For his Spring Summer 2013 Collection, designer Tadashi Shoji took a gorgeous trip around the world, from Venice to Kazakhstan and the Gobi Desert. This season was a slight departure from the stunning red-carpet-ready gowns he typically shows, with more relaxed, looser silhouettes, flat sandals and tie-dye like prints.

Beginning in Venice, Shoji drew on vintage Venetian cutwork and embroidered lace in the saturated hues of blue lagoons, terracotta, and paprika. The elegant necklines, cap sleeves, and flouncy circle skirts were a refreshing, ladylike trend. Intricate velvet floral designs, reminiscent of Venetian architecture, added breathtaking detail without looking labored or heavy. Delicate lace was used liberally throughout the collection, most notably in a pair of sheer black lace pants.

Moving eastward to Kazakhstan, Shoji incorporated prints, mixing them to create a sophisticated bohemian vibe. There was a playful juxtaposition in taking an ethnic Ikat print, inspired by the caves of Dunhuang, and making it into a demure chiffon dress with flutter sleeves and an ankle-grazing hemline.

The grand finale was an endless parade of stunning evening gowns. This is where Shoji really shines. Intricate beading, tiers of delicate lace, dramatic backs, pools of weightless chiffon and all in pale shades of nude and blush.

The music crescendos triumphantly and the final look emerges – a delicate confection in tulle with a trompe l’oeil off the shoulder collar. In an effortless blending of modernity and antiquity, Shoji has concocted once again the dresses of dreams.

Hilary Presley is fashion editor. Email her at [email protected]