Attention fashion history buffs! The "Mémoire d'une élégante"fashion exhibition runs from November 6 to 25, 2023, in the majestic setting of the 16th arrondissement town hall in Paris. This free retrospective, conceived by lecturer Laetitia Hedde in collaboration with the Palais Galliera, plunges us into the golden age of Parisian haute couture, through the eyes of a first saleswoman in a luxury House, like a page from a well-known old novel by Émile Zola.
This installation illustrates the singular and fabulous story of Françoise, a resident of the 16th arrondissement. For over four decades, she devoted her life to two of France's leading fashion houses: Lanvin and Chanel. Her precious archives and memoirs make up the"Mémoire d'une élégante" exhibition, a true testament to her passion for fashion.
As first saleswoman, Françoise played an essential role in the fashion houses. Her advice and expertise seduced the greatest French and American families, and even the first ladies of France. Recognized in her own right, she promoted elegance as a fashion heroine whose exquisite taste was celebrated.
The exhibition features an important collection of vintage photographs, alongside everyday objects such as fashion magazines, Guerlain perfume bottles, jewelry, work clothes, designer evening gowns, handbags and shoes. The retrospective tells the story of an era when fashion was a true art of living, through the wardrobe of an elegant woman.
"Mémoire d'une élégante" takes you back in time to an era when elegance and grace seemed immutable. The exhibition pays tribute to Françoise's legacy and that of all the women who have marked the history of Parisian haute couture.
A must-see fashion/culture event in November!
Dates and Opening Time
From November 6, 2023 to November 25, 2023
Location
16th district town hall
71, avenue Henri Martin
75116 Paris 16
Prices
Free
Official website
mairie16.paris.fr
