LOUVRE COUTURE Art and fashion exhibition Paris. Story by Eleonora de Gray, Editor-in-Chief of RUNWAY MAGAZINE. Photos: RUNWAY.
A Dazzling Dialogue Between Fashion and Art
Paris is no stranger to grand exhibitions, but the Louvre has truly outdone itself with “Louvre Couture: Art and Fashion”—a breathtaking marriage of haute couture and French decorative arts. Curated by the brilliant Olivier Gabet, this exhibition takes visitors on a journey through the history of art and fashion, weaving together the visionary imaginations of modern designers and the historic eras that inspired them.
Located in the Richelieu wing of the museum, the exhibition spans nearly 9,000 square meters, immersing visitors in a vibrant, creative dialogue between over a hundred fashion masterpieces and the Louvre’s permanent collection of decorative arts. The result? A masterclass in how fashion and art are intrinsically linked through craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless beauty.
A Tapestry of Fashion and History
From the intricate tapestries of the Middle Ages to the opulence of Napoleon III’s salons, every room becomes a stage where art and fashion play off one another. For instance, John Galliano’s spectacular Dior gown finds its perfect setting amidst the splendor of the Napoleon III apartments, while Karl Lagerfeld’s Chanel creations share space with medieval tapestries, as if in whispered conversation with the past.
The exhibition doesn’t follow a chronological pathway; instead, it invites visitors to wander freely, creating their own journey through history and imagination. Precious medieval artworks—gold, ivory, and gemstones—find their modern counterparts in couture gowns that reflect their grandeur. Renaissance armor and ceramics inspire bold designs, while the exuberance of 19th-century décor is echoed in vivid colors and audacious silhouettes.
A Global Celebration of Fashion
Curated with an eye for both history and innovation, “Louvre Couture” features works from 45 iconic fashion houses and designers, ranging from the archival treasures of Cristóbal Balenciaga to the futuristic creations. Highlights include:
- Paris: Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel, Hermès, Jean Paul Gaultier, Schiaparelli
- Milan: Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Gucci, Prada, Jeremy Scott for Moschino, and Bottega Veneta
- Rome: Fendi
- London: Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, and Erdem
- New York: Thom Browne and Rick Owens
- Tokyo: Undercover
The exhibition also pays homage to final collections by fashion legends such as Gianni Versace and Karl Lagerfeld, reminding us of their indelible impact on the industry.
The Visionary Behind It All
At the heart of this ambitious project is Olivier Gabet, director of the Louvre’s Decorative Arts Department. A historian and true fashion aficionado, Olivier Gabet has curated an exhibition that not only showcases the aesthetic brilliance of couture but also highlights the enduring influence of craftsmanship.
Olivier Gabet’s vision is clear: fashion is not an isolated art form but a continuum, deeply rooted in the cultural and artistic history of its time. By placing couture pieces alongside tapestries, bronzes, porcelains, and other artifacts, the exhibition creates a rich tapestry of connections that is both intellectually and emotionally compelling.
A Grand Finale in Style
The exhibition culminates in a gala-worthy event: the Grand Dîner du Louvre, sponsored by Visa Infinite. With 30 tables auctioned off to raise one million euros, this glamorous evening promises to cement the exhibition’s place as a landmark cultural moment.
A Must-See Experience
“Louvre Couture” is more than an exhibition—it’s an invitation to view fashion as part of a larger artistic dialogue. It challenges us to see couture not as fleeting seasonal trends but as enduring works of art, stitched together with history and imagination.
Whether you’re a fashion connoisseur, an art historian, or simply someone who revels in the beauty of human creativity, Louvre Couture is more than an exhibition—it’s a revelation. It celebrates the genius of designers who’ve drawn inspiration from centuries of artistry, showcasing how the past continues to shape the future. Opened on January 24, 2025, this once-in-a-lifetime experience invites you to step into a world where couture and craftsmanship transcend time. Witness history reimagined, and prepare to be truly transformed.
