The Summer Ball at MAD Paris, directed by Sofia Coppola
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As all eyes from the celebrity and fashion world turned across the Atlantic last May to scrutinize the outfits of the MET Gala, the French capital also wished to make us dream at the beginning of July. Indeed, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Decorative Arts exhibition, a Summer Ball was organized this Sunday at the MAD. A noteworthy premiere imagined by director Sofia Coppola. Between the celebration of the French art of living and chic couture outfits, let’s look back at this event that is likely to be part of a long lineage of celebrations.
The MAD Summer Ball: a French MET Gala?
Like the MET Gala in NYC, the Summer Ball at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris is primarily an event aimed at raising funds. In addition to gathering prestigious guests, all dressed in the finest outfits, this first edition of the ball reportedly managed to raise $2.8 million. These funds will be used, among other things, to finance the next major exhibition at the MAD and to support associated schools and institutions.
This unmissable evening also had a strategic place in the schedule, much like the New York celebration. On the one hand, it was presented as the launch of Paris Haute Couture fashion week. But also, as a preview of the upcoming exhibition celebrating the 100th anniversary of Art Deco, which will open in October at the museum.
However, although the list of 300 guests was dreamy, including Anna Wintour – who had just bid farewell from the Vogue editorial team, the Ball distinguished itself from the MET Gala by its second act. Indeed, while the first part of the evening gathered celebrities and patrons from various artistic backgrounds, the event opened its doors to fashion school students for its second part. A way to celebrate the transmission of know-how as well as the future generation of haute couture, all in a more familial and convivial spirit than previous events of this type.
Additionally, it was the participants of the ball who paid for their entry, rather than the fashion houses, which differs from the MET.
And it seems that the organizers are considering making it an annual event!
A French ball imagined by Sofia Coppola
When we say ball, we mean a unique experience and a well-thought-out decor. And for this, who better than Sofia Coppola to take the reins of the artistic direction of this enchanted night?
Having honed her skills as a dressmaker at Chanel, and having made a mark with her powdery-toned cinema, the director presents a distinctive universe that perfectly suits the event. Thus, inspired by the soirées of Jacqueline de Ribes, the Proust Ball, and the Black and White Ball, S. Coppola envisioned a decor worthy of Bridgerton to celebrate the French art of living. All this, in the unique setting of the north wing of the Louvre Museum.
She notably told Vogue that she conceived the event’s scenography like a celebratory scene from a film. With this, she aimed to break away from the usual codes of charitable events and bring a warmer touch. The result: a muted setting, with an indoor garden spirit in rosy tones, topped with imposing chandeliers adding splendor to the evening. And the evening’s artistic director even had the florist who worked with her on Marie Antoinette!
This cocoon later transformed into a dance floor, where guests could reveal, after their outfits, their best moves and grooves to the tunes of Phoenix, who came to perform for the occasion.
The celebration of French know-how at the MAD Paris Summer Ball
Of course, the MAD Summer Ball was the perfect opportunity to showcase the most beautiful pieces. And the guests notably honored the French craftsmanship.
In line with the evening’s aesthetic, Sofia Coppola appeared in a delicate powder pink dress by Chanel. This creation, featuring elegant ruffles, required over 510 hours of meticulous work. Spanish actress Penélope Cruz was also enhanced by the French house, with a midnight blue dress playing with transparency and shimmering notes. The same goes for Keira Knightley, who wore a chic tailored dress with a carefully designed neckline. Alongside them, Chiara Mastroianni, Kirsten Dunst, and Léna Situations showcased outfits combining black and cream tones with silver, gold, or even pieces adorned with floral or colorful details.
In itself, this first edition of the MAD Paris Summer Ball made a significant impact and distinguished itself from the MET Gala by its French touch and conviviality. We are already looking forward to the next editions!
Photos: ©MAD Paris
