In the inaugural parade, a mini skirt was shown outdoors and at -5º below zero
“Old, boring and expensive”, this is how the Londoner Mary Quant saw the fashion of the 50s . The rebellious designer dared to defy the norms of good taste of the time that dictated that skirts should reach the knee -or even below it-, creating a new comfortable and sensual outfit. Despite criticism from the most conservative Catholic groups of the time, who quickly raised their voices, the 34-centimeter piece managed to fascinate the whole world . Brigitte Bardot, Audrey Herpurn or Jane Fonda were soon among her faithful followers. A star was born.
Fifty years later, the miniskirt is still an indisputable basic that transcends styles and eras. The exhibition organized by the Dauphine Market (one of the largest markets within the Saint-Ouen Flea Market) in collaboration with the Pierre Cardin Foundation has brought together some of the most iconic designs in history.
'Mini, Mini, Mini' was inaugurated on January 29 with a parade. It will be open to the public until next February 20: unique pieces from Courrèges, Paco Rabanne or Escada will remind us how 34 centimeters of fabric managed to revolutionize the world of fashion.
The 34 centimeters of Mary Quant
Did you know?
-The name 'miniskirt' found its inspiration in the famous Mini Designer car, the favorite of Mary Quant. In June 1988, 2,000 Minis designed by Mary Quant herself were produced. with zebra print interior and red seat belts.
-Mary Quant was decorated by Queen Elizabeth II of England. In 1966 she received the Order of the British Empire (a higher grade than the sovereign gave to the Beatles), and she received it, of course, in a miniskirt.
One of the mini skirt models at the inaugural fashion show