From fashion to furniture, and jewellery to Christmas decorations, Art Deco style is trending again …
One of my favourite fashion moments at Paris Fashion Week was designer Peter Copping’s SS26 show for Lanvin. He presented a soigné collection of chiffon and jersey draped cocktail and evening dresses, many featured drop-waists, geometric patterns, headbands and fringing. Copping focused on powder blue, while the set was cobalt blue, as were some of the dresses – both hues favoured by founder Jeanne Lanvin. Whether by accident or design, the fashion show was very apt in this the centenary year of Art Deco. Lanvin was a favourite designer of the so-called Bright Young Things of the Roaring Twenties – a carefree generation of dazzling young aristocrats and socialites who threw lavish fancy dress parties, drank exotic cocktails and whose antics inspired writers from Nancy Mitford to Evelyn Waugh, as well as society photographer Cecil Beaton. You can learn more about their style at the current exhibition in London’s National Portrait Gallery.
The Art Deco movement (and the important Paris Exhibition of 1925) symbolised post World War I optimism and modernity. The hallmarks of this enduring style are glamour and ambition. It’s defined by zigzag patterns, chevrons and sunbursts with an emphasis on symmetry and bold, opulent colours like black and gold. Nowhere epitomises Art Deco architectural elegance than Claridge’s hotel in London, where other notable details include its Jacques Adnet Deco doves and original Lalique designs.
There are regular Deco tours of the hotel, in addition to Charleston masterclasses and Cecil Beaton cocktails in The Fumoir (try The Flapper served in Lalique glassware). Visitors can also book a Great Gatsby pre-theatre dinner in the Restaurant, before heading to the musical production of The Great Gatsby at The Coliseum. A special Bright Young Things Sleepover includes a host of treats including a limited-edition F Scott Fitzgerald book of Flappers and Philosophers and a bottle of the classic 1925 Shalimar fragrance, created by Guerlain and presented in decorative Art Deco bottles. Guests stay in rooms designed by Bryan O’Sullivan in his signature New Deco style.
Many of London’s current bright young things enjoy dining at China Tang restaurant at The Dorchester where interiors pay homage to the Art Deco era, especially the timeless style of 1930’s Shanghai. If in the capital, pop in to try its signature Peking Duck and extensive Dim Sum menu (crafted without added MSG). When you’re there, check out the staff uniforms – a collaboration with designer Huishan Zhang – and also its special literary supper clubs.
In Dublin, the Fitzwilliam Hotel has completed an extensive refurbishment, led by designer Christopher Ash of Project Orange. On his moodboard was the idea of “Baronial Moderne” playing with grand proportions. He used luxurious materials, layered textures and a palette inspired by the changing seasons of St Stephen’s Green. I particularly like the details in the swish balcony bedrooms including textiles from Pierre Frey, Designers Guild and Osborne & Little. You will find furniture from Irish company Odonnell Furniture Makers and posh amenities from the Bitter End.
If planning a weekend break in Paris, stay at the Hotel Aiglon which transports guests to Art Deco era. A must-do is to take in the exhibition 1925-2025: 100 Years of Art Deco at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. One of the main partners of this exhibition is the Orient Express. Visitors can see archival pieces from its historic trains as well as future interpretations of this chic mode of transport. Also of note for fashionistas, three of Jeanne Lanvin’s original rooms are on permanent display at the museum.
Louis Vuitton Art Deco is another new exhibition in Paris which features over 300 objects from trunks to family mementos and accessories. Once you’ve perused the exhibition, visit Café Maxime Frédéric overlooking the Seine. Insiders recommend the Eggs Voyage, Croque Pont Neuf and the Damier tartlets followed by the Louis Vuitton cheesecake!
Those who love Art Deco jewellery should look out for pieces from this era coming up in Adam’s Auctioneers Fine Jewellery auction on December 2. “When I think of Art Deco, the jewellers that nailed that period best were of course Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Boucheron, but also Raymond Templier, Raymond Yard, Chaumet to name just a few. It’s a period that continues to fascinate people and Art Deco jewellery remains collectible pieces for their rarity, quality and innovative techniques,” says Claire-Laurence Mestrallet, Director at Adam’s Auctioneers. Rings are especially popular with Irish investors who also love diamonds, onyx and rock crystal which were typical of the period. Recent sales at Adam’s included pieces from a private French collection including an impressive emerald and diamond bracelet which fetched €55,000 and a natural pearl necklace with its diamond clasp which fetched €48,000!
Art Deco is re-emerging as a current interior design trend. Irish design brand Oriana B’s collection of curved wood coffee tables and consoles pay homage to the era. Creative director Alannah Monks says, “The OB collection has always been informed by the history of design and furniture making. We looked at American Art Deco architectural proportions such as the Chrysler Building in New York or Union Station in LA to achieve the perfect balance and ratio.” Look out for a second collection later this year.
Art Deco Christmas themes are on the rise too – think embellished silver and gold baubles with fan-shaped designs and pale velvet ribbons. Make a beeline to Brown Thomas‘ Christmas Shop where you’ll find decorations to fit the theme amongst its All That Jazz collection. Silver Art Deco beaded placemats from The Designed Table will offset any tablescape. And to complete the picture, invest in champagne saucers from The Westbury’s online store.
Talking of Christmas, on my wishlist is a pair of red “Minnie” gloves from Paula Rowan, described as having an with an Art Deco-style bow at the cuff, finished with a luxurious silk lining.
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