Farewelling Lacroix
July 9th 2009 03:50
When the economy first began its decline, it appeared that luxury brands were to remain relatively unscathed. And then the unthinkable happened, and Chanel cut jobs. Now, it seems one of the godfathers of fashion is also feeling the effects of the GFC, with this week’s Christian Lacroix show being dubbed as his last. It appears even the mighty have fallen.
Tears and hugs were an odd addition to the fashion show, which is being touted as his last until the brand’s finances are back in order. Lacroix launched insolvency proceedings in late May and it is looking likely that the house will close its doors at the end of this month. In both a tragic and triumphant move, money at the designer label was so tight that almost everyone involved in Tuesday's show agreed to work for free to make it happen. It helps to have friends in high places of course, and to pull the show off, a prestigious embroiderer worked for free, a high-end shoe brand donated the models' heels and the show’s makeup artists and hairdressers also worked for free.
Although the somber shades of black and navy that dominated Lacroix's winter 2010 collection projected somewhat of a gloomy feel - not helped by the fashionistas seen breaking down and wiping their eyes after the show – it seems an impending end only helped add to his popularity. Renowned for their fickleness, nearly all of the 24 looks were treated to rowdy applause from fashion crowd in attendance
The fashion genius’ final collection demonstrated what the man knows and does best, with Lacroix's signature tone-on-tone embroidery, black lace, draping and incredible beadwork. The models matched the mood perfectly, having been described as like trophy wives at a mafia funeral – although does that make Lacroix fashion mafia? Hmmm.
Regardless of the association and less than shining outlook for the future, the man himself is remaining optimistic, saying the death of the house would mark a new beginning and that the label would rise again. He told Associated Press Television News in a backstage interview. ""I can't think this is the end. It's the beginning of something, I hope."
I think I speak for all fashionistas when I say we hope so too. After all, what hope is there for the likes of little old me who sadly is still aspiring to own my own piece of Lacroix when even those who already can afford it, and those who create it, are unable to keep it afloat?
Tears and hugs were an odd addition to the fashion show, which is being touted as his last until the brand’s finances are back in order. Lacroix launched insolvency proceedings in late May and it is looking likely that the house will close its doors at the end of this month. In both a tragic and triumphant move, money at the designer label was so tight that almost everyone involved in Tuesday's show agreed to work for free to make it happen. It helps to have friends in high places of course, and to pull the show off, a prestigious embroiderer worked for free, a high-end shoe brand donated the models' heels and the show’s makeup artists and hairdressers also worked for free.
Although the somber shades of black and navy that dominated Lacroix's winter 2010 collection projected somewhat of a gloomy feel - not helped by the fashionistas seen breaking down and wiping their eyes after the show – it seems an impending end only helped add to his popularity. Renowned for their fickleness, nearly all of the 24 looks were treated to rowdy applause from fashion crowd in attendance
The fashion genius’ final collection demonstrated what the man knows and does best, with Lacroix's signature tone-on-tone embroidery, black lace, draping and incredible beadwork. The models matched the mood perfectly, having been described as like trophy wives at a mafia funeral – although does that make Lacroix fashion mafia? Hmmm.
Regardless of the association and less than shining outlook for the future, the man himself is remaining optimistic, saying the death of the house would mark a new beginning and that the label would rise again. He told Associated Press Television News in a backstage interview. ""I can't think this is the end. It's the beginning of something, I hope."
I think I speak for all fashionistas when I say we hope so too. After all, what hope is there for the likes of little old me who sadly is still aspiring to own my own piece of Lacroix when even those who already can afford it, and those who create it, are unable to keep it afloat?
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