Fashion Blog » You're My Obession: The House of Lanvin

One reason I love to blog is that I have a captive audience of readers to whom I can air my ideas, theories and whims.  Here is my current obsession—and for once it has to do directly with fashion: the House of Lanvin.

I wear the perfume (it smells like apricots) the famous ballet flats (so chic, so comfortable) and now I actually own a piece of their clothing.  Granted, it is just the world’s prettiest t-shirt and I was lucky enough to scoop it up 70% off at a Barney’s sale but hey, whatever it takes.  So why am I so enamored?  Excellent question.

Helmed by the insanely talented and Chaplin-esque Israeli born Alber Elbaz, Lanvin remembers its French roots, but is not one of those design houses that is so entirely Gallic that a quintessential American feels out of place in its designs.  I think the thing that truly draws my eye and my jealously guarded dollars to Lanvin though, is the deep femininity inherent in all its designs.

One of the few great couture houses started by a female designer, Lanvin retains a true understanding of women.  Founded in 1889 by Jeanne Lanvin, the insignia was and remains a mother and child duo.  Everything the house produces from the elegant but useful handbags (even the practical Michelle Obama occasionally carries one!) to the ribbon tied shoe boxes speaks to the deeply female side of me and I suspect many, many others.

However, the greatest example of the womanly understanding of the house is in the designs.  The clothes created under Elbaz are well known for their magical draping and construction.  More than one lucky starlet has twittered delightedly about feeling sexy yet being able to actually eat wearing a Lanvin gown.  Witness this pic of Thandie Newton looking glam yet actually happy in her Lanvin.

In more day to day life, the justly famous ballet flats are so charming and yet so useful, that I have worn them everywhere from shopping at Neiman Marcus to my son’s T-Ball games. I feel pretty when I put them on and then I forget about it and just get on with my life. And isn’t that what every woman needs?

Get them at Barney’s.

Thanks Alber, a blessing on your house.

Photo Info: by Joe Corrigan/Getty Images at instyle.com.

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for Lanvin clothing and beauty products.