of classic Lanvin dresses in yellow, pink, red, burgundy, with that precise drape that makes Elbaz's designs so covetable.

• Trends: Draping, minimalism, boxy silhouettes, '70s.
• Colors: Yellow, black, navy, red, fuchsia, burgundy, peach, mauve, tan.
• Key Looks: The bright and fruity cocktail dresses at the end. .
• Accessories: Amazing deco statement necklaces, pilgrim hats, loafers.
• Who Would Wear It: Ultra chic girls who love to indulge their flirty side at night.