The Summer Ball of MAD Paris, directed by Sofia Coppola
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As all eyes from the celebrity and fashion world turned across the Atlantic last May to scrutinize the outfits of the MET Gala, the French capital also wanted to make us dream at the beginning of July. Indeed, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the 1925 decorative arts exhibition, a Summer Ball was organized this Sunday at the MAD. This remarkable first edition was envisioned by director Sofia Coppola. Between celebrating the French art of living and chic couture outfits, let’s reflect on this event that is likely to become part of a long lineage of celebrations.
The MAD Summer Ball: a French MET Gala?
Like the MET Gala in NYC, the Summer Ball at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris is primarily an event aimed at raising funds. In addition to bringing together prestigious guests, all dressed in the finest outfits, this first edition of the ball reportedly raised 2.8 million dollars. These funds will be used, among other things, to finance the next major exhibition at the MAD as well as to support the schools and structures associated with it.
This unmissable evening also had a strategic place in the schedule, akin to the New York celebration. On one hand, it presented itself as the launch of the Paris Haute Couture fashion week. But also, as an introduction to the upcoming exhibition celebrating 100 years of Art Deco, which will open its doors next October at the museum.
However, although the list of 300 guests was dream-worthy, including Anna Wintour – who had just bid farewell to the Vogue editorial team, the Ball distinguished itself from the MET Ball by its second act. Indeed, while the first part of the evening gathered celebrities and patrons from various artistic backgrounds, the event opened its doors to fashion school students for its second part. A way to celebrate the transmission of know-how as well as the future generation of haute couture, all with a more family-oriented and friendly spirit than previous events of this kind.
Additionally, it was the participants of the ball who paid for their entry, rather than the fashion houses, which differs from the MET.
And it seems that the organizers are considering making it an annual event!
A French Ball envisioned by Sofia Coppola
When we talk about a ball, we mean a unique experience and a carefully curated decor. And for that, who better than Sofia Coppola to take the reins of the artistic direction of this enchanted night?
Having honed her skills as a seamstress at Chanel, and then leaving a mark with her powdery-toned cinema, the director presents a distinctive universe that perfectly suits the event. Thus, inspired by the evenings of Jacqueline de Ribes, the Proust Ball, and the Black and White Ball, S. Coppola imagined a decor worthy of Bridgerton to celebrate the French art of living. All of this took place in the unique setting of the North Wing of the Louvre Museum.
She notably told Vogue that she envisioned the event’s scenography as a party scene from a film. With that in mind, she aimed to break away from the usual codes of charity events and bring a warmer touch. The result: an intimate setting, with an indoor garden spirit in soft pink tones, crowned by imposing chandeliers that added a touch of grandeur to the evening. The artistic director of the evening even collaborated with the florist who had worked with her on Marie Antoinette!
This cocoon later transformed into a dance floor, where guests could reveal, after their outfits, their best moves and grooves to the tunes of Phoenix, who came to perform for the occasion.
Celebrating French craftsmanship at the MAD Summer Ball
Of course, the MAD Summer Ball was the perfect opportunity to showcase the most beautiful pieces. And the guests notably honored French craftsmanship.
In line with the evening’s aesthetic, Sofia Coppola appeared in a delicate powder pink dress by Chanel. This creation, featuring elegant ruffles, required over 510 hours of delicate work. Spanish actress Penélope Cruz was also stunning in a dress of deep blue that played with transparency and shimmering notes. Similarly, Keira Knightley donned a chic tailored dress with a meticulously designed neckline. Alongside them, Chiara Mastroianni, Kirsten Dunst, and Léna Situations showcased outfits combining black and cream tones with silver, gold, or even floral or colorful details.
In itself, this inaugural edition of the MAD Summer Ball managed to make an impact and distinguish itself from the MET Gala through its French touch and conviviality. We are already eager to see the next editions!
Photos: ©MAD Paris
