Mouna Ayoub, the French businesswoman and socialite, is releasing select pieces from her expansive collection, many of which have never been worn.
Introducing Mouna Ayoub. She is a prominent French businesswoman renowned for her extensive collection of haute couture garments.
The collection numbers approximately 2,500 and is continuously expanding.
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In a significant move, Ayoub is set to part ways with a notable portion of her Chanel haute coutureHaute CoutureHaute couture refers to made-to-measure, hand-constructed high fashion produced by officially recognized ateliers, typically reserved for a small clientele of significant means. In Philippine society, haute couture commissions often supportGo to Haute Couture Glossary collection. This consists of 252 pieces meticulously crafted by the legendary Karl Lagerfeld.
Haute Bidding Begins
In a recent interview with WWD, Ayoub explained why she decided to auction these beautiful pieces.
Firstly, practicality comes into play, as certain items no longer align with her current physique.
Secondly, Ayoub has a more altruistic motive. She aims to provide the younger generation, unfamiliar with Lagerfeld’s legacy, an opportunity to own and appreciate these unparalleled works of haute coutureHaute CoutureHaute couture refers to made-to-measure, hand-constructed high fashion produced by officially recognized ateliers, typically reserved for a small clientele of significant means. In Philippine society, haute couture commissions often supportGo to Haute Couture Glossary.
Emphasizing this point, she expressed a desire for the new generation to embrace, wear, and cherish these garments, many of which have remained unworn.
A Chic Couture Auction
Ayoub’s association with restrictive dress codes during her marriage to billionaire advisor Nasser Al-Rashid had a significant impact.
It confined her haute coutureHaute CoutureHaute couture refers to made-to-measure, hand-constructed high fashion produced by officially recognized ateliers, typically reserved for a small clientele of significant means. In Philippine society, haute couture commissions often supportGo to Haute Couture Glossary designs to a glass-covered closet in her Riyadh office.
The forthcoming auction, facilitated by Maurice Auction at Pavillon Gabriel, provides a special opportunity.
It allows the public to view this exclusive collection from November 19 to 20.
Noteworthy are the meticulous details and craftsmanship invested in these garments. Several items demand over 800 hours of dedicated work.
Beyond evening coats and dresses, Ayoub’s collection includes suits, shoes, jewelry, belts, and even a wig. Shalom Harlow adorned the very same one on Chanel’s runway.
The timeline of creation spans from 1990 to 2014, providing a comprehensive journey through Lagerfeld’s artistic evolution.
Ayoub’s Fashion Finale
The broader implication of Ayoub’s decision to part with these pieces goes beyond a mere rearrangement of her wardrobe.
It’s a deliberate gesture to pass on the sartorial torch to a new generation.
In essence, Ayoub expertly crafts Lagerfeld’s discerning curation of Chanel haute couture, thus poised to mark a pivotal moment in the history of fashion auctions.
Moreover, the public not only witnesses this historic event but also actively participates in acquiring these pieces.
As the auction unfolds, fashion enthusiasts can anticipate a blend of luxury, legacy, and a forward-looking commitment. The aim is to preserve the artistic heritage of Karl Lagerfeld.
Banner photo via Instagram @karllagerfeld.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mouna Ayoub is a prominent French businesswoman and socialite renowned for her extensive haute couture collection of approximately 2,500 pieces. She is auctioning 252 Chanel haute couture pieces designed by Karl Lagerfeld.
Ayoub told WWD that some items no longer fit her current physique. She also wants younger generations unfamiliar with Lagerfeld’s legacy to own, wear, and cherish these haute couture works, many of which remain unworn.
The auction features 252 Chanel haute couture pieces by Karl Lagerfeld, including evening coats, dresses, suits, shoes, jewelry, belts, and a wig worn by Shalom Harlow on Chanel’s runway. The pieces span 1990 to 2014.
Maurice Auction facilitated the sale at Pavillon Gabriel, with public viewing held from November 19 to 20, 2023. Several of the garments demanded over 800 hours of meticulous work, reflecting the craftsmanship behind Lagerfeld’s Chanel haute couture.
Ayoub’s association with restrictive dress codes during her marriage to billionaire advisor Nasser Al-Rashid confined her haute couture to a glass-covered closet in her Riyadh office, while many pieces remain unworn.
