Louvre Couture: Fashion, Art, and Furniture
For the first time in the Louvre’s 231 year history, fashion is being showcased within the hallowed halls. The talk of Paris, the exhibition titled “ Louvre Couture. Art and fashion: statement pieces” opened on January 24th and will run until July 21st. With over 100 designs and accessories carefully placed throughout their galleries, the museum is drawing the eye to the dynamic growth of the decorative arts and popular culture impact of fashion. All of these designs are from the 1960s to present and incorporate all of the major fashion houses internationally. A fundraising gala will also be held in March, connecting the event to the Met Gala famously taking place around the same time.
Making this exhibition especially significant and unique, The Louvre is not simply showing designs. Instead, each piece is carefully displayed amongst the 9,000 square meters of Decorate Arts galleries. This illustrates how the historical art and style have directly inspired the world’s most sought after designers and design houses. The classic French houses such as Dior, Givenchy, and Chanel are included. Excitingly, many international houses are also showcased including Dries Van Noten, Erdem, and many more.
Notable Moments
A few notable moments include a Chanel jacket designed by Karl Lagerfeld. The embroidery features patterns drawn from a chest of drawers by cabinet maker Mathieu Criaerd. A Dolce
& Gabbana dress draws inspiration from Venice mosaics, and a baroque painting of Louis XIV paired with a silk Dior gown showcasing the Sun King Motif. In the Renaissance spaces that feature finely detailed armor, a handmade brass Schiaparelli suit is thoughtfully placed.
“It’s so important to see fashion elevated to the highest level at some of the greatest museums in the world,” says American designer Thom Browne.
Inspiring Interiors
As the visitor moves through the exhibition many visual connections between the garments and the art are obvious and striking. Colors, material, and style can be seen mirrored throughout the fashion looks. In a few cases the inspiration is even more direct. For example the previously described Karl Lagerfeld jacket which emulates the blue and white chest of drawers. Iris van Herpen’s architectural dresses were crafted after meticulous research into Gothic cathedrals. Footwear designer Christian Louboutin works only minutes from the Louvre and regularly stops in for inspiration. His work is found throughout the exhibit.
For French speakers, on February 10th a live video showcase of the space will be provided including a guided tour by the Louvre’s Decorative Arts curator, Olivier Gabet. You can view it here. If any of our clients have the unique opportunity to visit this exhibition, we would love to hear your thoughts! If we can help you find pieces for your own home that showcase your fashion and style, please reach out or check out our newest arrivals.