When we first read that menswear was the inspiration for Alexis Mabille's Fall 2014 Haute Couture show we had certain preconceptions.  We were off.  By quite a bit.  Sure there are a couple of pieces thrown in here and there that nod to men's construction and style but nothing overtly so.  The looks are structured - tiny waists accentuated with belts and corset inspired details and lapels popping up on the top halves of dresses.

Overall the pieces are pretty but for us the flow just wasn't there.  Some of the pieces feel like they don't belong - that they aren't quite special enough to be haute couture, that they were simply filler pieces.  Is it pretty?  Sure.  Completely innovative?  Mmmm not quite.  

Menswear was meant to be the inspiration for the Alexis Mabille Fall 2014 Haute Couture Collect ion - note the lapels on the tops of evening gowns and double-breasted buttons that evoke a certain mysterious sexiness.

These rich ruby gowns are among our favorites although we have to admit that the quilted material reminds of quite a bit of upholstery material - perhaps that is what Scarlet O'hara's dress would have looked like if the drapes hadn't been available?

For us, this Haute Couture Collection just misses the mark - it's not far enough outside the box to be hugely innovative - there just isn't enough risk there.  It's pretty, it's just not quite that special.

Thank you to Style for the photos!