Paris haute couture: fluid pleats at Giorgio Armani Privé

On Tuesday, January 27, the Italian couturier unveiled the Spring-Summer 2015 collection from his haute couture label, Armani Privé, at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris. The venue was a fitting one, as each look reflects the influence of Japanese culture, along with an emphasis on themes and motifs inspired by nature.

The natural influence is seen in the color palette -- with its multiple soft shades of white, off-white, greens and blues -- and in the myriad bamboo prints, which range from representative motifs to abstract patterns resembling blurred camouflage. Of course there is also some black, namely in the evening looks and typically accented with light shimmery accents (namely crystals), which are never ostentatious.

The influence of Japan is seen namely in the tailoring, which echoes certain elements of traditional Japanese dress. Silk, muslin and other delicate materials are seen in flowing pants and long skirts, creating an impression of lightness, which is underscored by pleats and plissé work in certain looks.

It's hard to understate the prominence of bamboo, a theme that ties together the Japanese influence and the natural one. The leaves and stalks of the plant are printed on dresses and skirts (often on sheer fabrics), pants, jackets, cardigans, and even clutches and belts.

In terms of accessories, the traditional Japanese obi belt is omnipresent, tied in multiple different ways and worn either high around the waist or low at the hip. The jewelry and sandals, meanwhile, reflected the natural theme.