Local Expert
Kate Cyr
Originally from a small town in upstate New York and most recently living in New York City, I transferred to Paris for work in April 2007. I'll admit it: I came to Paris convinced that no city could…
Originally from a small town in upstate New York and most recently living in New York City, I transferred to Paris for work in April 2007. I'll admit it: I came to Paris convinced that no city could compare to New York. But little by little, day by day, Paris is winning my heart as I discover its beautiful art and architecture, its fabulous food and the unique attitude of its residents. I'll share these winning discoveries here.
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An Italian in Paris
It's no secret, and probably even a bit of a cliche, that Paris is one of the world's fashion capitals. If your knowledge of fashion is less than world-class, get up to speed on the basics at the Musee des Arts decoratifs. The museum, located in the rue de Rivoli next to that other museum, is presenting a ongoing series of retrospectives of the careers of contemporary couturiers.
Currently on now through September 21, "Valentino, themes et variations', showcases recurrent themes in the Italian designer's fifty year career. From his first couture show in Rome to his final collection presented in Paris in January 2008, Valentino's designs combine romanticis, modernity and classicism. According to the museum's website, Valentino himself acknowledged that he was not an innovator; he sought elegance rather than style in his designs. Case in point: Jackie Kennedy chose Valentino for the wardrobe that marked end of her period of mourning, and wore a Valentino for her wedding to Aristotle Onassis.
The exhibit is organized by theme: the first floor is about volume, line and texture in a minimal palette: black, white and the signature Valentino red, while the second floor has flower and animal prints and geometrics.