Remembering Hubert de Givenchy

Post Hubert de Givenchy

On March 12, the world lost a fashion legend and true gentleman when Hubert de Givenchy passed away at the age of 91. Known for his elegant and ladylike clothes, Givenchy was the last of his generation of post-war French designers that gave new life to haute couture.  Evening dressHubert de Givenchy , Autumn-Winter 1968-69Gift of Mrs. Read More »

Designer costume jewelry: Chanel and Schiaparelli

Post 1950s, 1990s, 20th century, Accessory, Chanel, Elsa Schiaparelli, Jewelry

  Today's post investigates the costume jewelry associated with two renowned design houses: Schiaparelli and Chanel. As we discussed in our post on Kenneth Jay Lane's starburst brooch, costume jewelry became an important component of fashionable dress during the 1920s. Though it had long been possible to imitate the appearance of gold or precious stones Read More »

Do you want IT?

Post 1990s, 20th century, 21st century, Accessory, Bag, Chanel

In 1998, Chanel launched an understated new handbag. Based on the upside-down torso of a woman, this aerodynamic bag was called 2005. The sleek, lightweight 2005 bag was created to carry the venerable design house into the new century. Prior to the 2005 bag, Chanel had primarily produced quilted leather handbags in a variety of Read More »