Féraud, Louis, 1920- (1920-1999)
Dates
- Existence: 1920-1999
Biography
Louis Féraud was born in 1920 in Arles, France. He was an active member of the French resistance during WWII. He opened his first shop in Cannes in 1950, quickly becoming a favorite with the European jet set. His popularity grew after Brigitte Bardot wore one of his designs. Bardot loved his clothes and asked him to design her costumes for her films. He moved to Paris in 1955 and in 1956, opened a boutique which was patronized by many celebrities from Europe and the U.S. In 1958, he showed his first couture collection. Throughout the 1960s, he expanded his company, opening shops in various cities. His colorful designs helped establish the bohemian style of the 1960s. In 1970, he teamed up with the German firm Fink to create a ready-to-wear line. Féraud won the Golden Thimble prize for excellence in couture twice, first in 1978 and later in 1984. In 1994 he was named an officer of the French Legion of Honor. Féraud retired in 1995, leaving the company to his daughter, ex-wife, and colleagues. He passed away in 1999.