Throughout history, fashion houses have faced various challenges, leading to closures, but some have defied the odds and made triumphant comebacks. In this curated list, we explore the stories behind renowned fashion houses such as Schiaparelli, Moynat, Courrèges, Mugler, Paco Rabanne, Rochas, and more, delving into their rise, fall, and subsequent revival.
Watch the video below to find out more about the history of each house and its revival and read on for more details on their legacy, the creative minds behind their comebacks, and where you can shop their current collections. Whichever house has the designs you like and seek, a parcel forwarding address gets you closer to owning unique vintage pieces and the latest trends.
Closed in 1954 - Reopened in 2012
The fashion house of Schiaparelli was founded by Elsa Schiaparelli in 1927 and gained international acclaim for its avant-garde and surrealistic designs. Schiaparelli's bold and innovative approach to fashion, incorporating elements like visible zippers and collaborations with artists, challenged conventions and redefined femininity. After a period of success, the fashion house closed in 1954 but made a comeback in 2012.
Today, Schiaparelli continues to merge Elsa Schiaparelli's surrealistic style with contemporary designs, attracting a new generation of fashion enthusiasts. With its rich history and commitment to artistic expression, Schiaparelli remains an iconic name in the fashion industry.
Closed in 1976 - Reopened in 2011
Moynat, a renowned fashion house, was founded in 1849 and gained acclaim for its exquisite craftsmanship and luxury travel goods. Under the direction of Pauline Moynat, the brand expanded its offerings and became a pioneer in lightweight and practical luggage designs. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Moynat flourished, catering to prestigious clients. However, it faced challenges and closed in the 1970s.
In 2010, Moynat was revived by LVMH, retaining its heritage while infusing modern elements. Today, Moynat is celebrated for its handcrafted leather goods, blending tradition with contemporary style, and upholding its legacy as a symbol of timeless luxury.
Closed 1939 - Reopened in 2006
Vionnet is a renowned fashion house founded by Madeleine Vionnet in 1912. Madeleine's innovative draping and bias-cut techniques revolutionized women's fashion, emphasizing fluidity and freedom of movement. During the 1920s and 1930s, Vionnet gained international acclaim for its exquisite craftsmanship and became a preferred choice among influential figures.
The fashion house closed during World War II, but it was revived in 2006, honoring Vionnet's legacy while incorporating contemporary elements. Today, Vionnet is celebrated for its architectural silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and its ongoing inspiration to the fashion industry.
Closed in 2006 - Reopened in 2009
The House of Rochas was founded by Marcel Rochas in 1925 and quickly gained recognition for its innovative and elegant designs. The brand became known for its flattering silhouettes and luxurious fabrics. In the 1930s, Rochas introduced the iconic fragrance Femme, which became a sensation. Throughout the mid-20th century, Rochas expanded its offerings and established itself as a prominent fashion house. After Marcel Rochas' passing, the brand underwent changes in ownership and design direction.
After being acquired by Procter & Gamble, the Rochas' fashion line was discontinued in 2006 but relaunched only three years later. In recent years, Rochas has experienced a revival, combining classic elements with contemporary influences. The house of Rochas continues to captivate with its refined aesthetics and commitment to timeless elegance.
Closed in 2002 - Reopened in 2011
The fashion house of Mugler, founded by Thierry Mugler, emerged in 1974 with a bold and visionary approach to fashion. Mugler's designs challenged conventions with sharp tailoring, sculptural silhouettes, and futuristic elements. The brand gained global recognition through provocative runway shows and successful fragrances. Mugler's creations embody confidence, power, and sensuality, often infused with elements of fantasy.
While experiencing changes in ownership and design leadership, Mugler remains committed to innovative design and storytelling. The brand's distinctive style and avant-garde spirit continue to captivate fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
Closed in 1968 - Reopened in 1986
The fashion house of Balenciaga was founded by Cristóbal Balenciaga in 1919 and quickly became known for its innovative designs and craftsmanship. Balenciaga's bold and sculptural creations challenged conventions and set new standards for modern elegance. After his retirement, the brand went through changes in creative direction, but Balenciaga's influence remained strong. Under designers like Nicolas Ghesquière, Balenciaga rejuvenated its image with avant-garde designs.
Today, Balenciaga continues to evolve under the creative leadership of designers such as Demna Gvasalia, maintaining its reputation for pushing boundaries and redefining fashion norms. Balenciaga remains one of the most influential fashion houses in the world, known for its legacy of innovation and uncompromising craftsmanship.
Closed in 2006 - Reopened in 2011
The fashion house of Paco Rabanne, founded by Paco Rabanne himself in the 1960s, gained fame for its avant-garde designs using unconventional materials. After a period of success and influence, the brand closed its doors temporarily in the 1990s as Rabanne stepped back from designing. However, the house of Paco Rabanne experienced a revival and reopened under new creative leadership in the early 2000s.
Since then, the brand has continued to push boundaries and innovate, combining Rabanne's legacy with contemporary influences to create collections that capture the essence of modernity and individuality. Paco Rabanne remains a prominent and influential fashion house, celebrated for its fearless and forward-thinking approach to design.
Closed in 1994 - Reopened in 2011
The fashion house of Courrèges, founded by André Courrèges in 1961, gained prominence for its futuristic designs that challenged conventional fashion norms. The brand closed its doors temporarily in the 1990s as it faced difficulties in maintaining relevance. However, Courrèges experienced a revival in the 21st century when it was acquired by new owners who sought to reignite its original spirit and innovation.
With a fresh perspective, Courrèges relaunched, paying homage to its heritage while incorporating contemporary elements. Today, the fashion house continues to captivate with its trailblazing designs, reflecting its legacy of innovation and cementing its place in fashion history.
Closed in 1987 - Reopened in 2018
The fashion house of Patou, founded by Jean Patou in 1914, gained recognition for its innovative and daring designs. Patou introduced sportswear-inspired fashion and vibrant colors to haute couture during the 1920s. The brand also made a mark in perfumery with the launch of iconic fragrances. After Jean Patou's passing in 1936, the fashion house continued under different designers.
In recent years, Patou has experienced a resurgence, blending its rich heritage with modern influences. Today, it stands as a symbol of timeless style and innovation, honoring the vision of its founder.
Closed in 1929 - Reopened in 2018
The fashion house of Poiret, founded by Paul Poiret in the early 20th century, revolutionized fashion with its innovative and avant-garde designs. Poiret introduced loose-fitting, draped garments that broke away from traditional corsets and embraced artistic influences from different cultures. The brand symbolized luxury and modernity but faced a decline after World War I due to financial difficulties and the changing fashion landscape.
More than 80 years after its closing, the French couture house made a comeback with a show during Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2018-2019. Today, the famous house sells a skincare and makeup lines and operates an online boutique and stores in Korea.
These fashion houses, with their rich histories and influential legacies, have faced challenges, setbacks, and even temporary closures. However, through visionary leadership, creative reinvention, and a deep understanding of their brand DNA, they have emerged stronger than ever, captivating audiences once again with their unique designs and artistic expressions.
Today, you can shop ready-to-wear collections from these iconic houses and be a part of their reimagined legacy while staying on top of the latest trends. Explore these truly outstanding and inspiring pieces of fashion imbued with history, yet made to reflect the modern lifestyle. With a forward2me address, your purchases are delivered on time, directly to your doorstep by the leading courier companies.
