PACO RABANNE COLLECTION KATHY JEAN-LOUIS & MISCELLANEOUS

PENELOPE’S is delighted to celebrate Paco Rabanne’s avant-garde aesthetic through Kathy Jean-Louis’ collection of clothing and jewelry, three exceptional pieces from directors Jacobo Romano and Jorge Zulueta, as well as iconic models from the 60s through to the 90s.

 KATHY JEAN-LOUIS & PACO RABANNE

For twenty intense and exciting years, Kathy Jean-Louis forged an unbreakable bond with Paco Rabanne. Two decades that passed in a flash, as the frenetic pace of collections and seasons left little room for pauses or recorded memories. Few photos, few notes. Just the memory of a human and creative adventure, lived with passion.

At the end of the 70s, alongside his fashion career, Paco Rabanne, a fan of West Indian and African music, made a name for himself in the Parisian nightlife scene thanks to the Black Sugar club in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It was during this period that he discovered Katoucha, and above all Kathy Jean-Louis, who was still in high school.

Even though Kathy works for other designers, Paco Rabanne has this compelling need to have her by his side to bring his sketches to life. “I’ve always drawn my models on you… I knew I was going to meet you, young lady!” he confided to her at their first meeting.

When Kathy Jean-Louis turned to cosmetics in 1997, Paco Rabanne desperately called her back. Inspiration eluded her. He needed her. Faithful and loyal, Kathy Jean-Louis, who now works with Patrick Alès, will continue to accompany him until he leaves his company for good in 1999.

A discreet but vibrant tribute to a bygone era and an eternal friendship.