Some Haute Couture heavyweights surprised the crowds with high fashion that is both wearable and practical. Christian Lacroix showed a collection that signaled a departure from historic and ethnic references in favor of strong geometrics in (as always) vivid colors as well as a few exquisitely simple little black dresses. In a tribute to Matisse, Yves Saint Laurent featured a return to the Romanian peasant top. And days after he sealed his union with Hermès, new member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Jean Paul Gaultier showed his first official haute couture collection – earning rave reviews once again. Fashion’s (former) bad boy continues to ride an unbreakable wave. Photo: Agence JAVA