Versace's Sultry Summer

Pop diva Christina Aguilera, who appeared in Versace's latest print ad campaign, set flashguns popping at the evening show in an ornate room at the swank Ritz hotel owned by Mohamed Al Fayed, who also was in attendance. The Italian designer, back on the Paris catwalk for the first time in 18 months, sent out a bevy of beauties in her own image: long locks - most of them blond like hers - combed pin straight, bodies tanned and stomachs toned. Her mini-dresses showed why Versace is synonymous with glamour: a canary yellow mini with criss-crossing woven strips of satin, chiffon and suede, and a pink and green number in draped crystal fringe oozed sex appeal.

Versace likes her models to show skin: circular cut-outs of varying sizes abounded at the midriff, necklines plunged and strands of crystals wrapped around the hip created a peekaboo effect. For actresses and singers like Aguilera looking for red-carpet attire, the designer didn't disappoint: low-cut floor-length gowns in lilac, light blue, lime and black glittered with jewels. Versace greeted her fans at show's end in a white halter top and tight white trousers - mirroring her first runway piece, a white satin pant suit with trousers flared at the knee and a belted jacket with flashy silver detailing.