It’s an incredible 70 years since Christian Dior wowed the world with his ultra-femme ‘New Look’, and to mark the anniversary, Musée des Arts Décoratifs is hosting the lavish Christian Dior, couturier du rêve (until 7 Jan, 2018).
Curators have borrowed from the closets of the haute house, private collectors and global museums (The Met, V&A et al) to present a rich and comprehensive showcase of garms, many of which have never before been shown in Paris. Browse ravishing CD originals, gowns worn by the princesses of Hollywood and Europe, and creations by the label’s illustrious roll call of designers, from Yves Saint Laurent to John Galliano, Raf Simons and Maria Grazia Chiuri.
If all these ravishing frocks have put a pep in your shopping step, here are a few modern-day ateliers to rinse that AmEx. Each can be visited independently, or if you want to dive deeper, book a ‘Made in France’ jaunt led by the stylistas at Secrets of Paris. Shop to it!
Jay Ahr
Pronounced J-R (after the initials of founder-designer Jonathan Riss), this fabulous boutique carries a line in sculptural, drapey, vampish, dress-to-kill gowns and daywear that’ll leave a trail of tongues. There’s couture or off-the-peg, while statement jewels and bags complete the look. jayahr.com
Martin Grant
At once razor-sharp and bang on the money, Aussie and longtime Parisian Martin’s demi-couture is sexy, and feminine. The inimitable Cate Blanchett is Grant’s muse, plus he’s dressed an impressive coterie of stars, from Juliette Binoche to Tilda Swinton. martingrantparis.com
Dimitri Bottier
Working from within the dapper confines of Crockett & Jones in La Madeleine, master shoemaker Dimitri has men from across the world walking right to his door for bespoke beauties in luxurious leathers. His elegant, signature no-seam escarpin takes 4-6 months to create; should you be impatient, off-the-shelf styles are also available, but we think they’re worth the wait. dimitribottier.com
Lorenz Bäumer
This jazzy joaillier uses only the finest stones and metals for his out-there, refined and witty designs. If they’re good enough for Princess Charlène of Monaco’s tiara then they’re good enough for us. Custom, and by appointment only. lorenzbaumer.com
Inès de la Fressange
It’s not quite couture, but channelling an atelier vibe, model Parisienne Inès’ bazaar peddles a pastiche of her own creations and collaborations, from floaty frocks and sunnies to homeware, and togs for sprogs and dogs. Fashion to give you and your home that certain je ne sais quoi… inesdelafressange.fr
For more Paris shopping haunts, get your manicure mitts on a LUXE Paris guide…
