Kobi Halperin took his first turn in Paris with his brand for spring, a major step for the New York-based designer, who is celebrating the 10th anniversary of his label. “I feel strong enough and confident enough to bring these beautiful clothes and create what I consider smart luxury,” he said backstage ahead of the show.

Inspired by the lavish interior and gardens of the Hôtel des Maisons, the private mansion on the Left Bank where he held his show, he sought to bring the historic space to life, sending out a luxuriant collection with a ‘70s tinge full of embroidered blossoms and foliage, beaded fringing, flecks of gold and ruffles in a muted color palette echoing nature and referencing the Garden of Eden.

“It all started with Adam and Eve. And basically, when you think about it, that’s the beginning of fashion,” he said.

Cue snake motifs evoking the original sin, worked as sinuous gilded belts, necklaces and headpieces. Halperin drew parallels with what clothing choices say about a person. “I can know much more about you when you are dressed than when you are naked or exposed,” said Halperin. “Fashion is a way of telling a beautiful story and telling who you are through the clothes.”

Gauzy ruffled dresses, blouses and harem pants displayed faded floral prints evoking the wall murals of the venue and the garden visible through the windows. Lush embroideries emboldened the prints further, and vests and bra tops featured strands of beading. Guipure and lace cutouts provided further detail, while elements of indigo denim and a pink fil coupé pantsuit were among the more structured looks.