Now Open: Lanvin's Madison Avenue Outpost

Lanvin is officially open for business (lights, air conditioning and all), and the good news is, there are still plenty of spring wares for 30 percent off.

Last evening, we got reports that Lanvin devotees were so desperate to get their hands on the It-Parisian label's goods that they were actually shopping by candlelight, since the electricity wasn't yet working. By the time we made our way to the Upper East Side shop, a kind salesperson confirmed the story: Not only was the electricity out, the salespeople would run down the block to a friendly neighborhood restaurant to run all the credit card purchases through a machine.

The store itself is like a glamorous Parisian townhouse: Pre-fall handbags (a mix of ladylike chain-strap carryalls and some exotic skins) and accessories are lovingly arranged on the first floor, along with a significant amout of Spring 2010 merchandise, all marked down 30 percent. (Note to anyone with an urge to impress everyone at a late summer or early fall wedding: Go for the draped silk cocktail dresses.)

Upstairs the entirety of the label's pre-fall offers are arranged in full, from perfectly draped black gowns to exquisite leopard-print cocktail dress. Animal print, in fact, is in full effect throughout the store, from printed handbags to jumpsuits to high heels.

What's possibly even more tantalizing than seeing so much Lanvin in one store is beholding the third floor of the shop, which puts Lanvin's bridal line on display (something we're sure the soon-to-be-brides of Madison Avenue would appreciate). The staircase to the third floor is still missing a railing, but we're sure that will be fixed soon. Besides, if folks were happy to shop by candlelight, we're sure this store will do just fine while they amend the few outstanding issues.

Contact Us