Art.
Fashion. Inspiration.
Matisse and the
Beginning of a Legacy
The global fascination with the traditional Romanian blouse originated, not on a runway, but on canvas. Henri Matisse, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, was captivated by the elegance, symbolism, and craftsmanship of the traditional Romanian blouse.
His iconic 1940 painting, La Blouse Roumaine, stands as a tribute to this timeless garment, capturing its fluidity and ornamental richness with bold simplicity.
Matisse didn’t stop there—he revisited the blouses in several other works, drawn to its expressive power and folkloric charm. In doing so, he became the first major artist to elevate the ie into the realm of modern art, paving the way for its later adoption by the world’s most renowned fashion houses.
The global fascination with the traditional Romanian blouse originated, not on a runway, but on canvas. Henri Matisse, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, was captivated by the elegance, symbolism, and craftsmanship of the traditional Romanian blouse.
His iconic 1940 painting, La Blouse Roumaine, stands as a tribute to this timeless garment, capturing its fluidity and ornamental richness with bold simplicity.
Matisse didn’t stop there—he revisited the blouses in several other works, drawn to its expressive power and folkloric charm. In doing so, he became the first major artist to elevate the ie into the realm of modern art, paving the way for its later adoption by the world’s most renowned fashion houses.
“A Romanian blouse does not belong to any period. All the peasant clothes are passed down from century to century without going out of fashion.”
Yves Saint Laurent
YSL
In 1981, Yves Saint-Laurent brought the traditional Romanian blouse to the world of haute couture. Inspired by its flowing shape and rich embroidery, he reimagined it as a symbol of bohemian elegance. The ie became more than a folk garment — it became fashion legend.
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LV
In 2024, Louis Vuitton’s Resort collection featured a blouse nearly identical to the traditional Romanian blouse from Mărginimea Sibiului. The striking similarity sparked backlash, with Romanian artisans and cultural advocates accusing the brand of cultural appropriation. Following pressure from the Ministry of Culture and public outcry, Louis Vuitton withdrew the piece and issued an apology—highlighting the need for respect and recognition of cultural heritage in fashion.
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DIOR
In 2017, Dior's Pre-Fall collection, under Maria Grazia Chiuri, showcased garments strikingly similar to traditional Romanian attire, notably the "cojoc binşenesc" vest from Bihor. These pieces, sold at high prices, lacked acknowledgment of their cultural origins. In response, Romanian designers and the community launched the Bihor Couture initiative, promoting authentic designs and advocating for cultural recognition.
LV
In 2024, Louis Vuitton’s Resort collection featured a blouse nearly identical to the traditional Romanian blouse from Mărginimea Sibiului. The striking similarity sparked backlash, with Romanian artisans and cultural advocates accusing the brand of cultural appropriation. Following pressure from the Ministry of Culture and public outcry, Louis Vuitton withdrew the piece and issued an apology—highlighting the need for respect and recognition of cultural heritage in fashion.
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TOM FORD
RALPH LAUREN
TORY BURCH
CAROLINA HERRERA
JEAN PAUL GAULTIER
OSCAR DE LA RENTA
MANGO
CAMILLE BELLE
KATE UPTON
RACHEL WELCH
SOPHIA LOUREN
Romanian Blouse
& High Fashion
The Romanian blouse has long captured the imagination of the fashion world. Designers such as Ralph Lauren, Jean Paul Gaultier, Tom Ford and Oscar de la Renta have drawn inspiration from its distinctive silhouette and intricate embroidery. Even Sophia Loren was photographed wearing the traditional blouse, further cementing its status as a symbol of timeless elegance. From traditional craftsmanship to high fashion, the traditional Romanian blouse continues to inspire and endure.
TOM FORD
RALPH LOUREN
TORY BURCH
CAROLINA HERRERA
JEAN PAUL GAULTIER
ETRO
OSCAR DE LA RENTA
MANGO
SOPHIA LOUREN
ALTELE
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