Paris—After-Five - fashion - Brief Article

Fashionable Paris is always edgy and stylish, so it's not surprising that this season's after-five collections from the world fashion mecca include standout creations that demand attention. Whether you are schmoozing at a big charity benefit, dining with friends or hanging out at trendy clubs, there are numerous options sure to suit your taste in fashions and nightlife. Among the evening attire shown by various Parisian designers were bohemian-influenced styles that hinted of Gypsy and Spanish origins. This theme also was advanced with peasant blouses of all ilks and fabrics, including an off-the-shoulder creation with long "shredded" sleeves. Zippers made a bold statement, sometimes front and centered, but also up the sides of pants, diagonally across bodices and from waistline to hem of skirts. Other bold accessories were belts, which usually were wide and sometimes intricately embellished with studs and gems. Whatever your mood, whatever the occasion, French designers make it easy to feel great and look stunning in Paris--or wherever you happen to be--after five.

Veronique Leroy's fuchsia pant ensemble has flatfront slacks with zip-up side slits and strapless top with diagonal front zipper. It is accented with necklace over man's formal collar and tie and fingerless glove on one hand.

Long, layered leather and suede Christian Lacroix cocktail dress with ruffles and colorful ribbons flowing from shoulder to hip and from hemline to floor. Accessorized with colorful hose.

Textured, off-the-shoulder peasant blouse with "shredded" sleeves worn with body-hugging slim pant and studded leather belt slung low on hips, by Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent.

Form-fitting, long halter cocktail dress of stripe and-floral print with thigh-high side split, by Leonard. Note: Knee-length boots.

Cropped cocktail pant topped with salmon-colored, satin, spaghetti-strapped top, by Isabel Marant. Note: White choker with silk flower.

Deep V-neck evening gown of silk-screened, lavender floral print on black background has black leather on right shoulder and leather sleeve on left arm, by Leonard.

Patchwork-print chiffon dress has transparent cap sleeves and long transparent flounce around short hemline, by John Galliano for Dior. Note: Oversized knit hat with lace veiling, silver beaded belt and cowboy boots.

Valentino's evening ensemble features knee-length coat with satin lining that flows into lapel, full pant and high-collared, lace blouse with scalloped waist.

Sleeveless cat suit with horizontal stripes and floral pattern worn under mid-calf length, maroon leather skirt that has two-way zipper from calf to waist, by Leonard. Accessorized with patent leather maroon ankle boots.

Body-hugging red dress with asymmetrical neckline by Colette Dinnigan features intricate embroidered design on bodice, sleeves and skirt.

Sleeveless, micromini Venera Arapu wrap dress with oversized V neck and armholes, accessorized with matching rib knit turtle-neck collar and belt.

Oversized peasant blouse with oval neckline and sleeves gathered at wrist is worn with narrow pant, by Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent. Accessorized with long, fringed scarf at neck and extra-wide, ornate leather belt.