Lanvin summer video campaign features Alber Elbaz in postmodern twist

Lanvin are certainly fans of a bizarre video concept, whether it’s superstar models dancing to Pitbull or their casting style interviews for Fall/Winter 2012 featuring Lanvin-clad characters exploring their own idiosyncracies (the film includes such gems as “I eat a lot of frozen blueberries”). 

The latest video produced by the brand, and shot by famed fashion photographer Steven Meisel, comes with a typically post-modern twist. Saskia de Brauw, Karlie Kloss and Daria Strokous appear alongside a cast of waif-like male models in 1970s Hollywood-style video sequences which match the aesthetic of the brand’s print campaign.  

Then Alber Elbaz, the brand’s creative director suddenly appears in the corner of the screen as if he’s using Skype to discuss the shoot. The Moroccan-born Israeli fashion designer starts to comment on the video: “I cannot tell about the makeup – it’s not lipstick right?” he asks, playing the fashion ingénue. 

Still shots from the campaign appear over the top of the video next to the models, which definitely gets his approval “love! love! love! J’adore!” he exclaims, “it’s California at its best!”. 

Meta-comic flop or witty swipe at 21st century advertising — either way, Lanvin’s legions of fans aren’t likely to be disappointed. 

JT