France’s fashionable history strikes a pose for European Heritage Days

Ollia Horton with RFI

20 September 2024 at 4:21 am·1-min read

The annual European Heritage Days are an opportunity for the public to visit monuments and sites that are usually off limits. Among the participants this year are several luxury fashion houses, which are set to reveal some of the secrets of one of France’s most iconic industries.

Established by the French Culture Ministry in 1984, the European Heritage Days event has since been taken up by some 50 countries and inspired others outside the EU to launch their own versions.

A number of fashion houses and luxury companies are opening their doors for the three-day event, which this year coincides with Paris Fashion Week starting 23 September.

Artisans' paradise

For the second year running, the 19M gallery established by legendary brand Chanel is encouraging the public to visit its vast multidisciplinary space at Porte d’Aubervilliers.

Its name refers to the 19th district of Paris, the date of birth of designer Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel, and the letter “M” for mode (fashion), métiers d’art (artisanal professions) and main (hand), in tribute to craftspeople and their savoir-faire.

Chanel's signature fragrance: the sweet smell of success 100 years on

Meanwhile in the 7th district of Paris, the Kering luxury group – owner of Gucci and Saint Laurent among others – is inviting the public to see inside its headquarters at 40 rue de Sèvres.

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Artisans' paradise

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