—At first glance, there is a paradox between the wild iconography in Pierre Cardin’s work and his serene appearance. Even recently, this hunched, white–haired gentleman, born in 1922, could be spotted at Jean Paul Gaultier fashion shows. When you run into him now, he is escorted by his collaborators, who protect him as if he were a holy relic, creating an impression of frailty. However, as you move in closer, there he is laughing, raising a glass of champagne, juggling figures with the agility of a young accountant, mischievous as a little boy, and self–assured as a nobleman. Pierre Cardin is still Pierre Cardin, just like his fashion, which was, is and always will be breathtaking.
The last surviving 20th–century couturier never speaks kindly of his dear departed colleagues, commenting…
