Forests’ mystery folds Tony Ward Haute Couture F/W 2019-2020
Diala Aschkar, Art Director at Orient Palms, France

Forests’ mystery folds

Tony Ward Haute Couture F/W 2019-2020

Tony Ward presented his sumptuous Haute Couture Fall-Winter 2019/2020 fashion show at the Intercontinental Paris Le Grand hotel. The collection was inspired by a surprising theme, an ancient and mystical creature that inhabits the woods: the mushroom! It translated into eccentric shapes, structures and folds that looked both original and grandiose. Tens of thousands of organza layers were pleated in all sorts of techniques, - even 3D printing - to create poetic and theatrical gowns in colors ranging from deep red, white, beige, walnut and cerulean blue.

A series of vibrant red gowns started the show, with a first statement gown all fluffy at the shoulders and skirt, with clinched waist. It was followed by a breathtaking red ensemble of organza fil-coupé jacket, contrasting with a sharp deep-V neckline.

The serie of blue gowns was as impressive as the red ones. Below, this A-cut dress is highlighted through the wrinkled fil coupé shoulder that slowly merges throughout the bodice and blends in with the Silk Gazar skirt.

Looking otherworldly, this 3D printed white dress — with biodegradable material — is embroidered with tulle to hold the seemingly hovering structure.

The image features a model walking on a runway, showcasing a striking dress. The dress is predominantly white and has an intricate design resembling delicate, layered filaments or strands that create a three-dimensional effect. It has a fitted silhouette that flares out slightly, with short sleeves made from the same intricate material. The setting appears elegant, with a soft background and luxurious flooring, emphasizing the avant-garde nature of the outfit. The model completes the look with matching high heels, exuding a modern and artistic vibe.

One of my favorite looks is this beige short dress with a voluminous shoulder pleating and full beading!

The image features a model walking down a runway, wearing a glamorous, one-shouldered dress made of shimmering metallic sequins. The dress is intricately designed with a large, textured embellishment on one shoulder, adding a dramatic flair. The model has a sleek hairstyle and is showcasing the dress confidently. The background showcases soft, flowing curtains, typical of a fashion event setting, with seated guests observing the show. The overall mood is elegant and fashionable.

Like mushrooms on a tree trunk, discontinued beaded pleats seem to grow on these mermaid dresses.

Elegance transcends from this masterpiece neckline of layered silk organza that is repeated on the bottom-line of the mermaid dress. The embroidered mushroom motif adds to its originality.

Statement necklines again! Delicate and airy in silk organza this time, on an off-white mermaid dress in Moroccan silk. To the right, the silk organza dress looks like a night gown for royalty with its puffy empire shoulders, beadings and gorgeous V-neckline.

Seen from the side, the sleeves seem like elegant champignon caps.

The image depicts a behind-the-scenes fashion moment. A model, wearing a striking gown with large, dramatic sleeves, is being adjusted by a stylist. The gown has a textured, light-colored fabric that contrasts with the dark background. In the background, there are two individuals watching the fitting—one wearing glasses and a casual outfit, and another in a vest. The atmosphere suggests excitement and anticipation for a fashion show or photoshoot.

The brown series carried us further into the mysterious forests’ undergrowth and its various textures of wood, leaves and foam.

The image features several models showcasing elaborate dresses, all designed in shades of brown. The gowns are intricately styled, with textures that resemble organic materials, such as leaves or ripples. The models pose in a sophisticated setting, likely backstage at a fashion show. Each dress exhibits a unique silhouette and design detail, highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship involved in the garments. The atmosphere appears busy yet elegant, with stylists working on the models' hair and makeup.

This asymmetrical Jacquard cloqué dress with a stiff drappé neckline is simply dazzling.

The image features a model walking down a runway, showcasing an elegant evening gown. The gown is a rich brown color and has a textured surface, resembling a luxurious fabric. It features a single shoulder strap and a high slit on one side, adding a touch of allure to the outfit. The model's hair is styled in an intricate manner, and she wears stylish silver shoes that complement the gown. The setting appears to be a fashion show, with a soft, neutral backdrop and an audience seated in the background.

The walnut midi dress below subtly progresses from a silk thread-applique-made bodice to a multi-layered silk organza skirt.

This "Sea of beige", as I like to call it, was made of more than 60 meters of silk organza, carefully and gradually manipulated into different types of foamy pleats.

The clinched waist anchors the feminine silhouette.

The bride would have looked like a ballet dancer with her Swarovski beaded corset extending into a "tutu" shape if it wasn’t for the spherical skirt underneath that took more than 500 meters of organza and Mikado silk layering. A tilted hat made of 3D-printed fibers holds a fluffy tulle veil which anarchic organic shape goes well with the theme of this collection.

The image features a model wearing an elegant, voluminous white wedding gown. The dress has a strapless bodice and is adorned with intricate details, creating a textured appearance. The skirt is full and layered, made up of ruffled fabric that adds to its dramatic silhouette. The model is also wearing a delicate veil and a headpiece, complementing the bridal look. The setting is quite refined, with soft lighting and an elegant backdrop, likely at a fashion show or bridal exhibition.