Undoubtedly my personal highlight of the global fashion calendar is the biannual Haute Couture shows held in Paris from Jan. 23 to 26. The week showcases the creative brilliance of only a handful of exclusive fashion houses that have been specially granted the designation of “Haute Couture.”

The collections on display were what fashion dreams are made of. No expense or detail is spared when it comes to these masterfully tailored custom pieces. Viewers feasted their eyes on delectable, luscious fabrics that have been flawlessly contoured into creative takes on classic designs.

Prepare to be inspired as you peruse some of the spectacular highlights from January’s Spring/Summer 2012 Haute Couture shows.

Elie Saab

Elie Saab’s show was a display of breathtakingly beautiful gowns fit for a princess.

All the fabrics featured subtle, yet striking detail that added depth and interest to the simple silhouettes. Carrying through the sherbet hues that featured in many of the ready-to-wear collections of the same season, any one of these Elie Saab creations will ensure that the wearer is the belle of the ball.

Chanel

Infamous for always putting on an unforgettable show, Chanel parades are never just about the clothes, but the entire guest experience.

This year was no exception, with the privileged passengers transported back to the golden glamour age of air travel. Ushered through a makeshift airport terminal and into the awaiting jumbo jet, guests were asked to take their assigned seats in preparation for a first-class show. And just like the open sky visible from plane windows, shades of blue dominated the runway.

Although the collection was pristinely perfect, compared to some of Lagerfeld’s other work, it was somewhat creatively conservative and definitely within the lines of Coco’s more traditional legacy.

Valentino

Valentino’s models floated down the runway draped in a truly charming collection that had distinct influences from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Pictures portrayed fragile sweetness with the neutral color palette

brought to life by watercolor floral prints and ornate lacing and appliqués.

Christian Dior

I have always had a soft spot for Christian Dior and admittedly am still mourning the departure of creative genius John Galliano. It is no secret that the house has had a hard year.

Going back to basics with direct interpretations of Dior’s famed new look was a smart, safe bet. All about elegance and glamor with a simple color story of black, white, red, and plum, the collection featured some of my personal highlights of the week.

And for those of you keeping up with fashion reports, the latest is that Belgian designer Raf Simons has left Jil Sander possibly with Dior in sight, according to a recent Reuters article.