The Italian label which has just announced preparation plans for an IPO, kicked off the Fall/Winter 2015/2016 season of Haute Couture Week in Paris, with an ethereal showcase that departed from its usual edginess. Instead Donatella Versace opted for a softer, sinewy, feminine look that was "out of her comfort zone", unveiling a more muted palette of dove grey, light turquoise and baby pink dresses made from layers of exquisite material like threaded georgette, cobwebby lace and frayed chiffon.

The soft waves of fabric were accented with Swarovski crystals, complimented with seven-inch platform shoes or knee high boots, and embellished with boned corsets which were often transparent and covered with jewels.

"For me a corset represents the toughness of a woman," explained Versace.

The fashion show was held at the Palais Brongniart, which used to house the Parisian stock exchange, and featured an elaborate runway of 30-metre long glass case housing 25,000 freshly cut orchids.