There are different kinds of couture fans: those who want it to move with the times, embracing modernity à la Raf Simons at Dior; those who long for the theatrics and drama of Galliano's heyday; and then there are those of British-based couture house Ralph & Russo where old meets new seamlessly - with just a little couture fairy dust sprinkled on top.

 As far as it could be from the usual concept of the fashion-week spectacle, the Ralph & Russo show takes couture back to its inception - with the women who actually buy the dresses we were about to see waiting eagerly for their debut, some actually texting designer Tamara Ralph to ensure that the one per territory that the brand allows will not end up in the wardrobe of a rival princess or Russian heiress.

The Autumn/Winter 2015/16 Couture collection is called 'Enchanted Splendour'. Set against the backdrop of an enchanted forest, Tamara Ralph’s dreamy fairy tale like creations fit the princess theme from the neck down to the toes. Her work is a tour de force of elaborate design and labor-intensive artistry and the result is a sublime blend of tradition and modernity.

"We had a lot of vintage Sixties embroideries that we redeveloped, so that was the starting point in terms of fabric," Ralph says. "The Ralph & Russo girl this season is strong, she's beautiful; the shapes are more sensual, but within that we still have a range of styles for all our clients."

'Eden' Pumps in Midnight Blue AW15/16 pre-order at Harrod's Bourique

Ralph & Russo 'Baroque' Heel Pumps AW15/16 pre-order at Harrod's Boutique

'Eden' Pumps AW15/16 available to pre-order at Harrod's Boutique & by private order

Ralph's discerning eye goes a long way to creating an opulence that somehow still remains understated, a concept nowhere more evident than in this autumn's bridal finale.

Worn by Ana Beatriz Barros, the Victorian neckline and intricate gold embroidery of the dress was given a sexy hip-hugging shape.  How can something that is comprised of 700 metres of embroidered Chantilly lace be called "simple"? That's the Ralph & Russo je ne sais quoi.

Images Sources: Ralph & Russo    flip-zone.com    facebook/Ralph&Russo

Text Sources: Ralph & Russo     vogue/uk    wwd.com

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There is little to rival the glamour and spectacle of the Cannes Film Festival and it's accompanying action on the Croisette. The vast red carpet framed by the shimmering Mediterranean and the sunlight casting a soft-focus glow on its star attendees. Let's take a look at the best hair and make-up of the most memorable red carpet moments. 

Natalie Portman at a photocall for her directorial debut of 'A Tale of Love and Darkness'         Photo by Getty
 

Salma Hayek at the photocall for 'Tale Of Tales'                Photo by Getty
 

Charlize Theron at the 'Mad Max: Fury Road' premiere               Photo by Getty
 

Natalie Portman at the 'Sicario' premiere          Photo by Getty
 

Salma Hayek at the 'Rocco and his Brothers' premiere                    Photo by Getty
 

Emma Stone at the photocall for 'Irrational Man'             Photo by Getty
 

Sienna Miller at the Cannes Opening Ceremony                  Photo by Getty
 

Diane Kruger at the premiere for 'The Sea of Trees'           Photo by Rex Features
 

Doutzen Kroes at the 'Sicario' premiere     Photo by Getty
 

Rachel Weisz at the 'Youth' premiere             Photo by Getty
 

Chanel Iman at the 'Youth' premiere        Photo by Getty

Adriana Lima at the Sicario premiere      Photo by Rex Features
 

 
Doutzen Kroes's at the Cannes Opening Ceremony in Atelier Versace             Photo by Getty

Text & Image Source: vogue.co.uk

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