Updated Wednesday July 4, 8.39am: Dark, powerful and strong were the buzzwords of Givenchy's autumn/winter 2012-12 couture collection. Held at the Place Vendôme yesterday, Riccardo Tisci's latest offering was inspired by a fusion of the gypsy world and "the pure lines of the Sixties" - as its presentation notes read. Intricate embroidery gave a hand-crafted, artisanal feel, while rich fabrics - from leather to silk velvet - gave an air of heightened luxury.  Giorgio Armani's Privé collection was an altogether more feminine affair, with a pastel-based colour palette and floor-length gowns that shone with sparkle.