Renowned fashion designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac has taken on a sacred mission: to clothe the clergy of Notre Dame Cathedral for its highly anticipated reopening. The designer, known for his bold and colourful aesthetic, has infused traditional liturgical garments with a modern twist, creating a collection that is both reverent and revolutionary.
Castelbajac’s personal connection to the cathedral runs deep. The 2019 fire that ravaged the iconic landmark ignited a profound sense of loss and a desire to contribute to its restoration. When approached by the Paris Archbishop to design the liturgical garments, Castelbajac saw it as a divine calling.
The resulting collection, crafted in collaboration with the artisans of 19M studio, blends Castelbajac’s signature pop-art style with mediaeval influences. The garments, predominantly made of thick off-white Scottish wool gabardine, feature large gold crosses accented by vibrant colour-blocked velvet. This juxtaposition of tradition and modernity reflects the cathedral’s own journey of destruction and rebirth.
Castelbajac’s fascination with coloured stems from his childhood experiences. Growing up in a strict military boarding school, he found solace in the vibrant hues of stained glass and heraldry. This early exposure to colour has shaped his artistic vision and continues to inspire his work.
The designer’s ability to blend high fashion with religious symbolism has earned him recognition from pop culture icons like Madonna, Beyoncé, and Rihanna. His collaboration with Notre Dame marks a new chapter in his career, one that is both personal and profound.
As the cathedral prepares to welcome worshippers once again, Castelbajac’s vibrant liturgical garments will undoubtedly be a highlight of the reopening. They symbolise hope, renewal, and the enduring power of human creativity.
