Chloe

Chloe began as a ready-to-wear company in 1952, in France, by Jacques Lenoir and Gaby Aghion. Initially created with modernity, femininity and wearability in mind, the house established itself as an alternative to haute couture.

In 1961 Gerard Pipart and Christiane Bailly designed for the house and were very shortly followed by Michele Rosier in 1963, Maxime Cliff, Graziella Fontana, Tan Giudicelli, and Carlos Rodriguez.

From 1965 to 1983, Karl Lagerfeld designed for the house of Chloe and proved himself to be most successful. The clothing was then sold all over the world. He was assisted for several years by Herve Leger. Lagerfeld was also hailed in the 60's for his gypsy/hippie influenced slip dresses and blouses and his style which he decided to call "le flou".

From 1984 to 1987, Frenchman Guy Paulin was the designer for Chloe.

From 1987 to 1991, Martine Sitbon took over the designing. She wisely maintained Chloe's softly feminine classic shapes, but not without adding her own originality to the already known patterns. Sitbon was a success at Chloé with her tailored suits, flowing ankle length chiffon skirts and trousers.

Karl Lagerfeld came back in 1992, staying till 1996. However critics were not impressed with what they viewed as a rehashing of past Chloe successes.

In 1997, Stella McCartney took on the position of Chief Designer at Chloe. She started in a blaze of publicity and her debut show combined here interest in antique touches such as vintage lace and glass buttons, along with some very modern tailoring. The critics reviewed her collection very favourably. She gave several successful collections for Chloe.

The Spring/Summer 2000 collection was another big hit with rhinestone cutwork around necks and bodices of gowns in various original shapes.

In 2001, Stella McCartney left Chloe in order to start up her own label, with the backing of the house of Gucci.

Find fashion by Chloe @ the following eshops: