Trying on a taupe silk jumpsuit in the all-white boudoir on the top floor

Lanvin is a brand that has always been near and dear to my heart–first, because the clothes seem like they were made for me and, second, because Alber Elbaz is such an  amazing designer and a sweetheart to boot. I love going to his shows in Paris and it’s always so much fun to congratulate him backstage. He’s such an appreciative, humble guy.

Now he’s opened this new boutique on Madison Avenue and I must say it’s spectacular. It opened without much fanfare a few weeks ago (apparently, Alber will come to New York for an official opening party this Fall), but I recently had the great opportunity to walk through the store with the boutique manager, Phyllis Yoo.

Trying on a fox-trimmed wrap: cozy, practical AND very, very chic

My verdict? It’s just gorgeous, from the witty mannequins in the front window to the all-white salon on the top floor. Best of all, it gives Alber room to showcase how much he’s expanded the entire collection, including more bags, shoes and accessories.

The store has three levels, and was designed to make you feel like you’re inside a charming closet full of wonderful things. Most of the garments are hung on elegant clothing racks, or in glass-sided cases; and shoes are lined up on the floor, just like you might set them up yourself.

Items commemorating Lanvin’s 120th anniversary, including notebooks and fountain pens

Alber has brought new energy to Lanvin, and many people are discovering it for the first time, but of course it’s not a new label–it’s one of the oldest French houses, founded by Jeanne Lanvin in 1889. To celebrate the brand’s 120th anniversary, Alber designed commemorative items like t-shirts, tote bags and fountain pens. There’s even a lovely box of Caran d’Ache colored pastel pencils, which would make a great gift!

The 2nd floor, with tall windows, parquet floors and beautiful clothes hanging everywhere you look

The second floor was my favorite space, with its tall windows onto Madison Avenue, chic little sitting areas, floor-to-ceiling displays of shoes and jewelry, and wonderful clothes everywhere.

Alber’s designs have always suited me–I own a substantial collection of his things. He truly understands women, wants to make them look beautiful, and his modern-but-elegant style is chic, wearable and fun. Plus, it seems to get better and better every season.

I started by trying on some amazing coats. I’m a real coat fanatic, and with this Fall collection Alber really outdid himself by mixing and matching fur with other fabrics. I have my eye on one.

The top floor houses a collection called Blanche, and it’s a place where Alber can show off his bridal wear (essentially, great shapes from the regular collections made in white, cream or other pale fabrics). It’s a great resource for brides who want an alternative to typical bridal dresses–and the room is white and very cozy. I tried on an amazing, draped jumpsuit–not very bridal, of course, but very chic!

The accessories are just amazing: big crystals, glass pearls and draped chains

The entire is store is laid out very well–you can see everything, and there are mirrors to bounce lots of natural light around the rooms. The design is sleek and modern but still very intimate, like an updated 30s boudoir.

I loved this dark blue clutch: it’s just the right size, and the hardware is beautiful

It’s the details that really set Lanvin’s products apart, like this little hinged mirror inside the same clutch

I was pleasantly surprised there was so much to look at. Now that this store is here, I may not have to wait until I go to Paris to shop for Lanvin.

I even loved this old photograph, with Lanvin’s perfumes displayed on a glass case

Photographs by Noël Sutherland