The true skill and essence of the Italian house is demonstrated in this Atelier Versace Fall 2016 Haute Couture collection defined by pure elegance and experimentation. Powerful silhouettes exude control from draped, extravagant evening gowns and pleats that trace the body in waves. Dramatic twists and flashes of embellishments reflect a woman’s power and allure.

Donatella Versace pays homage to the “elegance, sophistication and drama of today’s woman” with one of her most ladylike collections to date. Replete with duchess satin folds and pleats, the collection gives a nod to the ’50s while gowns slashed up to the thigh or down to navel delivered the signature Versace sex appeal. The flowing, graceful dresses are the result of engineered pattern cutting; the drapes and constructed volumes showing the true skills of the Atelier.

In the runway show, models sported messy chignons courtesy of Guido Palau and ice blue cat-eyes and glittering burgundy lips by Pat McGrath. There was no shortage of star power on the runway, with everyone from Karen Elson and Irina Shayk to Carolyn Murphy and “It Girl” Bella Hadid all walking in the show.

Go backstage and experience the final moments before the extravagant Atelier Versace gowns reveal their beauty on the runway.