Jean-Marie Armand was born about 1930. He worked as an assistant designer for Nina Ricci in the 1950s and continued there for 7 years. In 1960, he was hired as the designer for Madelaine de Rauch. His first solo collection for de Rauch was in January 1961, and he was promoted as the next great talent, but the line was a huge flop, as it showed nothing new or innovative. In fact, it featured tailored suits, coats and dresses too similar to the designs he produced at Nina Ricci. In July 1965, Armand opened his own small couture house in Paris, that was known for its Mod look. His designs were very architectural and modern, similar to those of Cardin and Courreges. He was known for his quadrangular skirt designs that were made with 4 panels whose seams formed an angular shape, and for never using buttons, as he felt they ruined the line of a garment. His coats always closed with hidden snaps. Armand reached the height of his career in 1968-1969. His couture house was open until at least 1971, but he disappears from press mention after that.
Written by Couture Allure
from a late 1960s coat
Courtesy of Couture Allure
