Paco Rabanne: an incredible auction
In a unique sale, PENELOPE’S AUCTION celebrates a secret part of the Paco Rabanne story, that of his silent muse, Kathy Jean-Louis. An intimate dive into the world of a visionary designer.
A friendship forged on Parisian nights
In the late ’70s, in the vibrant Paris of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paco Rabanne met Kathy Jean-Louis at Black Sugar, a legendary club where Caribbean rhythms and nocturnal energy blended. From this meeting sprang a fusional relationship: Kathy became Paco’s silent muse, the living embodiment of his futuristic dreams.
For over twenty years, far from the usual spotlight and projectors, Kathy accompanied Rabanne in her creative daring, between sculptural metallic dresses and avant-garde accessories. Their bond is so strong that even when Kathy joins the world of cosmetics in the 90s, Paco calls her back to his side, faithful to this unique source of inspiration.
A tribute sale
Until May 5, 2025, the Drouot platform is hosting this exceptional sale. Through a selection of iconic dresses, spectacular jewelry and rare pieces from the 60’s and 70’s, the soul of a free and avant-garde era comes to life.
PENELOPE‘S AUCTION, in close collaboration with Maison Rabanne’s Heritage & Archives department, offers much more than a simple sale: a true transmission of memory. Each piece reveals a secret, each couture piece whispers of a time when fashion dared all.
In addition to creations from Kathy Jean-Louis’ personal collection, there are three extremely rare pieces from the archives of Jacobo Romano and Jorge Zulueta, Paco Rabanne’s artistic accomplices.
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