Paris haute couture: playful asymmetry at Jean Paul Gaultier

After bowing out of ready-to-wear last September to focus exclusively on haute couture, Jean Paul Gaultier was bound to attract the fashion world's undivided attention with this latest runway show. And he did just that. Faced with an eager audience of celebrities and collectors, the designer caused quite a stir.

The new collection consists of a number of black and white looks, but there are also shades of café au lait, bronze, ivory and eggshell and a few touches of more vibrant colors such as hot pink, neon green and red. There were even some colorful python prints in the mix.

The couturier seems to have had fun playing with asymmetry, as much with the tailoring as with the materials and colors. Certain dresses are fitted on one side and flowing on the other. A trench coat is offset by a large panel of tulle. There is even a bridal ensemble that is half dress, half pants.

A few of the looks had a distinctly urban feel, often bordering on streetwear styles, as seen in the recurring brimmed caps, worn as chic accessories. There were also pantsuits and -- one of the most surprising looks -- an overalls-style gown in a denim-effect fabric worn with a beekeeper's helmet.