Bouchra Jarrar Takes Helm of Lanvin As Artistic Director Of Women's Collections

Lanvin, the oldest couture house to continually exist in Paris, confirmed Bouchra Jarrar as its new artistic director, following the October 2016 departure of Alber Elbaz. Jarrar has worked at Jean Paul Gaultier, been studio director for Nicolas Ghesquiere at Balenciaga and served as head of couture at Christian Lacroix, along with launching her own house in 2010. Jarrar will start on Monday. The designer is known for putting "quality and technical finesse ahead of razzmatazz", along with her love of minimal, streamlined sportswear.

"Her timeless style is in keeping with the style and values of our company," Lanvin chief executive officer Michèle Huiban said in a statement today. "Her talent, her high standards and her mastery of cuts and fabrics will bring a breath of freshness and modernity into the house, while respecting its soul as the oldest Paris couture house, a symbol of French elegance."

According to Ms. Huiban, who spoke to the New York Times from Paris: “Bouchra seemed a natural for our house, founded by a woman. I felt an immediate and very true connection when we met.”

In a phone call, Ms. Jarrar said, “I am honored to be part of the extraordinary history of the house, and all the great creators who came before me.” Jarrar will close her own brand to "devote herself to Lanvin." In an internal memo seen by the New York Times, the new head of Lanvin said: “My wish is to bring to Lanvin harmony and coherence of a world for women, a world of our time. I rejoice in being part of this beautiful chapter in the life of the house with all its teams.”