Lace has long inspired elite fashion houses worldwide. From 16 November, the TextielMuseum presents the acclaimed international exhibition 'The Art of Lace | Haute Couture from Chanel to Iris van Herpen.' Previously featured in Calais, it highlights the innovative prowess of French Leavers lace. Visitors gain exclusive insights into the lace makers and couturiers—from design and production to catwalk-ready masterpieces. Featuring nearly 50 stunning pieces by Alberta Ferretti, Balenciaga, Chanel, Dior, Jean Paul Gaultier, Iris van Herpen, Louis Vuitton, Maison Margiela, Schiaparelli, Valentino, and Yiqing Yin.
This exhibition peels back the curtain on haute couture, revealing the dynamic collaboration between Leavers lace artisans and top fashion houses. Unlike the usual secrecy surrounding suppliers and techniques, it lays bare the full process for each piece, complete with immersive videos and touchable samples. From lace creation to final garment, it's a testament to ongoing innovation in this timeless craft—celebrating both designers' visions and the unparalleled skill of lace makers, from raw thread to runway glory.
Lace Evolution
Originally handmade and labor-intensive, lace was once exorbitantly priced. The 19th-century Industrial Revolution in England birthed machines like the Leavers loom, smuggled to northern France to spark a thriving industry dominated by this technique. From the 1960s, knitted lace and shifting fashions challenged woven lace's complexity and cost. Today, a select few experts craft Dentelle de Calais-Caudry for Paris's premier houses and beyond.
To complement the show, the museum offers workshops and masterclasses on lace and fashion. Visit www.textielmuseum.nl.
Photo Credits
Chanel, Photo: Fred Collier | Ville de Calais (Haute Dentelle)
