018: MICHELE LAMY & the art of the pivot
Being a creative person has its ebbs and flows, twists and turns, and you never really know where life will land you next. But when you have a strong foundation in who you are, what you believe in, and what you stand for, you can adapt to unique situations and try your hand at different crafts without completely uprooting who you are. On the other hand, too often, we see examples of people whose morals, societal stances, and belief systems change with their hobbies or passion projects. Those who fall into the former category are able to do whatever they want and always keep one foot solid and grounded. Personally, it is important that I be this type of person in order to live a genuinely fulfilling life because I don’t want to reach the end without my SELF intact. Someone who I find truly inspirational in this aspect is none other than the muse behind this blog post... muse of muses.
When you think MUSE, you should think of another M word immediately after: Michèle. Michèle Lamy (muh·shel laa·mee), one who has redefined inspiration. Her journey from the halls of a French law school to the forefront of avant-garde fashion is a story of bold choices and creative reinvention while always staying true to HER.
Michèle Lamy’s path to becoming a fashion icon began in an unexpected place: criminal law. In her early years, she pursued a traditional education, studying law in France. It was a logical choice and despite her academic success, is path didn’t quite fit the mold of her imaginative spirit so, she "abandoned [her] studies in a daring pivot into the world of stripteasing and cabaret. You read that right. She took it further and used the Parisian world of cabaret as a stepping stool, immersing herself in the vibrant and theatrical world of performance art. This period was crucial in shaping her creative outlook and visual sensibilities.
This time as a performer not only allowed her to explore her artistic side but also connected her with a network of creatives and visionaries. Seeking new adventures and creative opportunities, she moved to Los Angeles, where she ran Les Deux Cafés, a cabaret that became a hotspot for artists, musicians, and creatives. I want to time travel and see what this place was like. This would seemingly set the stage for all of her future endeavors.
Michele’s legal background provided her with a unique perspective on structure, discipline, and human nature while her experiences as a dancer infused her with a sense of performance, drama, and unapologetic outward expression. Her cabaret in Los Angeles exposed her to a diverse array of influences, from the bohemian lifestyle to the underground art scene, all of which fueled her blooming creative expression. At this point her skillset is so unique and unorthodox, which is why I would say all of her ventures come together and serve as the metamorphosis that is Michele. To continuously and creatively pivot while staying true to your core is to be living art. You are painting the full picture that is you, allowing your wildest dreams to reach the 3d.
Lamy’s rise to prominence in the fashion world was catalyzed by her partnership with designer Rick Owens. She was already doing her own thing, as boss btchz do, but their meeting at her growing fashion house, Lamy, in 1984 marked the beginning of a dynamic collaboration that would redefine contemporary fashion. Her distinctive style and Owens’ minimalist standpoint complemented each other perfectly, resulting in some of the most innovative and influential collections in modern avant-garde history.
Michèle Lamy’s personal style is a blend of the eclectic and the primal, characterized by her layered garments, heavy jewelry, tattooed fingers, and the infamous line down her forehead which she draws on "with an pencil and makes sure it's not too straight." This distinctive look is not just a fashion statement but a reflection of her life’s journey. It builds upon itself. Most of her rings are gifts from friends over the course of life. Her philosophy emphasizes the importance of authenticity and creativity, rejecting conventional norms in favor of personal expression. And I STRONGLY second that.
My muse today is a testament to the power of following one’s passions and staying true to who you are. Her story is one of fearless creativity, where each choice she made was a step towards going deeper into her true self. Michèle Lamy’s influence on the fashion world and creatives of all disciplines is profound, and her journey continues to inspire.
Rlly don't care what anyone says about this crazy lady! She's insane, yes. The paradox lies in the fact that Michele never really seems to give a damn while always remaining deeply passionate about her endeavors and deeply educated on these topics. The f^ck$ immediately halt at what everyone is going to think or accept. Thats freedom. Its imperative as a creative.
xoxo, V mf C!
