Veuve Clicquot and French designer, Simon Porte Jacquemus, unveil a reinterpretation of La Grande Dame 2018, the Maison’s prestige cuvée, as a limited edition.

This limited edition is instantly recognisable for its handwritten logo and signature by Simon on an irregularly edged yellow label embossed with sun rays. The bottle is draped with white linen evoking the timeless elegance of family heirlooms that have been carefully washed, sun-dried, and starched with Marseille soap. This white linen is also a reference to an old Italian method used to keep bottles cool: a cloth is soaked in water and then wrapped around the flask to maintain its chill during hot summer days. The fluid calligraphy in yellow embroidery suggests a surreal, almost living presence, as though gently written by hand.

Bridging the codes of couture and champagne, the gift box is sheathed in a “toile du Marais” fabric with sun rays and a ribbon alternating the Veuve Clicquot logo and Simon’s signature. It reflects Simon’s innate love of objects and his belief in the poetry of everyday life.

Present throughout this collaboration, the iconic yellow of Veuve Clicquot plays a role both visually and symbolically. Here, Simon’s favourite colour illuminates the drape, like a ray of sun that rises from linen. Yellow, a symbol of joy.

At the heart of the collaboration is a shared homage to women. The story of Madame Clicquot, an exceptional woman who boldly took the reins of the House in 1805 when women had few rights – and was named ‘la grande dame de la Champagne’ after her death – captivated Simon, whose mother is his forever muse and who conveys the strength and sensuality of women through his designs.

“La Grande Dame 2018 is the outcome of simple materials, meaningful gestures, and strong women’s stories, yet it is ultimately a celebration of – and for – optimistic and memorable moments,” adds Simon. “From the bright and joyful spirit to the excellence in savoir-faire, I admire and share the same values as Veuve Clicquot.”

“It is a great honor for Veuve Clicquot to partner with such an inspiring designer as Simon Porte Jacquemus. We found common values in joy, optimism, and conviviality that the House has upheld for 250 years”, comments Jean-Marc Gallot, CEO of Veuve Clicquot. “This collaboration is a new expression of these values and of our effortless chic Art de Vivre.” 

The Limited Edition bottle will be available to purchase from 10th September at Selfridges https://selfridg.es/ckag)

Images courtesy of Veuve Clicquot X Simon Porte Jacquemus

PR agency KCD Worldwide