Stasis never looked so good as at Elie Saab

PARIS — Elie Saab has the formula down pat: Take miles of flowing silks and tulle, whip the fabrics into flattering, nip-waisted silhouettes and cover them with a ton of shimmering sequins and beads and you've got yourself a red carpet winner.

For Wednesday's fall-winter 2012-12 couture collection, the Lebanese designer didn't stray from the winning recipe that has helped him conquer red carpets worldwide. But then again, with gowns that look that good, why would he?

Models walked the catwalk in artfully draped bustier gowns with long flowing skirts cinched at their waists with skinny belts.

Fans installed near the photographers' pit billowed the dresses' flowing chiffon just so for the photos, and the battery of flashes electrified the intricate bead work.

The dresses were feather-light and ultra-sheer, but slap on a lining and you'd be ready to go to your next movie premier, gala dinner or black tie soiree.

The fashion world demands audacity and constant change, and many designers attempt to reinvent themselves season after season. But as long as A-list actresses and wealthy women with packed social calendars keep clamoring for his high-glamour gowns, Saab needn't change a thing.