Alexander McQueen shows its softer side

Alexander McQueen presents its lady-like side.
With faux feather and cascades of ruffles, the line's spring/summer collection brought fantasy and femininity to the runway.
The label, now led by creative director Sarah Burton, stayed true to its theatrical side by mixing up flirty skirts that flounced at the knee with harder-edged military details, high collars and armour-like bodices.
Burton's underwater fantasy was the show's highlight, with models transformed into mermaid warriors.
With shells in one gown, and coral in another, she created complex corseted torsos, with soft chiffon billowing beneath.
Neiman Marcus fashion director Ken Downing.
SOUNDBITE: Ken Downing, fashion director, Neiman Marcus, saying (English):
"I do believe there's a little less of an angst when I see this collection. I think because it's in the hands of a woman, we see a little more of a feminine spirit. it still has that lovely edge and we know that it's Alexander McQueen, the label, but I think there's a lovely prettiness that comes from the hands and the might of a woman."
After the show, actress Salma Hayek had nothing but praise for Burton.
SOUNDBITE: Salma Hayek, actress, saying (English):
"I think that what you saw tonight, the brilliance behind the fantasy and the beauty of the show, has nothing to do with that. I think she's already moved on from that and gone somewhere else. It was very unexpected. It was amazing."
Paris Fashion Week ends on Wednesday, October 5.
Alicia Powell, Reuters.