 Alaïa/Kuramata @lesvisitesdemaud Building the bridge between fashion design and modern furniture, the Fondation Azzedine Alaïa presents “Lightness in Creation.” Capturing the delicate balance and profound synergy between Alaïa’s powerful, elegant haute-couture garments and Shiro Kuramata’s sleek, angular creations, offering a mesmerizing encounter through the intersection of fashion and design.  Alaïa/ Kuramata @lesvisitesdemaud Azzedine Alaïa, a passionate admirer of Kuramata’s otherworldly furniture designs, began collecting his pieces well before Kuramata’s passing in 1991. At this captivating exposition, you'll encounter dozens of works by both Alaïa and Kuramata, showcasing the dynamic interplay between their delicate, yet robust styles.  Alaïa/ Kuramata @lesvisitesdemaud Despite working in different mediums, Alaïa and Kuramata’s creations share many striking similarities. Kuramata aimed not just to defy gravity with his designs, but to craft a world where gravity was entirely irrelevant.  Alaïa/ Kuramata @lesvisitesdemaud With Japanese simplicity in mind, Kuramata designed his floating, fluid pieces with simple materials, such as acrylic, glass, and metal. Not only did he find ways to experiment with matter and space, but also still managed to create functional pieces of furniture.  Alaïa/ Kuramata @lesvisitesdemaud Azzedine Alaïa had similar goals throughout his career. Shunning visual impurity, he sought to create dresses and garments with elegant silhouettes and ghost-like stitching. Additionally, Alaïa wanted to create garments that celebrate femininity and the timelessness of beauty. He sought for his pieces to become a part of the feminine human body, seamlessly blending the garment with the human soul.  Alaïa / Kuramata @lesvisitesdemaud It’s evident that the two artist’s designs both blur the lines between fabric and form. Alaïa’s iconic bandage dress clings to the body, slowly losing form and parachuting into a sumptuous white gown. Similarly, Kuramata’s Oba-Q lamp mimics the folds of sheer white fabric, levitating effortlessly over the ground. Both of these pieces blend artistry with illusion.  Alaïa / Kuramata @lesvisitesdemaud To see both Alaïa’s and Kuramta’s floating worlds in dialogue with one another, visit the Fondation Azzedine Alaia in the Marais. A tranquil, yet enchanting experience to get familiar with two artists awaits you.
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 Undoubtedly the pinnacle of luxury handbags, the Birkin has kept its status as one of the top items in the leather goods hierarchy. Favored by celebrities and socialites alike, the Birkin bag is a timeless piece and one of the most exclusive designs from the illustrious maison Hermès.  Founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès as a humble saddle workshop, this legendary fashion house boasts a rich and storied heritage in exquisite leather craftsmanship. Today, Hermès still works in the equestrian scene, artfully producing luxurious riding gear, bridles, and harnesses. As the house evolved, Hermès would pivot in new directions and begin crafting a variety of leather goods, from small accessories to jackets.  Hermès fashioned its first bag in the 1920s, followed by the Kelly bag in 1935, known by the same name as le sac à depèches. Designed on a whim, the Birkin didn’t come about until the mid 1980s, due to a fateful encounter on an evening flight from Paris to London.  British-French actress, singer, and style icon Jane Birkin boarded the flight and sat next to the Hermès chief executive, Jean-Louis Dumas. In addition to her chic style and effortlessly cool allure, Jane was a busy mother of three daughters. Everywhere she went, she carried a large wicker basket of all her essentials. Upon placing her basket in the overhead compartment on the plane, her items spilled out of the unsecured bag all over the cabin.  This prompted a casual conversation between Jane and Jean-Louis. Not knowing he was an executive for Hermès, Jane said she had always been searching for the perfect tote or weekend bag without success, stating that not even Hermès made a suitable bag. Upon hearing this, Jean-Louis sought more of Jane’s feedback and began to sketch out a rough design for the “Birkin” on the airplane sick bag.  A few years later, the Birkin bag made its debut, with Jane Birkin receiving a special commemorative version that she often personalized with stickers and keyrings. With a quiet launch, the Birkin bag wasn’t an instant sensation. However, the bag’s popularity steadily grew throughout the ‘90s and into the 2000s. By the time the bag had made a memorable cameo in "Sex and the City" in 2001, the Birkin had firmly established itself as an iconic piece.  Now, the birkin can be found crooked on the wrist of a select few around the world. A symbol of status and wealth, as well as a bold fashion statement, the Birkin will never fail to leave a lasting impression. Whether you are looking to find your own bag or are simply admiring the products, you might be able to find something special at the Hermès Boutique in Paris. To visit the boutique:
24 Rue de Faubourg Saint-Honoré 75008 Paris  An integral part of the Cartier maison, the Trinity jewelry line has long been an influential item in the public scene since its birth in 1924. Uniquely, the Trinity ring is fashioned out of three interlocking rings, each in yellow, white, and rose gold, creating a brilliant mix of metal. Once glistening on the hands of Grace Kelly or Gary Cooper, the ring can still be seen today on famed figures like Kate Middleton to Kylie Jenner.  Now celebrating 100 years of the Trinity ring and collection this year, Cartier has released a completely new commemorative version with a bold and modern twist: La Trinity de Forme Coussin. Now you can elevate your jewelry collection by adding this squared, geometric version of the Trinity ring.  Although interlocking rings can be traced back to Celtic or Russian origins, this triple gold, mixed metal design was brought to life in France. Inspired in part by the French poet and playwright, Jean Cocteau, the Trinity was initially influenced by the cosmic rings of Saturn. Cocteau was enamored with the ring belted planet, desiring a piece of jewelry that mimicked Saturn’s system. Passing this message along to jewelry master Louis Cartier, the Trinity would soon be born.  For Maison Cartier, the Trinity ring was a much different approach compared to their previous work. Even though the Trinity has an elaborate composition, the design itself exudes a simple elegance, first created without the presence of diamonds. This would quickly become an iconic and distinct design from Cartier, perfectly encapsulating an unmistakable French allure.  Within the Trinity, the theme of three interlocking pieces is strong. Although there is no strict interpretation of the ring, it can be said the pieces represent the past, present and future as well as love, loyalty and friendship. Buyers have even found ways to make the trio their own, showcasing how the ring can represent familial bonds and be passed down through generations. Even though Cartier has continued to release sister lines of jewelry, like the Love or Juste un Clou collections, none have remained as classic or successful as the Trinity. The ring’s three piece composition allows for there to be hundreds of variations, all while remaining true to the first design’s silhouette and integrity. Whether or not you seek to bring a Trinity ring home or admire from afar, Cartier’s Trinity is both a piece of artwork and a classic investment. With 100 years of timeless elegance, the Trinity ring remains a global style icon. Its enduring charm and sophistication ensure it will continue to captivate fashion and jewerly lovers for generations to come.   @lesvisitesdemaud At the École des Arts Joailliers in Paris, step into a world of theatrical splendor dedicated to the Comèdie Française at their newest exhibition. With exquisite jewelry dating back to the early 18th century, you are destined to be dazzled with these historical pieces. Along with the jewelry which takes the main stage, you will find an extraordinary pairing of manuscripts, paintings, and costumes that all truly set the scene.  @lesvisitesdemaud Located in the Palais Royal in Paris, the Comèdie Française has been enchanting its audiences since the institution was founded by King Louis XIV in 1680. Rich in history, as well as in theatrical costumes, the Comédie Française has had no shortage of jewelry that will catch your eye.  @lesvisitesdemaud A wide variety of plays from diverse cultures and time periods calls for an equally grand selection of jewelry. At this exhibit, you'll discover pieces inspired by Ancient Greece, Northern Africa, and the Victorian Era, among others. The École des Arts Joailliers boasts a vast collection that celebrates this rich diversity, ensuring there is something to captivate every visitor.  @lesvisitesdemaud Although most pieces are costume jewelry, which are not crafted from real diamonds or metal, there is a striking symbolic value found in their aesthetic influence and historical significance. With the artisan’s goal to create pieces that appear as real jewels and precious metals on the stage, these pieces won’t fail to trick the mind with an expertly fashioned illusion.  @lesvisitesdemaud Oftentimes, actors were given creative liberty over what pieces of jewelry to wear on stage. Not only are these jewels a part of theatrical history, but also curated directly by those under the spotlight. In an effort to remain authentic to the play, to the time period, and the character, actors put much thought into their selections.  @lesvisitesdemaud Offering deeper insight into artistic direction, the exhibit features drawings and paintings that showcase the jewelry in action, alongside costumes and set pieces that complete the vision. If seeing the holy grail of theatrical jewelry is on your to-do list, visit the École des Arts Joailliers before September 1st. Catch a glimpse of these treasures before it's too late!  École des arts joailliers - Until 1st September
Hôtel de Mercy-d'Argenteau 16 Bis, Boulevard Montmartre 75009 Paris  One of the most important haute couture brands to show in Paris, Balenciaga has been turning heads since 1919. Despite Cristobal Balenciaga facing hardships after the house was founded in Spain, Balenciaga began modernizing fashion’s main stage after relocating to Paris in 1937.  Every great fashion house comes with a series of iconic looks and Balenciaga is no exception. Although the brand’s identity today has evolved significantly from its original ethos, Cristobal’s pieces continue to captivate both old and new fans.  One of Balenciaga’s most early, yet radical creations is the sack dress. In the 1950s, when most fashion houses favored garments that hugged the hips and promoted a tight hourglass figure, Balenciaga sought to relax typical tailoring. Instead, he opted for a loose, fluid form. Pushing past the status quo, Cristobal Balenciaga wanted to release women from constrictive dresses and provide a fashionable, yet comfortable alternative.  Another of Cristobal’s creations called upon his heritage: the infanta dress. The design was based upon the baroque portraiture of Diego Velázquez, the first painter in the court of Philip IV of Spain. Known for dramatic and intense compositions, Velàzquez painted portraits of royals in elaborate 17th century garments. Paying homage to the painter and the history of Spanish fashion, the infanta dress was born. With a dramatic waistline, tight fitting bodice, and unfurling skirt, the infanta dress was immensely popular.  Further in his career, Cristobal Balenciaga crafted the tulip dress. With a deconstructed shape, the tulip dress uses multiple layers of fabric to delicately unfold into the form of petals. Hugging the body, yet also delicately balancing negative space, this garment is a striking example of Balenciaga’s inventive mind and creative genius.  Continuing to play with broad, elegant garments, Balenciaga created the balloon silhouette in 1953. Fashioned into dresses, skirts, and jackets, these pieces redefined the feminine form in fashion. Not only would this look become a classic part of Balenciaga’s house, but would also become a permanent installation in the womenswear industry and influence many designers' creations in the future.  With a diverse history and an incredibly wide range of pieces and styles, Balenciaga has no shortage of garments to reflect on. Not only were these pieces pivotal in the house of Balenciaga, but also in how haute couture developed all throughout the mid and late 20th century. Cristobal Balenciaga’s complex world of fashion has not and never will fail to amaze.  Get lost in a handpicked vintage world at Heristoria, a new endeavor by LVMH found exclusively at la Samaritaine in Paris. Ranging from spirits to fashion to high jewelry, Heristoria is an all encompassing experience ready to take you by surprise. Whether you are a vintage fashion fan or an aficionado of the finer things in life, Heristoria’s perfect blend of heritage and history will certainly impress you.  Heristoria @lesvisitesdemaud With all pieces thoroughly documented, expertly authenticated, and preserved in pristine condition, la Samaritaine is ready for you to come and take a look. While also holding memories of the past, items are more than ready to be given a new life. In this ingeniously curated collection pulled from LVMH houses, you will find an impressive mix of artful bags, ready to wear items, and haute couture pieces.  @lesvisitesdemaud Today, you can find the Game Changers collection at Heristoria. Not only are these pieces remarkable in nature, but are also considered game changers for how they changed the fashion world at the time of their birth. This includes delicately sequined and bejweled Fendi baguettes, which symbolized the 'it bag' surge in the early 2000s. Looking further into the past, we find decorative Fendi pasta bags created by Karl Lagerfeld in the late 1990s.  Heristoria @lesvisitesdemaud In the high jewelry collection, discover a lineup from Chaumet and Fred, ranging from art deco-inspired pieces to timeless classics. Between rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, Heristoria has a piece for every jewelry fan. Likewise, for timepiece enthusiasts, the collection includes exquisite watches from both Zenith and Tag Heuer. With some rare and uncommon wristwatches, this collection will not disappoint.  Heristoria @lesvisitesdemaud For haute couture lovers, the selection of Givenchy dresses and skirts is a dream come true. Even if couture isn't your passion, you’ll find plenty of ready-to-wear pieces from Fendi and Kenzo, all waiting to be taken to their next home. Dive into a realm of fendi leopard print and signature monogram, or relax with a playful Kenzo floral jacket.  For a unique experience that bridges together the past, present, and the future, browse Heristoria’s living collection online or schedule a visit at La Samaritaine. With treasures that suit every taste and style, Heristoria ensures a captivating journey through ever-changing fashion history.   One of the most iconic designers of our time, Jean-Paul Gaultier has consistently been at the forefront of fashion since he opened his first shop in Paris in 1986. Creating clothes for both men and women, Gaultier sought to redefine the boundaries of typical fashion and blend diverse styles and backgrounds together.  Always interested in creating womenswear, Jean Paul Gaultier had a knack for fashion from a young age. By the age of 18, he had already secured an apprenticeship with Pierre Cardin, a leading designer at the time. Without ever having any formal schooling in fashion design, Gaultier was regarded as a prodigy for his keen self taught skills.  After a few apprenticeships and finding his own footing in the fashion industry, Gaultier released his first collection in 1976. In the 1980s, Gaultier began a menswear line as well. Creating some controversial looks, Gaultier released a series of skirts for men as well as the iconic cone bra and corset. Widely discussed in the world of fashion, these provocative stunts awarded Gaultier a leading position in ready to wear and celebrity fashion.  Gaining the attention of many, Gaultier started designing stage costumes for Madonna with his signature cone bra silhouette. Not long after, he would begin to design for many artistic performers, including Prince. At this time too, Jean Paul Gaultier began to rely heavily on his signature looks, drawing from marine aesthetics.  These commercial successes in his early career allowed for Jean Paul Gaultier to enter the fragrance industry in the early 1990s. As Gaultier’s brand began to expand throughout Europe and into the Americas, his high position in the fashion industry allowed him to enter the world of Haute Couture. Showing his first collection in 1997, Jean Paul Gaultier would soon become a fashion icon with his daring designs to come.  His first couture show was titled “Salon Atmosphere.” Bearing the same extravagance of his ready to wear brand, his couture shows took it to the next level. Combining his signature pieces and typical tailoring with decadent details, Gaultier’s first show was a huge success. As Gaultier continued to design couture, he was able to expand his brand globally throughout the Middle East and Asia.  Jean Paul Gaultier would continue to design couture for the rest of his career, until his 50th anniversary couture show in 2020. After having both huge artistic and commercial success, Jean Paul Gaultier retired from his namesake label. Handing off his brand to guest designers each season for couture, we now see how new minds are adding their own flair to Gaultier’s fashion house, while staying true to the original JPG vision.
 dover street market Paris @lesvisitesdemaud Last week, the newest installment of Dover Street Market unveiled its doors to the public in the historic and fashionable Marais district of Paris. Founded and curated by fashion power couple Rei Kawakubo and Adrian Joffe of Comme des Garçons, this small concept store franchise has redefined the retail landscape.  Dover street market Paris @lesvisitesdemaud Within a 17th century townhouse on the Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, Dover Street Market seeks to transcend the typical aspects of the shopping experience. Instead, a cultural center is coming to life, with spaces for art, installations, and performances. Additionally, the market seeks to nurture new and emerging fashion houses within the community and beyond, with the top floors of their location tailored into showroom spaces for growing brands.  Dover Street Market Paris @lesvisitesdemaud After stepping through the glass doors, you will be mesmerized by a unique fashion macrocosm, where pieces by esteemed houses including Loewe or Maison Margiela are mixed together with lesser known avant-garde brands such as Kiko Kostandinov or Craig Green. Dover Street Market doesn’t fail to pull together an all-encompassing collection that is fit for every fashion admirer.  Dover Street Market Paris @lesvisitesdemaud With a new garment, accessory, or fragrance surprise through each rounded passage, Dover Street Market presents its offerings on sleek white, gray, and aluminum furnishings. Creating an ambiance with serene, space-inspired background music, the interior combines Parisian elegance with a raw, industrial warehouse aesthetic. This distinct style effectively serves as a blank canvas for the real art: the clothes.  Dover Street Market Paris @lesvisitesdemaud As a strong part of the Comme des Garçons universe, you’ll be able to find almost every brand from Kawakubo’s intricate web of diffusion lines. Whether you love the artful runway pieces from the original line, playful ensembles from Comme des Garçons Shirt, or the experimental pieces from student lines like Junya Watanabe or Noir Kei Ninomiya, everything can be found under one roof.  Dover Street Market Paris @lesvisitesdemaud Along with the opening, a special exhibition including the work of Paolo Roversi is on display. Comme des Garçons by and for Paolo Roversi is teased in the courtyard, with the rest of the exposition tucked away in a subterranean gallery. Right off the courtyard, there is also a cafe so you can relax and refuel after a long day of shopping. Rose Bakery has an expertly appointed selection of baked goods and cafe beverages to satisfy every palette.  Dover Street Market Paris @lesvisitesdemaud Whether or not you peruse through to do some window shopping or engage in a bit of retail therapy, the staff won’t hesitate to help you make your fashion dreams come true. Playful pearled shoes by Simone Rocha, expertly woven leather by Bottega Veneta, and heavy distressed denim by Undercover—this location has it all. With cutting edge fashion, art, and culture, Dover Street Market will not fail to ignite your senses and inspire your soul.  Dover Street Market Paris @lesvisitesdemaud To visit the boutique:
DOVER STREET MARKET 35–37 Rue Des Frances-Bourgeois Paris, 75004  Brancusi @lesvisitesdemaud In the heart of Paris, step into Brancusi’s universe at the Centre Pompidou. With more than 120 works by the artist, you’ll be able to get a comprehensive view of Constantin Brancusi’s life, work and career. In all directions, you can find matte, wooden sculptures or shimmering, bronze-cast pieces that helped define Brancusi’s unique methods and bring forward a new era of modern sculpture.  Le Baiser @lesvisitesdemaud Originally from Romania, Constantin Brancusi studied art before arriving in Paris in 1904. The artist made the journey to France from Eastern Europe on foot and enrolled in school at the École Beaux Arts. Once established in the city, he set up his studio in Montparnasse on the Impasse Ronsin.  Brancusi @lesvisitesdemaud While going through the exposition, prepare to be mesmerized with a journey through Brancusi’s illustrious career. The first sculpture is one of his iconic roosters, symbolizing new beginnings and rebirth. Afterwards, you will lay eyes on some of Brancusi’s earlier works created under the mentorship of Augustin Rodin, such as the endearing Le Baiser.  Atelier de Brancusi @lesvisitesdemaud In addition to the vast amount of sculptures included in this exposition, immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of film, photos, and sketches from the artist. This gives a multifaceted glimpse into Brancusi’s creative process and how he incorporated various media into his artistic expression. Additionally, it shows his propensity to leave his pieces open to interpretation and contrast distinct binaries in line with the Dada movement.  Le Baiser Brancusi @lesvisitesdemaud Bouncing off of Brancusi’s playful style, you will be led through twisting and turning passages that immerse you in an environment of black and white color that imitates Brancusi’s monochrome style. Further down the path, you will encounter an authentic recreation of the artist’s Parisian Studio which was granted to France after the artist’s death. You have the once in a lifetime opportunity to view his real working set up, his sculpting tools used for direct carving, and videos of Brancusi at work.  Brancusi @lesvisitesdemaud The high floor of the Centre Pompidou serves as an excellent backdrop for Brancusi’s story. As the viewer, you have the chance to forge a connection with Brancusi’s work in a close, intimate setting. As the exhibition continues, you will see his pieces speckled in front of a Parisian landscape set with landmarks such as the Basilique du Sacre-Coeur. Either way, this exposition perfectly highlights Brancusi’s spectacular world in the most breathtaking way.  Brancusi @lesvisitesdemaud To visit the exposition: Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris, France  jardin japonais @lesvisitesdemaud Le Jardin d’Albert Kahn is hidden on the outskirts of the city of Paris, right in the heart of the suburb of Boulogne-Billancourt. Here, one will find the Musée Departmental d’Albert Kahn as well as a grandiose garden. Albert Kahn made a fortune working within the Parisian banking system. He worked his way up to become a principal associate at one of Europe’s most notable financial institutions. With his newfound wealth, Kahn purchased a large plot of land in Boulogne-Billancourt, where he would eventually create a 4.2 hectare scenic garden.  la serre tropicale @lesvisitesdemaud The garden itself is a place where many parts of the world come together to form an idyllic paradise within the busy city. Composed of Le Jardin Français, Le Village Japonais, Le Forêt Vosgienne, and more, this garden has it all.  At Le Village Japonais, one can find a traditional japanese garden with many winding paths, a trickling stream, and pavilion architectural features. This garden was in line with a subtle movement of the time period, which mixed European garden styles with distinct Japanese elements. In this garden, make sure to find the stone Japanese lanterns and sculptures, cross the red Guzei bridge over a gasp of koi, or climb to the apex of the hill for a stunning view of the entire garden.  Le jardin japonais @lesvisitesdemaud Strolling over to le Forêt Vosgienne, you will find yourself encapsulated in a forest that mimics the southern Vosges Mountains, not too far from where Albert Kahn spent his youth. Take a moment to relax or cool off in the shade under the canopy of trees.  La serre tropicale @lesvisitesdemaud Le Jardin Français showcases a typical 17th century French garden, defined by a geometrical path and surrounded by a carefully appointed assortment of delicate fruit trees. At the edge of the garden, you are able to take a look at the extensive greenhouse that houses a grand staircase under an abundance of natural light.  Le jardin japonais @lesvisitesdemaud In the early 1900s, Albert Kahn began to travel the world and sought to capture the likeness of different places on camera. Soon, his passion for travel led him to embark on another project: to capture all of the world’s places on film. Although the project was stopped before completion, the images are on view at the Musée Departmental. Khan’s project encapsulates many parts of the world and you can experience it here just as he intended.  Le jardin japonais @lesvisitesdemaud To visit the garden :
Les jardins d'Albert Kahn - Musée-Jardin 2, Rue du Port 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt |
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