CHRISTIAN DIOR CRUISE 2008 REVIEW

After a collectively applauded Japanese-inspired Couture spring show, it's no surprise Galliano chose to keep the Asian train chugging along for the Christian Dior 2008 cruise collection presented in New York. This time around, Galliano mixed the elaborate embroidery and textile offerings of Bollywood and Morocco with – gasp - ladylike, Stepford-approved two pieces, whipping it into a frothy dollop like only Galliano can. You may require a napkin for this: With Jackie O bouffants teetering from beneath expansive brimmed hats and structured patent bags in hand, Galliano's girls were the ultimate, candy-painted retro follies. Rich-looking with a capital Cha-Ching, there was an Marrakesh embroidered, peach colored silk capri ensemble, an asymmetrically collared mint green goddess gown, and a gamut of leopard print dresses, including a one-shouldered leaf green version on Agyness Deyn.

At times, the retro feeling verged on vulgar, climaxing at the sight of a fur-trimmed silk robe on a bikini-clad Caroline Trentini, but the unavoidable confectionery insinuations will surely leave both its brassy consumers - and cash registers - smiling.

Christian Dior Cruise 2008 'Runway Pictures'