Marchesa: fashion as high art

Taking her inspiration from Madame Butterfly, Marchesa designer Georgina Chapman turned tulle and beads into pure art. A laser cut satin strapless gown -- a fashionable tribute to the work of Tord Boontje -- combined classic elegance and technology. A lilac ombre tulle dress with organza flower detail turned one model into a delicate, living flower. These were museum-quality cocktail-hour offerings which will no doubt wind up on full red carpet display.