CARVEN

Today, Carven has transitioned from haute couture to retro-inspired contemporary ready-to-wear. Remaining effortlessly chic and charming, present-day creations have been guided by a new generation of designers – Alexis Martial and Adrien Caillaudaud – since 2015. The pair met while attending the Atelier Chardon Savard fashion school in Paris. Their experience in ready-to-wear, accessories, and haute couture from fashion powerhouses including Givenchy and Marc Jacobs have reinvigorated the brand without forgoing Carven’s 1960s Parisian character.

For Pre-Fall 2016, Martial and Caillaudaud took inspiration from British influences, including iconic model Twiggy, the Prince of Wales, and London street fashion. Textured knits, tweed, high-waisted pants, and fur-trimmed outerwear with sporty, youthful edginess dominated the collection. The label’s signature cocoon coats also appeared in the collection in an updated version with softer, rounded lapels. The juxtaposition of textures and materials bring a welcome, subtle tension that engages a modern audience who appreciates heritage.