Guide Note

Christian Lacroix is a French fashion designer who created his first line of clothing in 1981. His own couture house is known for theatrical designs and glamorous ball gowns but has also devleoped a menswear line, lingerie, perfume, shoes, jewelry and other accessories.

Fast Facts

1. Founded his couture house in 1987
2. Original aspiration was to become a museum curator
3. Worked at Hermès in 1978
4. Designed the wedding dress for Christina Aguilera
5. Always ends his fashion shows with a model in a wedding dress
6. Won CFDA's Most Influential Designer Award in January 1987

Early Career

Lacroix studied art history at University of Montpellier and then the Sorbonne and École du Louvre. During this time he met Jean-Jacques Picart who assisted him in getting a job working at Hermès in 1978 and then with Guy Paulin in 1980. After graduating from the École du Louvre in 1981, he started working at Jean Patou.

The Look

Lacroix's clothes are marked by bright colors, luxurious fabrics, and dramatic lines. He is credited for creating the "le pouf" gown which features a big ball skirt.