Lanvin and the Elbaz Effect

The oldest surviving design house in France, Lanvin, was born of the same humble beginnings as other noted couturiers including Chanel and Schiaparelli. Originally a milliner, Jeanne Lanvin started her base of operations at 22 Rue du Faubourg Saint Honore; where the house still resides. The house of Lanvin saw it’s heyday in the 1920’s and has successfully produced everything from its original hats to perfumes, as well as a men’s collection and jewelry. To this day Lanvin remains as exclusive as it did in the early 20^th century and while it may have been quite obscure as of late, Artistic Director Alber Elbaz is enjoying a revitalization of the brand. Elbaz’s eye for new classics is right in line with Lanvin’s early easy-chic dresses, and one can tell that he cares for the brand like a mother would care for a child. It is quite apropos then that the Lanvin logo in use today is a portrait by Paul Iribe of Jeanne and her daugther Marguerite; the original inspiration for this storied fashion house.