Jean Paul Gaultier - Paris Fashion Week's Dramatic Closing

Paris Fashion Week came to a dramatic end yesterday (10.03.10) with Miu Miu, Jean Paul Gaultier and Marc Jacobs showcasing their latest collections.

Model Lily Cole was the star attraction in the Gaultier show, parading down the catwalk in a black leather catsuit as she opened the designer's Autumn/Winter 2010/11 women's ready-to-wear range for the French fashion house Hermes.

Speaking about his collection, Gaultier said the inspiration came from a series of British icons, including James Bond.

He said: "It's very English, inspired by The City, bankers clothes revamped for the women who work there. It's a kind of Mrs. Bond, a Bondette."

Miuccia Prada presented Miu Miu's collection, which was sleek without compromising its reputation for fun, colour and opulent fabrics.

Elle Macpherson, Karolina Kurkova, Laetitia Casta and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley all took to the catwalk in Jacobs' show for Louis Vuitton, which went back to the 50s with full A-line skirts and high waists.

Earlier in the week, Karl Lagerfeld showcased his designs for Chanel, with a collection which revolved around a giant iceberg and was watched by Lindsay Lohan and Vanessa Paradis.

The traditional Chanel tweeds were encrusted with glacial jewellery and fur embroidery.

The late Alexander McQueen's last-ever collection was also shown and was backed by the sepulchral 17th-century choral music he had listened to while creating the range, which consisted of high-necked, close-fitting satin dresses accessorised with high-heeled carved gold shoes and thigh-high boots.

The 15 looks were emblazoned with motifs of angels and other religious and medieval imagery.