Courrèges’ Nicolas Di Felice Is Feted by Nordstrom With a Candlelit Dinner
Courrèges, the heritage French fashion house, can be described in a few words: movement, color, geometry, and innovation. Always true to their spirit, each of these characteristics came to light last night in Brooklyn, where the brand celebrated their new capsule collection and pop-up with Nordstrom. In a candle-lit space called nº28, a Courrèges-clad crowd wore black sequined gowns, bodysuits, and long-sleeved tops—all part of the 10-piece capsule—paired with the label’s most classic pieces, such as the vinyl snap jackets and mini skirts.
Co-hosted by Nordstrom’s VP and Fashion Director Rickie De Sole and Courrèges’ Artistic Director Nicolas Di Felice, the evening kicked off with cocktails and a toast from Rickie. “It’s been years in the making,” she said of the collaboration with Courrèges. “When you leave a Courrèges show, you want to be that woman. Nicolas really understands the modern woman. Going into the holidays, our customer is looking for modern evening wear, and what Nicolas is doing is exactly that.” This marks Courrèges’ first collaborative collection with an American multi-brand retailer. For the 63-year-old brand, it’s a milestone that reflects the French house’s tradition of creating celebratory garments that are equally wearable, contemporary, and downright fun.
While designing the collection, Nicolas found inspiration in a single gesture: the act of wrapping a scarf. The motion is fluid and intimate, and it embraces the foundation of the design itself. With a focus on symmetry and functionality, this capsule collection presents a playful take on getting dressed. “This exclusive capsule collection embodies the geometry and sensuality of the FW24 collection through sophisticated silhouettes to celebrate festive evenings,” Nicolas says. And it’s true; in each piece, formal wear is reimagined through an architectural lens, and then made complete with a touch of sparkle. Customers can find the new collection in select Nordstrom stores and online, and at Nordstrom NYC’s pop-up, a new space designed by artist Remy Brière.
Joining Rickie and Nicolas to celebrate their partnership were VIP guests such as Hari Nef, Louisa Jacobson, Blake Abbie, and Rebecca Dayan. Attendees enjoyed classic French fare by Chef Chris Kronner, the chef behind Kronnerburger and Mayday Los Angeles. On the table, silver bowls with fresh persimmons and radishes with salted butter made for a vibrant spread.
Across the table from me, the brand’s new CEO, Marie Leblanc, remarked on the brand’s rare ability to stay true to its heritage while also remaining modern and consistent, to maintain creative vision while also catering to its customer. The lively room was a testament to her words. Glimmer from the table candles and Courregés sequins carried the fashion crowd, a true blend of merchants, writers, stylists, and creatives, into a night dedicated to innovation, celebration, and longevity in fashion.
Bre Johnson/BFA.com1/9Marie Leblanc, Rickie De Sole
Bre Johnson/BFA.com2/9Mecca Mozelle