60 years and counting: Chloé at Selfridges

It is crazy to think 60 years have just flown by! Founded by Gaby Aghion, an Egyptian-born political science graduate, in 1952, the brand Chloé was born. 

March is the month where Selfridges in London is dedicating the whole ground floor to pay tribute to one of the world’s most iconic brands. The store will be transformed into a shrine for Chloé fans, featuring a series of vintage pieces from the label’s archives and videos of the most memorable fashion shows. 

Gaby created Chloé because she was tired of the strict, full-skirted attire of the 1950s. She wanted something new, something fresh. Her concept was to produce nicely sewn, accessible dresses. The idea quickly gained recognition and shortly after there was a following among Paris’s upper crust. 

In 1965 Karl Lagerfeld was hired to work under her direction. Ten years later, Lagerfeld became head designer. The 1970s were pivotal for Chloé, as the brand catapulted to icon status. 

To mark this special occasion, the fashion house will re-issue 16 key pieces from its extensive history to create the commemorative Edition Anniversaire collection – including Karl Lagerfeld’s violin dress of spring/summer 1983, and Stella McCartney’s pineapple t-shirt of spring/summer 2001. All of these signature creations will be available for purchase.  

“Being able to bring this wonderfully celebratory retrospective to London is a joy for us,” said Sebastian Manes, the director of womenswear and accessories for Selfridges. “Reflecting on Chloé’s incredible accomplishments and contribution to the world of style is a must for followers of fashion, and we’re delighted to showcase that within our store.” 

The project, curated by Judith Clark will also coincide with Chloé dedicated Oxford Street window displays. Similarly an exhibition entitled Chloé Attitudes was held in Paris last year. 

The best words to describe Chloé are: a true legacy of originality and romanticism. To another 60 years! Cheers!

Pooja Sahny
Photos: Courtesy of Chloé/Selfridges