Chanel Pre-Fall 2012: A ‘Diwali’ Feast Indulging in Excess [PHOTOS]

The Chanel Pre-Fall 2012 show was a scrumptious Diwali feast, indulging in sheer excess. Set in the Grand Palais in Paris, models glided down a circular runway between two bountiful banquets set parallel on each side. Piled high on silver trays were fruits and flowers. Candelabras held flickering white candles.

The theme of the show was Bombay-meets-Paris, according to Style.com. Karl Lagerfeld wanted to evoke classic Indian decadence.

The collection is drenched with glittering embellishment, metallics, draping and luxurious fabrics. Echoing classic Indian silhouettes, the collection is complete with modern twists on saris, churidars and kameezs. It is a stunning homage to the rich Indian culture melded with archetypical Parisian styles. A decidedly brazen move by fashion royalty.

The models wore make-up that was just as flamboyant. Peter Philips, Chanel's creative director of make-up, doused the models in metallics and smoky kohl to match the ornate clothing. We wanted a graphic interpretation of an iconic Indian beauty ideal, Philips said. The models' eyes wore kohl-rimmed eyes that were something between mysterious and rock 'n' roll.

Phillips used his new ultra-luxe Illusion d'Ombre in Nirvana to blend beneath the lower lash line and drag upward. He primed faces with Perfection Lumiere foundation and dusted on a touch of Chanel Joues Contraste Blush in Brume d'Or for a hint of cheek rouge. Lips were colored with Rouge Coco Shine in Empreinte, a muted pink shade.

At the last minute I added some golden highlights on cheeks and eyes, Philips said, using Chanel's upcoming, limited-edition Route des Indes palette, which is due on shelves in June.

One of the most eye-catching beautifications was Chanel's newest nail polish, Diwali. The rich, yellow gold is the perfect shade of metallic. The lacquer is in homage to the famous 'celebration of light' that takes place in India, according to Philips. It will be available in summer 2012.

Check out the stunning Bombay-meets-Paris looks, courtesy of Style.com.