Christian Lacroix

Perhaps he yearned to do more than just revive a legendary fashion house; maybe he sought to establish his own iconic brand with equal success. Or perhaps he simply desired to provide a platform for exceptional creative talents to showcase their innovative ideas. Whatever his motivation, Bernard Arnault, the renowned savior of the 'Dior' brand and Chairman of LVMH, achieved his goal. Just as financier Marcel Boussac revitalized Christian Dior in 1947, Arnault's intervention four decades later propelled Christian Lacroix to the summit of French haute couture with a single collection, setting international fashion trends for years to come. In the late 1980s, the French fashion industry faced a crossroads. The brash American style clashed with the austere Japanese minimalism, prompting a demand for elegant yet discreet fashion that exuded luxury without flaunting it. The glory days of traditional French couture had waned. Born in Arles in 1951, Christian Lacroix boldly blended the vibrant spirit of southern France with the opulent aesthetics of past eras. Embracing global influences, he infused his creations with the coveted French sophistication, ushering in a new era of couture. However, such exceptional craftsmanship came at a steep price - quality came with a matching tagline: 'The more luxurious, the better'. Catering primarily to an affluent international clientele, Lacroix's brand expanded into children's wear, men's collections, perfumes, and a second line. Despite these efforts, the fashion house struggled to turn a profit for two decades. Enter the astute entrepreneur Arnault, who, unsatisfied with mediocrity, took decisive action. In 2005, without consulting Christian Lacroix, he offloaded the 'Christian Lacroix' brand. Though Lacroix continued as the creative force behind the brand, he simultaneously launched a new venture named XCLX, pouring his creative essence into this project. In 2009, the once-glamorous haute couture house of 'Christian Lacroix' met its demise. Post-bankruptcy, Christian Lacroix severed ties with the company, while the 'Christian Lacroix' brand underwent a renaissance, refocusing on home décor. Embracing the vivid color palette and eclectic style synonymous with its namesake, the brand expanded to include licensed stores and fragrances. While Christian Lacroix no longer helms his eponymous haute couture label, his artistic prowess remains in high demand. His imaginative touch is evident in opera costumes, hotel interiors, French streetcar designs, and Air France uniforms. Additionally, he has launched a successful perfume line with Avon, and serves as a creative consultant for the French Mint. Despite the twists and turns of his fashion journey, Christian Lacroix's timeless blend of cultural influences, rich textures, and Southern French exuberance continues to captivate audiences worldwide, ensuring his legacy thrives beyond the confines of a fashion house.