LOUVRE COUTURE: Objets d’art, objets de mode brings together iconic fashion pieces by designers ranging from Cristóbal Balenciaga to Iris van Herpen with masterpieces from the Decorative Arts department of the Louvre.
New Louvre exhibition creates a unique dialogue between masterpieces from the museum’s Decorative Arts department and iconic fashion pieces from designers like Cristóbal Balenciaga and Iris van Herpen, spanning from 1960 to 2025. Covering an area of approximately 9,000 square meters, the exhibition showcases 100 silhouettes and accessories that combine the history of fashion with decorative arts, craftsmanship, and style. These items have been borrowed from 45 renowned fashion houses and designers, many of which are being displayed for the first time.
Fashion and art are deeply intertwined, and this exhibition delves into their shared sources of inspiration and historical roots. The Louvre’s extensive collections, ranging from ancient reliefs to 18th-century paintings, have long influenced the world of fashion. The museum itself serves as an endless source of inspiration for designers, becoming a wellspring of creativity.
Although clothing is not typically exhibited at the Louvre, textiles and costumes are always present in its galleries, particularly in the Decorative Arts department, which focuses on large tapestries and textiles. The exhibition highlights how these works have inspired some of the greatest fashion creations and continue to do so today.
Curated with a poetic touch by Nathalie Crinière, the exhibition avoids a traditional route, instead blending art and fashion into an immersive journey. Visitors can explore themes such as Byzantium, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Grand Siècle, and the 19th century.
Each section pairs historical artifacts with fashion pieces, such as golden treasures from Byzantium, mirrored runways showcasing medieval influences, richly decorated ceramics, and opulent armors. LOUVRE COUTURE. Objets d’art, objets de mode also stands out with the grandeur of Napoleon III’s apartments, celebrating the splendor of 19th-century fashion alongside magnificent decor.
This extraordinary exhibition invites viewers to rediscover art through the lens of contemporary fashion, offering new perspectives on the artistry behind both worlds.
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