Anne Fontaine: Modern Classics
If you've never heard of designer Anne Fontaine, not to be confused with the former dancer & director of the same name, I'm happy to introduce you to her designs. Fontaine's work has been a favorite of mine since I first walked passed her shop in the historic Rockefeller Center in the early 2000s. Her crisp button down shirts caught my attention for their excellent tailoring, construction, and enchanting embellishments.
Image courtesy of AnneFontaine.com
Originally a student of biology and interested in Environmental Science, Anne Fontaine studied abroad in France where she met her current partner. The story goes, after marrying, she discovered a trunk of vintage, handmade, white men's shirts in their family home, inspiring her to create a collection of women's shirts using a combination of classic French tailoring with modern details. Fontaine was determined to take a simple garment from basic, to a statement piece. She achieved this by "combining classic silhouettes with unexpected elements, and effortlessly blending simplicity with a touch of Avante Garde" (annefontaine.com).
Her first collection was a success which prompted Fontaine to shift focus from the sciences to fashion design. The majority of her collections are in white and black with small splashes of color, mixing masculine and feminine elements, for fashionable but not trendy designs.
Image courtesy of districtofchic.com
Using natural materials, Fontaine's collection of cotton and silk shirts have expanded to a full line and accessories. From dress shirts to evening gowns, Fontaine uses detailed embroidery, lace, applique, and beading techniques that feel like remnants of highly embellished historical dress without feeling like a costume. Her collections can be worn for all types of occasions whether it be the office, out for cocktails, or a black tie event. If you enjoy standing out from the crowd, her designs are definitely for you. We're lucky to have a few pieces in our collection for sale and will be hunting for more to add.
Lace Top available at ladytofanascloset.com