Designer Windy Chandra, 27, revived the 19th-century ball gown in his "Couture Carnival" show early this month.

Inspired by the French circus troupe Cirque de Soleil show Alegria, Windy dressed models in an intricate and extravagant style showing strong imagination and craftsmanship.

At the Shangri-La Hotel's Lobby Lounge, the glitterati's jaws dropped as they watched models walk in glittering ball gowns with Swarovski crystals appliqu*d on corsets. The gowns had wide balloon skirts and the models had tall, curly baroque-style hairdos.

Windy is a young Indonesian designer specializing in glamorous couture evening gowns. In 2004, he represented Indonesia at an international couture competition, Concours International des Jeunes Creatures de Mode in France.

According to Windy, Alegria is a classical tale of good versus evil, in which history serves as a lesson for human beings.

"I applied the theme to Victorian-silhouette-inspired fashion combining contemporary style with classical style," Windy said after the show.

He combined the Western-style ball gown with traditional Tasikmalayan krancang embroidery patterns. He also applied Sumatran usus embroidery style in his designs.

Windy deliberately incorporated contradictions into his designs.

"Contradiction is always present in a circus show," he said adding that is why he combined Western and local traditional style.

Some 30 gowns from his collection were showcased. The collection was a mix of knee-length gowns, long gowns and wedding gowns.

Belts made from sequined Swarovski crystals were prevalent. Windy uses a mixture of chiffon, Thai silk, taffeta, and organza for his dresses. In his collection, the dominant colors were basic colors such as black, red, purple and gold.

"Cirque de Soleil is renowned for being glamorous. That is why I generously put applications of Swarovski crystals on the dresses," he said.

He played with the design of the bustiers as well as flower details on the shoulders. An interesting top design was a plunging V-back, showing off the model's back.

He focused on high-waisted balloon skirts, modifying them with details of layers, ruffles, feathers, bows, flowers and crystals.

"I like things that are extravagant and amazing. That is why I chose this theme for my show."

The models wore chunky accessories from Tasha D. gioielli and handmade high heels from Fendy Wong.

As much as the dresses were creative and extravagant, they were not practical.

It was a hard task for the models to keep their composure, be elegant and at the same time walk in tight corsets, long wide gowns and super-high shoes.

A couple of models trampled on the edge of their dresses.

Despite the shortcomings, Windy received applause with some guests in the audience giving a standing ovation. For his detailed work and his exquisite craftsmanship, Windy deserved it.

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