Jeanne Lanvin's daughter Marguerite was born in 1897, a fascinating source of inspiration for her mother. Jeanne created dresses for Marguerite's dolls, then clothes for Marguerite herself. A dye works was created in the city of Nanterre, outside Paris. It was here that the famous Lanvin blue was created, inspired by a Fra Angelico painting with which Jeanne was smitten.

Jeanne Lanvin's art is rich in historical references. Antique motifs were restyled by her embroidery workshops, while ample 18th century dresses provided inspiration for her famous "de style" dress.

Inspiration

The sportswear pieces are structured using hi-tech, futuristic techniques, bringing a hint of luxury and sophistication. Nylon is worked in a very fine, almost transparent quality worn against the skin. Doucle-sided stitched parkas are worn like silk shirts, accessorized with a tie. Precious versions are covered with toches of python skin, cut as thin as paper and decorated with internal cords to give added texture. In the same spirit, a jacket is cut from leather so fine it is worn as a shirt. Jeans opt for a super skinny cut and trousers inspired by ski pants are fitted at the waist, rounded at the knee and flared slightly to raw hems.