The Musée des Arts Décoratifs dazzles in style

Two exhibitions which will literally dazzle you in every sense are currently rubbing shoulders in the centre of Paris, near the Hôtel Brighton. Starting with the exhibition devoted to how the Orient inspired Cartier jewellery. Although only jewellery and works of Art were sold back in 1847 when it first opened, Cartier started creating their own jewellery in the early 20th century and the eldest son of the family, Louis, found Oriental Art an extremely fertile source of inspiration.


The family's interest was triggered by major Oriental exhibitions in Paris (1903) and Munich (1910) and became more focused through the items Louis collected, and the many journeys, to India first of all, his young brother Jacques went on to bring back pearls, gems, patterns and techniques. New shapes, also from Persan arabesque and the geometric Arabic compositions, were blended into and became part of the Art Deco boom in the 1920s and firmly styled modernity forever. Take the time to contemplate the creations - from the multi-coloured bunches to dazzling finesse of the platinum and diamonds - which are sources of light designed to reflect on those wearing them.

The other exhibition at the museum is just as stunning. It retraces the career of fashion designer Thierry Mugler, who was one of the most audacious and inventive designers of the 80s-90s. The exhibition begins with the fantastic models from his Insects and Chimeras collection: long, training garments completely covered with butterfly wings or iridescent scales and feathers, edged with crystals and imitation diamonds. The designer imagined a range of fantasy, out-of-this-world creatures evoking airy lightness and weightless floating.


Then on to the science-fiction section, based on super-heroes from comics: robotic, aerodynamic and moulded in innovative materials - just as breath-taking! Followed by the designer's spectacular collection presentations, which featured Jerry Hall (his muse) and other Hollywood stars. An opportunity to experience Mugler's boldness, which has transcended fashion and continues to influence designers today.

After your tour, we suggest drinks or dinner at Loulou's, the famous Italian restaurant inside the museum. There is a superb view of the Louvre and the pyramid, even if it is a bit chilly to enjoy them from the terrace right now…. Spritz Aperitivo and truffle pizza, classic dishes for dinner such as tagliatelle with pistachio pesto, parmigiana, royal Milanese veal chop and vitello tonnato…. For dessert, we recommend the delicious chilled mango with apricot and white chocolate mousse. Elegant settings and a relaxed dolce vita ambiance to start the new year.

Cartier et les arts de l'Islam. Aux sources de la modernité.
Until the 20th of February 2022
Thierry Mugler. Couturissime.
Until the 24th of April 2022
Musée des Arts Décoratifs

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