PARIS, Jan 30, 2010 / FW/ — Taking inspiration from Russian history, specifically the First World War era and the demise of Imperial Russia, Josephus Thimister showed his audience a fragmented Russia – the elegance of the Imperial Court versus the images of the Soviet revolutionaries.

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Military references were inevitable as seen in the fur-lined olive green coat. The influences of Marx and Lenin, which would eventually take over the whole Russian Empire to become the USSR are represented in the in the form of red capes, fur and carves.

Yet, amidst these very stark symbols is the pageantry of the Imperial Court – long glittering evening gowns. Here, the shade of red is different. Instead of being revolutionary, it is about royalty and power.

[FELICIA PRINCE]