Laurence Xu Couture Spring 2015

In his second Paris couture presentation — he first showed in July 2013 — Laurence Xu added touches of modernity to his embellished red carpet wear.  Traditional Chinese embroidery, silk flowers and beaded embroidery that was almost like armor in some looks fought for attention on dramatic medieval shapes that would be at home on the set of “Game of Thrones.” But there were also touches of vinyl and a diamond-patterned cut-out bodice that were distinctly more 20th century (a la Sixties and Seventies). The mélange was most successful on a series of gowns that through their coloring and the placing of adornments were akin to haughty peacocks. While Xu’s designs might be too busy for purists, they have a theatrical impact.

Laurence Xu Couture Spring 201529 Photos