Paul Poiret — Robe du soir Joséphine, 1907
© Les Arts Décoratifs / Jean Tholance
He became a fashion designer in 1903, formulating a tailor-made lifestyle
for a rich and cultivated clientèle that loved innovation. Following the
example of his mentor, couturier Jacques Doucet, he built up a personal
collection of works by artists of his time, some of whom were friends:
from Matisse to Picasso, to Brancusi, as well as Van Dongen and Dunoyer
de Segonzac. Paul Poiret revolutionized fashion by simplifying silhouettes
and introducing structural changes such as low waistlines adorned with
grosgrain ribbons. His vibrant and bold color palette, inspired by fauvism
and Orientalism, reflects his innovative spirit. Drawing on the Musée des
Arts Décoratifs’ extensive collections (fashion, textiles, furniture, drawings,
photographs, illustrations and posters), the exhibition explores the various
themes that marked Paul Poiret’s life and work, his fascination with Russian
Ballets, his artistic collaboration with Raoul Dufy and the 1925 International
Arts and Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts Exhibition, as well as his
stylistic influence.