Dior Couture Fall 2008

John Galliano's inspiration for this collection was model Lisa Fonssagrives, the wife of photographer Irving Penn. And you can see Fonssagrives imprinted everywhere, from the cinched dramatic waist, the contrasting colours, the dark makeup and the arched eyebrows.
Critics such as Sarah Mower at Style.com, also saw Carla Bruni-Sarkozy in the clothes and indeed I could see the fashionable First Lady having luncheon with the Queen in these clothes (just as long as she remembers to wear panties underneath the sheer skirts.)
The architectural waists reminded me of the armour-like suits at Balenciaga Spring 2008 but instead of completing a solid look, Galliano paired it with flowy and sheer dresses making it very romantic and elegant. This is what couture is supposed to be: Dramatic, fantastical, dreamy and beautiful. (Photos: Style.com)

Edit: Here is a wonderful behind-the-scenes video of the show from the Telegraph.