Maison Rabih Kayrouz takes to the runway for the first time in three years — Designer Rabih Kayrouz poses with models before his Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2023 collection show for fashion house Maison Rabih Kayrouz in Paris, France, January 23, 2023. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier

PARIS — Maison Rabih Kayrouz took to the runway on Monday for the first time in three years, showing an elevated collection that toyed with the boundaries of ready-to-wear and haute couture fashion.

For his namesake label, the Lebanese designer sent models ambling through a maze of rooms in a Paris mansion, heels resonating on the wooden floor, in chic evening dresses and tailored suits.

There was just a sprinkling of sparkles, with embroidered embellishments, high around the waist and the neck of a sleeveless dress. But most looks came in single colors such as ivory or black, as well as a bright, marigold yellow.

Kayrouz, who is known for a clean, understated elegance in his styles – often seen on the red carpet –said he imagined a woman after a full day, brimming with confidence.

“For me, haute couture is not one style, not one situation – it’s know-how,” he told reporters after the show.

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Kayrouz also said that since the pandemic he has been interested in the role of clothing as protection, which he offered in his capes, jackets and dresses which served to cover the body.

Jackets were wrapped snugly across the waist, forming folds, while trousers carried a crisp crease down the middle, slightly flared at the bottom.

For the finale, models walked in pairs, carrying glasses of champagne, offering them to members of the audience as the rooms erupted in applause.

The show took place on the first day of Haute Couture Week in Paris, which runs through Thursday and features the most prestigious fashion houses, including Christian Dior and Chanel.