Gowns with gradated ruffled skirts were accessorised with delicate head scarves in fashion designer Giambattista Valli's haute-couture collection, shown in Paris yesterday.

Giambattista Valli put on one of the most talked-about shows at Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week with a Mediterranean-themed collection.

The show began with black and white striped silk garments, with material gathered into skirts or draped into dresses to create a courtier version of casual poolside attire.

Stripes continued on pencil skirts, some of which featured sheer strips and sequinned panels, creating a 1960s feel.

Flared calf-length skirts on strapless and high-necked dresses took this one step further, referencing the holiday attire of golden-age Hollywood stars.

Tulle dresses were scattered with embroidered and appliqued fabric flowers in purple, yellow, pink, white and green.

Floral patterns covered a series of floor-length silk chiffon dresses, while frilled tops included bunches of purple petals.

Flowing monochrome dresses had long sleeves in black and white, accessorised with golden belts and necklaces.

A full-length goat-hair cape with black and white patches was worn over one billowing lightweight gown.

Models wore white, or black and white, scarves tied into a knot on top of their head.

The show closed with gowns that featured collared shirt tops paired with voluminous ruffled chiffon skirts in gradated pastel colours.

Italian-born Valli has a studio in Paris and put on his first solo show in the city in 2005. This season's Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week continues until 11 July.