A year after his July 2012 debut, Raf Simons was treading on much more familiar territory for this season's Dior Couture collection. The asymmetric shapes, dramatic stripes, iridescent fabrics, and feminine silhouettes all made their returns to the catwalk. But familiarity didn't breed contempt, as the designs lit up the runway (as they are destined to do on the red carpet once front-row attendee and face of Dior Jennifer Lawrence gets her hands on these confections).
Adding cool-girl appeal to the collection, layered separates, replete with high-low coats and sheer hems, were the edgiest offerings. Though they would certainly be more in step on the street than the show's tufted evening gowns and tour de force cocktail dresses, they felt as at home at Dior as Raf has found himself to be.