Alexander McQueen presents its lady-like side.<br/> With faux feather and cascades of ruffles, the line's spring/summer collection brought fantasy and femininity to the runway.<br/> 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.<br/> Burton's underwater fantasy was the show's highlight, with models transformed into mermaid warriors.<br/> With shells in one gown, and coral in another, she created complex corseted torsos, with soft chiffon billowing beneath.<br/> Neiman Marcus fashion director Ken Downing.<br/> SOUNDBITE: Ken Downing, fashion director, Neiman Marcus, saying (English):<br/> "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."<br/> After the show, actress Salma Hayek had nothing but praise for Burton.<br/> SOUNDBITE: Salma Hayek, actress, saying (English):<br/> "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."<br/> Paris Fashion Week ends on Wednesday, October 5.<br/> Alicia Powell, Reuters.
