In 1945 World War II came to an end. The
city of Paris, France had liberated, leaving its citizens in a flurry of
happiness and the sense that a new beginning had come. (World War II: The
Liberation of Paris) After having moved to Paris in 1945, Gaby established the
house of Chloe in 1952- seven years after the war. Paris was fully alive and
running again. The zeitgeist of Chloe would be seen as the feeling of freedom,
new beginnings, individuality, and the inspiration one can obtain from viewing
the city they inhabit. Gaby’s first
influence came from the seamstress that designed clothing for her family that
was Parisian inspired, to actually living in Paris a short time while she was
18. The lifestyle, people, and city itself are what truly inspired Gaby and the
designs for Chloe.
Gaby Aghion, the head behind Chloe, is
seen as an icon in the fashion industry because firstly, she established the
term “ready to wear.” Paris was full of fashion houses with pieces of haute
couture that only the wealthy could purchase. Gaby knew that in a time of less
money do to the war, it was time for clothing to be made that would be good
material, affordable, stylish, and could be worn once bought. Today, there are
hundreds of stores that offer their customers trendy looks that are “ready to
wear.” Chloe has influenced the fashion industry in a major way because of this
term.
Chloe is most known for the incredible
use of color in the designs of the clothing. The way the designs went towards a
more body-conscious look brought about the style of flowing fabrics that became
the essence of the tasteful look of the 1970s. When Chloe was first launched
the designs were noted as “chic, tactile and unmistakably French aesthetic.”
(Chloe biography) The French influence was a huge part of Chloe, and continues
as an influence for the brand today. As the years continued Chloe saw different
designers take over the brand. Karl Lagerfeld was the head designer in 1966,
leading Chloe to be one of the most popular brands of the 1970s. Then, in 1997
Stella McCartney became artistic director having “dusted off the old lace and
added a new energy that was sexy and rock romantic.” (Chloe French fashion) The
style of Chloe saw changes through time, but always will be known for the
French influence.
Bibliography
"Chloé
biography. The life and history of Chloé." N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Nov.
"Chloe
french fashion for prêt-à-porter."Luxury goods | Products| Designer
Brands|
Clothing | Bespoke
Jewellery l Gifts. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Nov. 2012.
"World
War II: The Liberation of Paris." History Net: Where History Comes Alive –
World & US History Online.
N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Nov. 2012.
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