Chanel models in sorbet pink skip down stairs at Paris fashion show

A model presents a creation by German designer Karl Lagerfeld for French fashion house Chanel as part of his Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2014 fashion show in Paris January 21, 2014. [Photo/Agencies]

Sweet lovers attend Paris fashion show

Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2014

For Chanel's haute couture collection in Paris on Tuesday, creative director Lagerfeld presented no less than an orchestra, a revolving stage, two curving staircases and over 60 suits and dresses in sorbet shades for Spring/Summer 2014.

Under the soaring ceiling of the Grand Palais, the rapt audience was treated to a frothy and oh-so-chic spectacle as models in sparkly sneakers skipped down the stairs to musical accompaniment.

"To give to very expensive, handmade, beautiful crafted clothes ... an attitude of something everybody wears in daily life, that brings couture, in a way, to reality," said Lagerfeld after the show, explaining the choice of footwear.

Silhouettes were cinched at the waist - no overeating for Chanel wearers this season - with corset skirts under cropped jackets in creamy pale ivories, lavenders and even a shocking Pepto Bismol pink.

A tight waist of black sparkles dramatically separated four tiers of pleated ruffles in metallic dove grey silk on the bodice of a dress from another ruffled cascade at the hem.

In pairing sneakers with the highly embellished haute couture looks, Lagerfeld gave a nod to the prevalence of sportswear and displayed his trademark sense of humor.

Models emerged from an entrance at the crest of the double staircase wearing silver elbow- and knee-pads - presumably to fend off the hoards of women willing to kill for such an outfit.

The Paris shows, which run until Friday, are a prestigious showcase for a select group of couture houses whose garments are meticulously hand-sewn by highly skilled artisans.

Haute couture - which due to its prohibitive cost is worn by only a few hundred of the richest women around the world - has a minimal effect on a luxury brand's sales, but it is a major marketing driver for the $275 billion global luxury industry.

Privately owned Chanel does not disclose financial results.