La vie en Lanvin

Label Overview

Jeanne Lanvin founded her label in 1889, starting out as a milliner and later dressing Paris’s upper class. The company built a name with ultrafeminine clothing, marked by elaborate trimmings like embroidery and beading, as well as its popular fragrances. After a period of decline at the end of the twentieth century, Lanvin found new financial and critical success with the 2001 arrival of designer Alber Elbaz , who is frequently lauded for his technical skill and innate sense of what women want to wear. Today, it’s the oldest French fashion house in operation. And while it encompasses menswear, it is best loved among editors and celebs for exquisitely made womenswear. Duchesse satin, cocktail-length frocks (often with one shoulder), dressed-up cigarette pants, and volume experimentation are signatures.

Lanvin Spring 2011 RTW Shows

“I truly believe Alber Elbaz is the greatest living designer today. When he does his version of the little black dress, you can be sure that it is something you can wear forever. He is obsessed with details, draping and clothes that can be powerful and feminine at the same time.”

—Julie Gilhart The Dallas Morning News