The designer was clearly feeling loose this season. It showed in the holographic tweeds he chose for a pair of tailleurs, the exuberant polka dots of a fuchsia satin frock, and the showgirl sequins on a nude slipdress. He reined it in for just one black crepe gown. It faded quickly into memory amid the more surprising bits on the runway tonight.

We’re not completely sold on every element here; those bondage harnesses have become a bit of a fashion cliché in the wake of that Helmut Newton show at the Grand Palais. But on balance, Copping made a convincing case for breaking out of his comfort zone.

SEPTEMBER 27, 2012PARIS

By Nicole Phelps – style.com