Museum of lace and fashion

The Museum of Lace and Fashion, located in the Saint Pierre district of Calais, is an international landmark that traces the evolution of the lace industry, rooted in the history of the city. This industrial site, in operation until 2000, is one of the last proof of the “collective” factories in Calais. A recognized symbol of French luxury, lace influenced Calais and contributed to the shaping of the southern part of the city.

Yves Saint Laurent EXHIBITION : Transparences
JUNE 24 TO NOVEMBER 12, 2023

In 2023, the Calais Musem of Lace and Fashion highlights the work of Yves Saint Laurent, a major couturier of the 20th century. The exhibition is co-produced with the Yves Saint Laurent Paris Museum.

The theme of transparency is the focal point of an unprecedented collaboration between the two museums revealing how the couturier has been able to overturn the codes of the unveiling of the female body. Through some sixty models from the collections of the Pierre Bergé - Yves Saint Laurent Foundation and the Museum for Lace and Fashion, complemented by accessories, drawings, photographs and videos, the exhibition demonstrates how Yves Saint Laurent has been able to use the transparent effects of fabrics to propose a figure of a new woman, powerful and sensual.

Exposition permanente de la Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode de Calais

Fashion and industrial museum

Located at the heart of an authentic lace factory from the 1870s, the place combines the role of a fashion museum and an industrial museum by promoting techniques, lingerie and haute couture, but also the most contemporary aspects of this high-end textile. The exhibition galleries are divided into 5 spaces over 2,500 m2. Collections of dresses and accessories signed by great couturiers such as Poiret, Paquin, Dior, Givenchy or Chanel are exhibited as well as lingerie models.

Métiers leavers visibles lors de la visite de la Cité de la Dentelle de Calais

Permanent and temporary exhibitions

The Museum of Lace and Fashion is a must-see when visiting Calais. It offers permanent exhibitions in large galleries, but also temporary exhibitions that give pride of place to today’s creators. Not to be missed under any circumstances, the highlight of the visit: the operation of the lace looms. Discover this profession told with passion and finish your visit in front of the cast iron machines that give birth to this exceptional fabric!

The Museum of Lace and Fashion offers many activities throughout the year for adults or children. The program includes cultural activities for families, exchanges-meetings, textile workshops, guided tours, as well as artistic interventions and shows. And why not let yourself be tempted by the introductory workshops in lace-making techniques and fashion and design creation!