Discover the creative genius of designers
from three legendary French fashion houses
as they talk about their work and process.
Interviewed by Pamela Golbin, Curator
of Twentieth-century and Contemporary
Fashion at the Musée de la Mode et du
Textile in Paris. Golbin recently organized
the exhibition Balenciaga Paris and
authored the book of the same name,
which she presented at FIAF earlier this year.
Presented as part of Fashion Month at FIAF. |
Véronique Nichanian joined French luxury brand Hermès as Artistic Director of men’s ready-to-wear in January 1988. Later that year, her first collection at Hermès earned her the City of Paris Grand Prix of Creative Art. Prior to Hermès, Véronique Nichanian worked with Italian couturier Cerruti for twelve years after graduating from the Ecole de la Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in 1976, eventually becoming co-manager of the men’s collections. One of the few women to design collections for men, Nichanian enjoys the technical aspects of fashion and is passionate about details, exquisite materials, and colors—qualities that characterize the Hermès spirit.
“I don’t make any compromises, because I want excellence.”
—Véronique Nichanian |
Bruno Frisoni
became Creative Director of Roger Vivier in 2004, following in the footsteps of the legendary footwear designer whose Pilgrim shoe adorned with its iconic buckle graced the feet of Catherine Deneuve in Belle de jour. Born in France to Italian parents, Frisoni began his career working for designers such as Jean-Louis Scherrer, Lanvin, and Christian Lacroix, and later went on to work with Yves Saint Laurent. Frisoni launched his own shoe collection in 1999. At Roger Vivier, Frisoni has reinvigorated the brand by updating signature Vivier motifs—like the buckle and the Shock Heel—and incorporating them into his modern designs.
“…I soon developed a passion for accessories and especially for shoes. You just carry a bag with you whereas a shoe is part of you.”
—Bruno Frisoni |
Olivier Theyskens was named Artistic Director for Nina Ricci in November 2006. The Belgian-born designer dropped out of La Cambre Art School in Brussels to launch his own label in 1997 at the age of 20. Moving in his collections from an uncompromising and radical design to a more romantic and moody spirit, Theyskens revealed a singularly personal and essential style. After presenting nine collections under his own name, he joined the legendary House of Rochas in 2002 as Artistic Director. In 2005, he was a star Honoree at Fashion Group International’s Night of Stars. In 2006, he was named Best International Designer by the Council of Fashion Designers of America.
“I want to create a cool girl paradise at Nina Ricci, something suitable for women from Manhattan to Paris to Tokyo.”
—Olivier Theyskens |
