Didier Ludot is seated at Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr, an auction house in Paris, with mannequins showcasing haute couture from his upcoming auction “Le Dernier Passage” (The Last Passage) in the background. This marks the end of an era for the renowned collector, as his vintage boutique, nestled under the arcades of the Royal Palace gardens, is closing after 50 years. As he bids farewell to Paris, fashion enthusiasts and collectors will have the opportunity to bid on January 30th for over 350 lots of luxury fashion signed by iconic designers like Christian Dior, Pierre Balmain, Pierre Cardin, Cristóbal Balenciaga, and Yves Saint Laurent.
Known for his discerning eye in selecting museum-quality pieces for his shop, Ludot is now equally meticulous in letting go of his collection without nostalgia. He looks forward to a minimalist retirement in Provence, shrugging off his vocation with a nonchalant attitude. Ludot has been a central figure in the Paris fashion scene since 1974, attracting designers, curators, collectors, Hollywood stylists, and celebrities to his boutique, including encounters with stars like Julia Roberts.
While he will miss the chance encounters and the tranquil location of his boutique away from the bustling Rue de Rivoli, Ludot finds comfort in parting ways with his collection amidst a changing world. He reflects on meeting elegant women and laments the decline in appreciation for true craftsmanship and heritage in French couture.
The upcoming auction features a significant number of pieces from Yves Saint Laurent’s final couture collection of 2002, a pivotal moment in Parisian fashion history. Additionally, there are elegant Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture pieces from Ludot’s clients up for auction. The event also includes creations from other designers like Jean-Louis Scherrer, showcasing the enduring allure of vintage couture on the red carpet.
Recent events like the Golden Globes have highlighted the resurgence of interest in couture, with celebrities donning archival pieces with style and grace. This renewed appreciation for couture’s timeless elegance and craftsmanship underscores its enduring appeal in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
Kylie Jenner made waves on the internet when she donned a vintage Versace chainmail outfit, while her mother Kris Jenner is a loyal customer of Didier Ludot. Notably, Nicole Kidman, another Golden Globes nominee, is also a client of Ludot. At the same event, Ariana Grande stunned in a butter-yellow Givenchy gown from 1966, and Anya Taylor-Joy turned heads in a blush pink Dior slip dress from 1998.
Ludot commends Kidman’s comfort and style in couture, contrasting it with the trend of people borrowing clothes instead of making their own fashion choices. He praises Helen Mirren and Catherine Deneuve, hinting at an upcoming auction of items from a renowned French actress. Ludot suggests investing in Valentino pieces from the 1960s for their timeless appeal.
Couture collector Sabine Getty recalls the joy of discussing fashion with Ludot and trying on exquisite gowns. Ludot’s attention to detail is evident as he perfectly fits Reese Witherspoon in a vintage Christian Dior gown, leading to her winning Best Actress in 2006. The auction Ludot is hosting offers a chance for non-celebrities to own couture pieces at more affordable prices, such as a Madame Grès dress from 1946 and a playful Christian Dior little black dress from 1959.
Among the more accessible lots are accessories like Roger Vivier pumps and Chanel suits from the 1990s, showcasing Ludot’s eye for timeless pieces. The auction promises a touch of glamour for those looking to add a hint of couture to their wardrobe.
The iconic suits featured in the images (on Claudia!) are valued at €1,500 – €3,000 each, significantly lower than the cost of a brand new ready-to-wear suit which is around £10,000. One of the final clients to visit the store was Peter Brant, the husband of Stephanie Seymour, who has purchased various items from the 1950s to the 1970s for her. The Ludot family has been loyal customers, being renowned for their modern art collection, which naturally includes the finest couture from Ludot’s collection.
Kim Hersov, the founder of The Quaintrelle, a vintage platform, will be selecting items for her clients and possibly for herself. She reflects on the closure of Didier’s store as the end of an era but believes that there are still individuals who appreciate and wear these exquisite pieces. She emphasizes the importance of investing in wearable treasures like Yves Saint Laurent’s brown embroidered velvet jacket from 1983 or Chanel tweed suits for their timeless appeal and craftsmanship.
As Didier prepares to watch his cherished pieces find new homes at Bonhams on January 30th, notable figures like Johnny Depp, Kate Moss, and Sharon Stone may participate in the auction. For those unable to attend in person, the auction will continue online until February 3rd. Bidding at such auctions is a refined yet competitive activity, so good luck to all participants!
Ludot provides valuable advice for buying and wearing vintage clothing: ensure the item is in excellent condition, representative of the designer’s skill, and ask for a condition report before purchase. Vintage pieces have their own unique charm, transcending mere brand names. If wearing vintage, pair it with modern accessories to create a contemporary look.
When bidding, focus on acquiring a standout piece rather than multiple lots. This strategy allows you to secure a piece you genuinely desire. Whether collecting or wearing vintage fashion, choose pieces that resonate with you and align with your personal style.
The act of altering clothing items to suit personal preferences while still retaining their original value has been a longstanding practice in the world of fashion. Renowned for her elegant style, Catherine Deneuve once owned a beautiful pink Saint Laurent Couture dress that required some modifications before being worn. Sharing her experience, she revealed, “I did alter a pink Saint Laurent Couture dress which belonged to Catherine Deneuve because I had to wear it! But the truth is, the process is somewhat heartbreaking.”
For individuals considering purchasing high-end garments with the intention of wearing them, seeking advice from the auction house on reputable professionals for alterations is crucial. This ensures that any necessary modifications are carried out with precision and care, preserving the integrity of the original garment.
Fashion expert Hersov suggests exploring the world of accessories, particularly bags from esteemed fashion houses. These accessories were often crafted with superior quality compared to contemporary counterparts, making them valuable investments. With the current prices of new items skyrocketing unnecessarily, turning to well-made vintage accessories can offer both style and substance.
One exciting opportunity for fashion enthusiasts is the chance to bid on The Didier Ludot Collection at Bonhams website. This collection, curated by the esteemed fashion expert Didier Ludot, features a selection of timeless pieces that capture the essence of chic and sophistication. By participating in the auction, individuals can acquire unique and exquisite items that hold a special place in fashion history.
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Embracing the art of alteration in fashion, seeking expert advice for modifications, exploring vintage accessories, participating in prestigious auctions, and engaging with reputable journalism are all ways to enrich one’s sartorial journey. By carefully navigating the world of fashion and staying informed, individuals can cultivate a deep appreciation for style, craftsmanship, and the stories woven into each garment and accessory.
