You wouldn’t have thought that the evolution of modern woman
could be played out so eloquently in lace and Lycra, but that’s exactly what
Lingerie Française showcases for the public. Celebrating over 100 years of
French lingerie design at the modestly chic London Film Museum, the exhibition
reveals revolution not just in society through the ages but in lingerie through
the eras. Never has such luxury told such a vivid story of emerging strength
and rebirth. To kick off this fabulous event Chartwell were given a personal
tour round the exhibition by curator and creator of the collection and the book
Lingerie Française, Catherine Ormon. Catherine unravelled the rich history
behind French lingerie and walked us through the stunning innovations in design
that reflected the time of creation. A particular Chartwell favourite was the
Simone Perele ‘Le Petal’, an iconic and timeless piece from the 1970s,
tantalisingly sheer in luxuriant aqua. After the exhibition we were lucky
enough to speak to Mary Cameron, the Managing Director in the UK of Chantelle
who were exhibiting some of their gorgeous archive pieces. The brand dates back
to the turn of the century and still continues to be a staple in the discerning
lingerie lover’s closet.
When we asked Mary about the return to classic styles in
lingerie of late she replied: “I think that the popularity of shows such as Mad
Men and movies that go back to those eras, even Downton Abbey can make a
difference to the trends in the market.” As the light faded over Covent Garden,
press, PR and bloggers alike descended for divine canapés, a glass of bubbly or
two and more guided tours of the exhibition as well as a titillating striptease
hologram showing French lingerie through the ages. The crowd seemed to fuse
immediately; familiar faces chatted animatedly about the beautiful exhibited
pieces and the fabulous Catherine who made it all possible. Several empty
glasses and bare cocktail sticks later and the event drew to a close, leaving
us seriously lusting after classic lingerie.
By Guest Blogger: Maddie Saunders
By Guest Blogger: Maddie Saunders
