New York Magazine

With a recession hovering on the horizon, penny-pinching is trendy again, however being economical with space? Not so much: Spring magazines, shop windows, even runway shows were full of billowing mushroom-cloud dresses. This inflated silhouette—which comes thanks to the trend-setting Alber Elbaz at Lanvin—swallows its wearer whole, reducing the figure two limbs and a tiny pin-head. In wearing one of these filmy, imposing gowns, the gala-going girl becomes entirely swept up in fabric and high fashion. But considering the current landscape, who can blame us for wanting such a dreamy, encapsulating escape?

Lanvin’s Paris store windows from Jak & Jill

Antonio Berardi F/W ’08

Antonio Berardi, F/W ’08

Lanvin dress photographed by Max Abadian from TIG