Despite taking place in the usually sunny city of Cannes, Philipp Plein’s resort collection was threatened by possible rain. Thus, the garden of the designer’s house, which has hosted his resort shows for a decade now, was replaced by another—equally charming—location: the Carlton Beach Club, one of the most famous places of Cannes. The Cannes Film Festival, which is currently in session, has long fascinated Plein. “It’s the place to be, especially at the beginning of the summer season,” he said.

Womenswear only, the new offering is an explicit ode to cocktail and evening dresses, mostly in black, with 16 looks that are proof of Plein’s commitment to a very niche segment of the market. The sparkling gowns showcased incredible craftsmanship: A fully sequined black dress with red stone embroideries required the labor of two women and 10 days to make, while the short dress in sequined python skin was further decorated with a three-dimensional snake. Cocktail dresses and suede separates were covered in strass, too, while an A-line LBD boasted a crystal version of the matelassé technique. The lineup also included some floaty draped dresses.