With Paris Fashion Week drawing to a close, the season has officially ended. Fashion’s most important destination played host to top international designers who showcased their Spring 2016 Ready-to-Wear collections, reflecting global influences and eclectic inspirations. Instep rounds up some of the most memorable ones:

Alexander McQueen

Possibly the prettiest collection seen on the runway this season, Alexander McQueen’s Spring 2016 offering took a departure from the label’s edgy sensibility to give us something whimsical and romantic. Designer Sarah Burton took inspiration from 17th century English silk weavers and presented beautiful dresses with ruffles and intricate embroidery worthy of a couture garment. The soft colour palatte - pretty pinks and egg-shell whites - added to the English-rose appeal of the ensembles.

Stella McCartney

Stella McCartney’s collection was the perfect blend of sporty and luxe - a trend that is fast catching on as the style statement of the season. The vibrant hues, contrasting colour combinations and geometrical prints in stripes and checks lent the deconstructed dresses, tanks and tops a fun feel while the layering created ensembles that felt deliciously plush. Sheer, mesh and cutouts all made welcome appearances, and cemented their position as trends that are here to stay or a while.

Chanel

Karl Lagerfeld transformed the Grand Palais into an airport for his presentation, complete with ticket counters, baggage checks and stylish luggage. And if that wasn’t enough to get the audience to sit up and take notice, the clothes that were sent down the ramp wowed with their mix of classic and kitsch. From plane-patterned casual-wear such as cashmere sweaters and skirts to vibrant printed separates to quintessentially Chanel lady-like tweed suits in gorgeous colours, the designer soared to new heights.

Valentino

The Valentino collection mattered not just for the fashion it showcased but for the heartfelt message behind it. The issue of immigrants fleeing persecution and their treatment by the world at large has received widespread attention in recent months. The designers at Valentino wanted to highlight tolerance and cross-cultural expression. African and Italian influences came together in a subtle and sublime manner to create exquisite pieces that mixed neutrals such as blacks and browns.