LOVE CARVEN

CARVEN Over sixty years ago there was a woman living in Paris whose goal was to create beautiful gowns. She was lucky enough to pursue her dreams. Please let us introduce you to Madame Carven.

The shop at 6, Rond-Point des Champs Elysées in the 50’s.

In May 1945 new shop opens at the Rond-Point des Champs Elysees. Under the simple and elegant logo saying Carven it sells Haute Couture gowns. Thanks to its loyal customers such as Michele Morgan, a socialite who takes her part in an elegance contest dressed in the Carven's 'Cecilia' dress in 1951, the founder - Madame Carven takes over the entire first floor of the building she resides in. Next year she launches her first ever fragrance 'Vetiver'. 

Spring 1967, "Mademoiselle Carven“ line, bayadere cotton dress

In 1965 Madame Carven decides to get involved with several airlines. She designs smart uniforms for the most desireable and prestigious working ladies - flying attendants. Not only is that a great opportunity for her popularity in France but also thanks to that she becomes international.

The 70’s, Carven and her husband René Grog in the greenhouse of their country house, "La Nonette"

Carven's designs are mainly designed for women with a small frame, just like hers. That is the reason why in the 70's she becomes the top choice of tiny Japanese ladies. 

1971 is a year when Carven's signature green and white stripes were born. They have stayed with the fashion house ever since. Three years later Madame creates uniforms for upcoming Roissy Charles de Gaulle airport. With that prestigious role she seals her position in the fashion world.

Spring/Summer 1987 collection

In 1985 Carven celebrates her 40 years in fashion. 

Invitation to the Spring-Summer 1992 Collection Fashion Show

50 years of brand's existence is being celebrated by retrospective fashion show at the Musee Galliera. In 1993 Madame Carven decides to retire at the noble age of 84. She devotes herself to her another passion: antiques collecting. 

In 2010 Guillaume Henry joins the house of Carven. He creates a fresh, young and colourful image of the brand. In 2011 he debutes with first ever men's collection. His vision of Carven is clear: it's romantic and fun at the same time, girly and feminine, joyful and sometimes melancholic. And it all definitely works!

Nimue Smit for Carven Spring/Summer 2012 by Viviane Sassen

Archive picture source: Carven