Jeanne Paquin

Jeanne Paquin established her eponymous Parisian fashion house in 1889 on the famous Rue Saint-Honoré. She quickly became one of the most prominent female couturiers of the Belle Époque era.

Paquin was renowned for her elegant, romantic designs that heavily incorporated luxurious fabrics like silk and lace. She was also famous for her innovative use of pastel colors, particularly a signature shade known as 'Paquin blue.'

She was a pioneer in the business side of fashion, becoming the first couturière to open international branches of her house in locations like London and Buenos Aires. She also utilized modern marketing techniques, such as sending heavily styled models to high-profile public events.

After Jeanne Paquin retired in 1920, the house continued under the direction of several prominent designers, including Madeleine Wallis and Antonio Castillo. The legendary fashion house ultimately closed its doors in 1956.