Lafont 1844, the iconic French fashion brand renowned for inventing overalls, has undergone a recent rebirth under the creative direction of Louis-Marie de Castelbajac. This exciting rebranding marks a new chapter for Lafont, with Louis-Marie infusing a unique blend of workerist classicism, techy finishes, and visual insider puns into the brand’s signature pieces.
The son of the legendary designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, Louis-Marie has introduced his fresh perspective to Lafont 1844, offering classic designs with a contemporary twist. His collection features innovative pieces like tone-on-tone worker-wear with reflective nylon strips for enhanced visibility at night, jackets with secret pockets, and vintage engravings dating back to the brand’s inception in 1844.
A standout item from Louis-Marie’s collection is the ‘Belt Metre’, a leather belt adorned with a meter scale that showcases his playful humor and emphasis on practicality. Additionally, the collection includes stylish slimline overalls and jumpsuits designed to cater to diverse fashion preferences, particularly for women.
Louis-Marie has struck a partnership with the chic boutique The Webster in Miami, where select pieces from his collection will be available for purchase starting in September. Meanwhile, customers can already place pre-orders for classic pieces on the Lafont website, with deliveries expected to commence in March.
The Lafont showroom, situated in the vibrant north Marais district of Paris, will remain open throughout the city’s women’s ready-to-wear season in early March. Here, visitors can explore iconic looks such as faded blue jackets and vintage overalls that pay homage to Lafont’s rich heritage.
Originally established in 1844 by Adolphe Lafont and now owned by Cepovett, a top European workwear manufacturer, the brand continues to push boundaries under Louis-Marie’s creative leadership. His commitment to French heritage and sustainable fashion is reflected in his use of recycled materials and locally sourced fabrics, with production carried out in Lafont factories in Madagascar.
Louis-Marie’s entrepreneurial drive and dedication to crafting a distinct brand identity have elevated Lafont’s standing in the fashion realm. His rebranding initiatives have garnered global acclaim, with his Armagnac brand ‘700’ achieving success both online and in the Chinese market.
In conclusion, Louis-Marie’s fresh vision for Lafont 1844 embodies a seamless fusion of tradition and modernity. By creating timeless workwear that prioritizes functionality, craftsmanship, and environmental responsibility, Lafont under Louis-Marie’s innovative stewardship is poised to leave a lasting impression on the fashion industry.
To learn more about the revamped Lafont 1844 collection, visit their official website here. For updates on Louis-Marie de Castelbajac’s latest fashion endeavors, follow him on social media here.
