So much of fashion week coverage and designer collection inspiration is pretty shallow.  What does the customer want this season? Color? Black? Cashmere? What does a chic fashionista wear in Paris?

Albert Elbaz on the other hand reached beyond and considered this question in global terms.  This examination led to a project in Africa via the United Nations.  He realized women on an International level want vocational skills and empowerment.  How did this translate aesthetically?

While pounding tribal drums played, the looks increasingly showed a power play of pronounced shoulders, austere suits.  The color palette was an urban-friendly charcoal grey, olive, black and taupe. However the outfits were embellished with lavish ethnic embroideries, big native statement necklaces and stiff feathered accents.

The handbags were small, but not discreet.  Chunky chain handles were accessorized with feathers, motifs.  The bags echoed the patterns of African animal skins.

Spotted in the Front Row: Juliette Binoche, Jared Leto, Jade Jagger

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