June 21, 2010

SPOTLIGHT: Claude Montana



Claude who???? I said the same thing when I first heard of this amazing designer a few years ago.
Many of the 'it' trends we see on runway and even the streets are inspired by Claude Montana. Read on to find out what a significant impact he made in one of my favorite eras--the 1980's!


French native Claude Montana started out designing papier-mache jewelry at 20 years old. A few years later, he began designing biker's leathers and mastered the technique. His very first collection came alive in 1976.


In 1979 House of Montana was born. His affinity for sharp silhouettes in luxurious fabric like cashmere, leather, and silk made him a huge success. Throughout the 80's he was hailed an innovator of high fashion, most notably for sparking the shoulder pad trend alongside Thierry Mugler. Montana's shows were elaborate and full of energy, everyone who is everyone flew in to see them. Including me....in my dreams of course.


In 1992 Claude Montana designed a haute couture collection for Lanvin, winning two consecutive awards.

House of Montana closed up shop in 1997 but it's influence lives on in every shoulder pad, every leather glove, and every sharp tailored jacket. Here's to you Mr Montana!

xoxo Ferocious Fanny.

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