When fashion meets opera in a grand setting like the Paris Opera house, the result is bound to be spectacular. Such was the case when French designer Stephane Rolland showcased his latest collection of haute couture, a vivid tribute to the legendary opera singer Maria Callas.
With the haunting voice of Callas filling the grand opera house, models in magnificent floor-sweeping gowns ascended the majestic marble staircase. The audience observed from the balcony above, entranced by the theatre of fashion unfolding beneath them.
Rolland’s creations played on the theme of symmetry. A striking lineup featured off one-shoulder gowns and skirts designed with one side slit. Bare backs counterbalanced the extensive trains of the gowns, while another notable piece was a dress slashed across the middle, revealing the model’s midriff, a daring statement in the realm of haute couture.
Adding to the spectacle were the adornments. Cuff necklaces, sculptural earrings, and metallic body ornaments featured heavily. Particularly eye-catching was a gold, coral-like piece with tentacles stretching out from an upturned collar, embodying Rolland’s propensity for the extravagant.
Recognized for his flamboyant designs, Rolland has previously created iconic pieces such as the white-winged gown worn by Celine Dion for a performance at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards in Las Vegas. His ode to Maria Callas at the Paris Opera house exemplified the designer’s ability to masterfully blend grandeur, fashion, and drama.
Paris Haute Couture week moved into full swing, with Rolland’s spectacle following shows by notable brands such as Schiaparelli, Dior, and American fashion house Thom Browne. The presentations, running through July 6, include upcoming displays from fashion powerhouses Valentino, Balenciaga, and Fendi.
In paying tribute to Maria Callas, Rolland didn’t just present a line of haute couture; he offered an experience, intertwining the world of fashion with the enchanting resonance of opera in a way that will long echo in the halls of the Paris Opera house.
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