Christophe Lemaire

Christophe Lemaire's eponymous label was created out of the designer's desire to produce the garments that he would like to wear himself. Formerly, the designer held the title of artistic director for Hermès women's ready-to-wear collections, but has since focused solely on his own label, exploring his view of the ideal perennial wardrobes for both men and women. His garments are precise, universal and meant to mix in effortlessly in accordance to the mood of the wearer. Previously, Lemaire had worked with Yves Saint Laurent, Thierry Mugler and Christian Lacroix before launching his namesake label in 1991. Subsequently, from 2000 to 2006, the collection had gone on hiatus, as Lemaire was approached to reinvigorate the iconic history of the Lacoste women's division. In present day, Lemaire chooses to run his brand as a totally independent company with a boutique situated in Paris and a collection that is very personal and based on the designer's interests in workwear, the notion of uniform, the New Wave period and his muse - August Sander.