Fashion: The age of opulence

A fantasy wardrobe holds treasures to inspire childlike wonder - couture creations worth their weight in gold

Model wears long organza bustier dress, by Givenchy Haute Couture, enquiries 00 33 1 4431 5000. Left of picture: silk mikado tiered dress, by Atelier Versace, enquiries 0171-499 1862. Middle: long taffeta dress, by Christian Lacroix Couture, enquiries 00 33 1 4268 7900. Right: velvet funnel-neck top and full skirt, by Gaultier Paris, enquiries 00 33 1 4468 8505

Hessian dress scattered with Swaroski crystals, by Viktor and Rolf, enquiries 00 312 0419 6188

Silk mikado tiered dress, as before

Model wears

embroidered silk skirt and satin jacket with Mongolian lamb collar, by Christian Dior Couture, enquiries 00 33 1 4073 5444.

Left of picture: long taffeta dress, by Christian Lacroix Couture, as before. Middle: silk mikado long dress, by Atelier Versace, as before. Right: silk taffeta bustier dress, by Chanel Haute Couture, enquiries 00 33 1 4286 2800

Stylist's assistants Marie Creac'h and Clara Sibille

Models Mariella Gardella Van Schalkwyk and Alex Borgeson (younger model)