War torn by Lanvin

While I've always merely glanced through Lanvin's collection, this recently revealed pre-fall collection has got me intrigued! With the majority of the outfits being vaguely reminiscent of those in the 1930s to 50s, the silhouette of the dresses really serves to complement the female physique with a casual air of elegance and sophistication.





This dress with its exquisite beading and delicate tailoring of gauze seems to be a direct homage to Jeanne Lanvin, who was known for her way with embroidery and beading. Lanvin, a silent and reserved lady who always donned her trademark outfit of a black suit with minimal white details, seems to have been the inspiration for the muted color palette of the clothes too. The intensely attractive somber hues of grey, navy and teal also reflect the fashion color scheme circa post-ww1 and pre-ww2.

The gloves are gorgeous; it is one accessory I've always reallyy wanted to try, but never had the guts to. According to "A history of fashion" by Garland, evening gowns were accompanied by elbow length gloves, and day costumes were worn with short or opera-length gloves of fabric or leather. Either way, elbow length or not, I'll be on a lookout for them from now on!



I also read in everyone's favourite Wiki, that during the WW2, women were encouraged to wear simple suits with trousers, rather than skirts, for convenience and also due to the textile rationing. Popular female magazines even advised women on how to remake men's suits into smart outfits, since the men were in uniform and the cloth would otherwise sit unused. Imagine that!


And then we have the classic Grecian influence in these dresses, once again a signature of Lanvin. Gorgeous, really. Like the above dresses, the dusky colours allowed the textures and the fine detailling of the outfits to stand out brillantly.

Alber Elbaz, the current designer of the Lanvin house has definitely managed to capture the spirit of Lanvin in this collection. Mr Elbaz, you've got me hooked now. Guess I'll be waiting anxiously for your Lanvin collections to unveil in time to come!