Since I was very young, I’ve been passionate about fashion. I loved buying new clothes for my Barbies and would often personalize them to match my own taste. As a teenager, I devoured teen magazines and tried to dress just like the girls on the glossy pages.
In the final year of my university studies, I had to write an article to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Communications, with a focus on Public Relations. I could choose any topic that linked PR to another field — and naturally, I chose “PR in the Fashion Industry.” I decided to begin with a bit of fashion history, and the deeper I got into my research, the more fascinated I became. As I flipped through book after book about designers and fashion movements, I started to realize how many epic moments and iconic outfits we now take for granted.
Like the time Christian Dior shocked the world by creating a skirt that revealed women’s shins (gasp!) Or the fact that I can wear pants without thinking twice, all because Gabrielle Chanel decided to rebel and design them in the first place — that was a true eye-opening moment.
If reading dense books on fashion theory isn’t your thing (I get it!), here’s a list of movies and documentaries you can watch instead to learn more about some of the most iconic French haute couture maisons.
And speaking of fashion — Sézane, the first French fashion brand born online, has partnered with us for their newest pop-up in Boston, located at 70 Pier 4 Blvd, Suite 220. Now through May 31, if you sign up for a membership or a class, just stop by the French Library with your receipt and you’ll receive an exclusive and super cute Sézane tote bag — à la marinière, just like Gaultier’s iconic striped piece. Don’t miss it!
In the final year of my university studies, I had to write an article to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Communications, with a focus on Public Relations. I could choose any topic that linked PR to another field — and naturally, I chose “PR in the Fashion Industry.” I decided to begin with a bit of fashion history, and the deeper I got into my research, the more fascinated I became. As I flipped through book after book about designers and fashion movements, I started to realize how many epic moments and iconic outfits we now take for granted.
Like the time Christian Dior shocked the world by creating a skirt that revealed women’s shins (gasp!) Or the fact that I can wear pants without thinking twice, all because Gabrielle Chanel decided to rebel and design them in the first place — that was a true eye-opening moment.
If reading dense books on fashion theory isn’t your thing (I get it!), here’s a list of movies and documentaries you can watch instead to learn more about some of the most iconic French haute couture maisons.
Dior
Christian Dior transformed postwar fashion with his 1947 “New Look,” a bold celebration of femininity that featured structured silhouettes, cinched waists, and full skirts — a glamorous contrast to the utilitarian styles of the 1930s and 40s. Dior’s legacy continued through visionary creative directors like Yves Saint Laurent, who debuted at just 21, and John Galliano, both of whom brought their own dramatic flair while honoring the house’s iconic codes.Yves Saint Laurent
Saint Laurent created his own brand after he left Dior in 1958. He was one of the most influential couturiers of the 20th century, being credited with bringing women the tuxedo suit (Le Smoking) in 1966.Jean Paul Gaultier
Jean Paul Gaultier made fashion history by designing Madonna’s iconic cone bra corset for her 1990 Blond Ambition Tour, transforming lingerie into outerwear and turning the piece into a symbol of bold femininity and empowerment. Equally iconic is his reimagining of the classic Breton striped sailor shirt (la marinière), which he elevated from a French maritime staple to a high-fashion signature.Chanel
Coco Chanel revolutionized women’s fashion by liberating them from corsets and rigid silhouettes, favoring relaxed, elegant designs that prioritized comfort and movement. She blurred the lines between masculine and feminine style by introducing elements like trousers and tailored jackets.And speaking of fashion — Sézane, the first French fashion brand born online, has partnered with us for their newest pop-up in Boston, located at 70 Pier 4 Blvd, Suite 220. Now through May 31, if you sign up for a membership or a class, just stop by the French Library with your receipt and you’ll receive an exclusive and super cute Sézane tote bag — à la marinière, just like Gaultier’s iconic striped piece. Don’t miss it!
Bruna Franco
Marketing & Membership Manager
Bruna first joined the Center as a member, looking for an opportunity to practice French and to be around French culture. She is now thrilled to be the Membership Manager and to provide members with the amazing experience she was previously able to enjoy herself. She is a native Portuguese speaker who, by the age of eight, knew she wanted to be multilingual someday. Working at the French Library now seems like a dream come true.
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