Written by Le CITY Deluxe USA Contributing Editor, Derek H. Sparks, covering Paris Fashion Week.  Perhaps one of the most remarkable aspects of the John Galliano Spring 2017 collection was how welcoming it is, especially when viewed against the contrasting array of military uniforms and evening gowns featured in last year’s show.  Imagine pieces accumulated over generations, a marvelous buildup of garments resonating with vestiges of adventure and romance.  This latest women’s collection can’t wait to be tried on and enjoyed according to the native desires of a gifted imagination.

It is in this spirit that John Galliano creative director Bill Gaytten conceived a lineup that intersperses recreated period pieces with underpinnings to arrive at looks that are aristocratic and naïve in equal measure.

Within a muted palette, Galliano’s latest offering features an enchanting array of new women's collectibles.  Delicate, sheer silk chiffon, lace dresses channeling the 1930's, are accentuated with bias ruffle tiers and draped décolleté that remain the John Galliano signature.  Visible undergarments – knickers and bras – project innocence rather than seduction.

Paper-mâché masks – formed, painted and whiskered by the Steven Jones millinery studio – pose atop the head with an enchanted edge.  Among the menagerie:  A rabbit, owl, lion, dog and zebra, plus two old-fashioned comic heroes.  

Finally, stiletto sandals with leaf detailing and The Chain, a new handbag available exclusively at John Galliano boutiques, transform a child-like daydream into a modern, feminine vision.

"For me, this collection reawakens the imagination," remarks Gaytten.  "By virtue of the storyline, it mixes savoir faire with the 'joy of dressing':  it resonates today."