Combining art and fashion – is there anything better? – Roger Vivier Icons Connected, a travelling exhibition, will arrive in the Middle East at The Dubai Mall.

From May 3 to May 14, the exhibition Roger Vivier Icons Connected will pay tribute to the memorable story of legendary shoemaker, Roger Vivier (1907-1998), documenting his dominance in the fashion industry from the 1930s until today.

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The exhibit will showcase accessories that best represent the luxury, French brand’s history alongside iconic images and vintage pieces that capture the maison’s most celebrated milestones.

Roger Vivier muse Ines de la Fressange

Roger Vivier muse Ines de la Fressange wearing Vivier shoes

Of course, the protagonist of the exhibition is Roger Vivier, the visionary founder who designed  shoes with elegance, and comfort in mind. He is most famous for inventing the stiletto.

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So revered was Vivier and his shoemaking skills that his many fans included actress Ava Gardner, socialite  Gloria Guinness and The Beatles. Roger Vivier was even popular among royalty, and was commissioned to design shoes for Queen Elizabeth II for her coronation.

Queen Elizabeth II's coronation shoes by Roger Vivier

Queen Elizabeth II’s 1953 coronation shoes by Roger Vivier

Also celebrated in the exhibition are Creative Director Bruno Frisoni and Brand Ambassador Ines de la Fressange who have both been at the helm of the house since 2003 when Diego Della Valle, owner and founder of Tod’s Group, bought the Roger Vivier name to revive it.

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Since Frisoni’s appointment in 2003, he has successfully added a modern twist to Vivier’s signature styles, including the buckle pump made famous by Catherine Deneuve in the classic film Belle du Jour in 1967.

Ines de la Fressange & Bruno Frisoni Pic credit: Anna Bauer

Ines de la Fressange & Bruno Frisoni Pic credit: Anna Bauer

“This exhibition celebrates the history of the venerated house, and charts its evolution from a carriage trade shoe brand to a sophisticated, contemporary Parisian luxury accessories brand with global reach,” said a Roger Vivier spokesperson. “The Vivier universe will be on display in a 12-chapter tale within The Dubai Mall for two weeks featuring iconic pieces from the heritage of the brand to the most contemporary ones.”

Roger Vivier is famous for designing the stiletto

Roger Vivier is famous for designing the stiletto

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Key pieces on display will include Elizabeth Taylor’s shoes from 1963, Brigitte Bardot’s thigh-high boots from 1967, and Queen Elizabeth’s 1953 coronation shoes.

Monsieur-Roger-Vivier

Monsieur Roger Vivier Pic credit: Ian Patrick

Roger Vivier Icons Connected exhibition will run in The Dubai Mall from May 2 to May 14. Roger Vivier is available in Level Shoe District at The Dubai Mall (Dubai)

Roger Vivier Store in Level Shoe District Dubai

Roger Vivier Store in Level Shoe District Dubai