"Christian Lacroix Forever"?

(July 8th, 2009)-

Yesterday in Paris, Christian Lacroix presented what will most likely be his final haute couture collection—at least until the designer finds a financial backer that will prevent the dissolution of his company. Lacroix was recently forced to cut his staff from 124 employees to a skeleton crew of 12 due to a serious decrease of orders in the last year. The world’s declining economy had obvious effects on Lacroix’s fashion house as it has on many talented & much celebrated names throughout the industry.

With little money to produce anything (let alone the tedious detailing that is required for high caliber garments necessary for couture standards),  Lacroix utilized his friends & talents who have been devoted to the artist since his launch in the 80’s to assist him in creating yesterday’s collection. Amazingly, Lacroix presented a thoughtful assortment that was as wearable as it was forward looking. Lacroix’s trademark style which celebrates a very French & feminine silhouette remained apparent, but his diminutive color pallet allowed this collection to seem much more approachable than what has been seen in previous seasons on his runways. Not armed with his usual explosive color palette, Lacroix instead focused attention by accenting the navy’s & blacks with gold embellishments, as well as beaded & jeweled brocades.  Lace & tulle played an essential role in the show to provide the whimsical elements that are often exhibited with Lacroix’s designs.

You cannot help but surmise that Lacroix’s garments are truly born on the sketching pad. Lacroix translates the same free hand gesturing in fabric as he has imagined with a graphite pencil months previous. An artist who has been well received throughout many years is facing a most terrible situation that has become all too common in these times & in fashion as a matter of course. Lacroix celebrated his emotional & potentially final finale with tears & thanks to the devoted staff & fans that have followed him for the last 22 years.  His final wishes were graphically pronounced when a banner dropped from the ceiling as he made his curtain call that said “Christian Lacroix Forever”!

-Kai Baukol