Christian Lacroix

Christian Lacroix

The Label

In the late 80's, fashion reporters clocked the rapid success of Lacroix. Studying Art History with dreams of becoming a museum curator or costume designer, Lacroix fell into fashion by chance. He was an assistant at Hermes, collaborated with the couturier of the Tokyo Imperial Court, and then joined the House of Patou in 1981. Five years later, he launched his own label with the bouffant, or "pouf," a milestone in fashion history. His label, regarded as "one of the fastest growing brands in the LVMH universe" has spawned a line of perfume, linens, and children's clothing. In 2002, Lacroix was appointed Artistic Director of the House of Pucci, which, since his arrival, has been very successful.

The Look

Unapologetically glamarous, dramatic, and expensive-looking. Lacroix came to epitomize the 80's through his use of sumptuous fabrics (velvet, satin, taffeta) and overlapping patterns (patchwork, stripes). His followers described his signature look as having "panache" or "gaiety," while minimalists (though there were very few in the 80's) preferred to see his ornate bustiers and opera capes left to the stage.

Official Website

christianlacroix.com