The storied legacy of Roger Vivier was celebrated recently with the unveiling of the brand’s archives at the newly opened Maison Vivier in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris. Founded in 1937 by the innovative designer himself, the Maison now offers a rare insight into nearly a century of luxury footwear craftsmanship and its cultural significance.
The Maison, housed in an exquisite 18th-century hôtel particulier, invites guests to explore its historic salons, displays, and ateliers, including the highlight—La Salle des Archives. For the first time, visitors can appreciate the extensive collection of Roger Vivier’s creations, which have adorned the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, Jackie Kennedy, and Audrey Hepburn.
Gherardo Felloni, the brand’s Creative Director since 2018, emphasizes the importance of sharing this rich heritage. “Opening the archives, even by invitation only, was an act of generosity and responsibility,” he stated. “It felt essential to share it with those who approach it with genuine curiosity: students, researchers, journalists, and passionate clients.”
In collaboration with longtime ambassador and muse Inès de la Fressange, Felloni has curated the Maison’s interiors and exhibits to reflect Vivier’s distinctive aesthetic. De la Fressange noted, “Roger Vivier had a great sense of decoration and also a lot of imagination, originality and freedom.” She highlighted the eclectic mix of 18th-century pieces paired with contemporary art that Vivier was known for, stating, “All that is beautiful can cohabit.”
The preservation of the archives, particularly in La Salle des Archives, posed unique challenges. De la Fressange explained the need for strict environmental controls to protect the delicate items. “The basement where we keep the archives needed to be protected from the rays of sun, and the temperature of the room needed to remain the same.”
The process of sourcing archival pieces has been described as “meticulous” by Felloni. Items have been uncovered in unexpected places, including private collections and the homes of former artisans. “Each discovery feels like recovering a missing piece of the Maison’s soul,” he remarked. The archive now houses over 1,000 objects, including original sketches, photographs, and prototypes, with notable highlights such as the shoes worn by Queen Elizabeth II for her Coronation.
Reflecting on his personal connection to the archives, Felloni expressed his fondness for the pink Virgule heel. “Having found the actual prototype in the archive felt like the past folding into the present,” he shared. “It reminded me why I had come to this Maison: because Roger Vivier believed in a kind of creativity that was free, audacious, and filled with imagination.”
De la Fressange also found inspiration in the enduring appeal of many archival designs. “There are some items I would love to wear even today,” she stated, highlighting a pair of brown low boots that blend elegance and rock ‘n’ roll. “It will be important for me to show to students of fashion schools that fashion is made of creativity, happiness, research, culture, and even sometimes bad taste.”
The Maison Vivier is located at 98 Rue de l’Université in Paris, and visits are available by appointment only. Further information can be found at the brand’s official website, rogervivier.com. The opening of these archives marks a significant moment in preserving and sharing the rich history of one of the most influential names in footwear design.
