Lanvin was founded in 1889 by the then 22-year-old Jeanne Lanvin and until today it remains the oldest fashion house in Paris. Originally the designer became known for her beautiful mother-and-daughter outfits, but very soon she found herself dressing all of the city’s elite, who were delighted by her fresh approach to fashion. Lanvin’s skillful use of elaborate embellishments and beaded decorations in clear, light, and floral colors made her one of the most influential designers of her time.

Today the famous French luxury house continues in the tradition of the brand under the direction of Alber Elbaz by designing apparel that refuses to adhere to the whims and fancies of current trends, instead aiming to set the benchmark for other fashion houses to aspire to for itself. The 2 flagship stores for ‘hommes’ and ‘femmes’— that were originally designed in the twenties by the famous Albert-Armand Rateau— can still be found at their original addresses on rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. After more than a century’s worth of people passing by, fashionistas are still captivated by the gorgeous robes and smart suits that adorn the shop windows.