Unabashed and totally majestic, Haute Couture Week in Paris provided a breathtaking view of the best of fashion's handmade creations. The January shows had a decidedly Asian flavour. Riccardo Tisci at Givenchy used only Asian models, as well as couture pieces inspired by the crafts of the region. John Galliano at Christian Dior gave us another dip into the maison's archives with exquisitely rendered gowns in striking, and sometimes faded watercolour hues. Karl Lagerfeld at Chanel delighted with a contemporary take with light, pale hues and crystals sown intricately on sheer fabrics and even jeans. Jean Paul Gaultier's models wore mohawks and attitude in the outrageous punk-rock revival culminating in a striptease by Dita Von Teese.

Armani Priv? took the futuristic route with Philip Treacy space-ship hats and glossy, hard, liquid sheens. St?phane Rolland showed epic flowing gowns in warm bronze shades that pleased crowds and, no doubt, his many Middle Eastern clients. Alexandre Vauthier also took inspiration from the Orient in a highly ornamental collection with models in opium-den attire.

A happy contrast to the utilitarianism and minimalist revival of French ready-to-wear, Haute Couture - for the handful who can afford it - is true, glorious indulgence.