Lanvin by Alber Elbaz Red Multicolored Tweed Hat, 2012

Alber Elbaz has been deemed one of the House of Lanvin’s most pivotal designers. Elbaz is known for his extravagant draping and play with color variety throughout his collections. Designs from Lavin during the Elbaz epoch are imbued with incredible cultural value as Elbaz has been praised extensively by British Vogue editor Suzy Menkes and has even been described by the French cultural minister as “a national treasure”. Lanvin’s Resort 2012 collection incorporated Elbaz’ usual drama with color but also opting for interest through texture by using feathers, fringe, beading, and embroidery.

This tweed hat is exemplary of the textural element of the resort collection. Comprised of red, orange, pink, white, and black with a hint of teal yarns, this hat creates almost a gradient effect when viewed from afar. It features a steep crown and a narrow brim that has been frayed around the edges. This same fray effect has been employed around the base of the crown as well giving the hat attributes of the lighter colors in that area. This tweed hat is clean and classic or can be a colorful levity. While the form and material of the hat give it a certain seriousness, the fraying texture and joyful colors soften the aura.

Size estimate: XS/S

Size: 56

Circumference: 21 inches

Brim: 2 inches plus 3/4 inches in tweed

Crown height: 5 inches

The tweed is made up of a cotton blend with a black silk lining. This hat is in excellent condition and still has the original label and Lanvin boutique tags displaying the original retail price of $890. High-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.