Garbage bags and beaded shoes: Couture newcomers make a statement in Paris

The husband-wife design team behind A.F. Vandevorst made their Paris couture debut with a striking, punk-inspired collection. "Being on the couture schedule gave us freedom. Because we are guests, we are not bound by the real rules of haute couture," designer An Vandevorst said following the show, reported fashion magazine Women's Wear Daily.

Several of the couture creations in the A.F. Vandevorst collection utilized garbage bags as skirts, hats and dresses. Although some designers have played with using unconventional materials in the past, this A.F. Vandevorst gown seeks to make a trash bag truly wearable.

Some of the A.F. Vandevorst looks involved putting traditional pieces in untraditional places - such as this long coat being used as a head piece on top of a military-style jacket.

New York-based brand Proenza Schouler also debuted as a "guest member" in this summer's Paris haute couture week. Dark bustiers peeked out behind asymmetrically-draped ruffles in dresses that are seeking to be both high-fashion and ready-to-wear.

Proenza Schouler played it up with their inventive footwear. Long, tubular beads gave a frilly feel to these flat slingback shoes.

Official haute couture designer Adeline Andre, who also designs ballet and opera costumes, integrated theatrical elements into her show. Models appeared encased in rigid, colorful forms, but gradually shed their outer garments to reveal the dresses underdeath.

With a little help from designer Adeline Andre (L) herself, the structural shells were removed and models continued to walk the runway in simple, flowing gowns.