Creative director extraordinaire, Alber Elbaz, has stepped down from his post at the famed Parisian fashion house, Lanvin. In his fourteen year tenure, Elbaz single-handedly revived the brand, making it a favorite both on the red-carpet and off. His charm and passion for design comes thru in his clothes.
Years ago, Lanvin did a collaboration with H&M. I remember waking up super early on a cold Saturday morning, to wait in line at H&M at 58th Street. The line was not as long as I expected. This is Alber - affordable Alber! Why are there not more people in this line?
I got my wristband, and went back at the designated time to shop. Lanvin transformed H&M - quirky drawings by the designer decorated the space. Iconic ruffle one shoulder dresses and illusion jeweled necklines were abundant. I left with two dresses, chicly clothed in a garment bag decorated in Lanvin characteur drawings, feeling special, part of the Alber club.
In 2014, I was prepping for a shoot and had to pick-up at hat at the Lanvin store on Madison.
While waiting for the hat to be wrapped up, Meryl Streep walks into the shop. She was there to meet with Alber. The brand designed her outfit for the Academy Awards that season. A long time friend Streep recently presented Mr. Elbaz with the FGI Superstar award, bestowed for being 'revolutionary' in his craft.
Today, we shed a tear (a black grosgrain trimmed tear), and look forward to what comes next for Lanvin and Alber Elbaz.
image via FashionTimes.com, video via NYTimes.com
