Sociedad Textil Lonia (STL) has acquired the Christian Lacroix brand, aiming to restore its former prestige and expand its presence in the luxury fashion market. The deal, secured from the US-based Falic Group, is a strategic move to enhance STL's portfolio with a historically significant haute couture label.
The Spanish fashion conglomerate Sociedad Textil Lonia (STL) announced on Tuesday that it has reached an agreement to acquire the Christian Lacroix brand, with the goal of reviving the once-iconic label to its former glory. The deal, made with the US-based Falic Group, which specializes in duty-free retail, was a “private transaction,” with the financial details remaining undisclosed.
In a statement, STL emphasized that acquiring Maison Lacroix—famed for its archives and storied history in French haute couture—would significantly enhance its brand portfolio and solidify its international presence in high fashion. “We will do everything we can to ensure that the unique talent of its creator and his invaluable contribution to the world of fashion reach their full potential,” the group added.
Founded in 1987 by the designer himself with backing from the luxury conglomerate LVMH, Christian Lacroix quickly became one of the most celebrated names in haute couture. However, LVMH sold the brand to the Falic Group in 2005, and the company faced significant financial challenges in 2009. These difficulties led to a court-ordered restructuring that resulted in substantial layoffs and the closure of its haute couture division. Lacroix, now 73, departed the company in 2010. In the years following, he shifted his focus to designing for ballet and opera productions, as well as collaborating with other designers such as Dries Van Noten.
Reflecting on the acquisition, Lacroix shared his appreciation for STL’s approach. "The Spanish family that owns STL had the elegance to contact me ahead of the official announcement about the acquisition of the Christian Lacroix name and archives," he told Vogue Business. "We will probably meet soon in an informal way," he added.
Founded in 1997, STL is a major player in the Spanish fashion industry, known for brands such as Purificacion Garcia and Carolina Herrera. The group operates 600 stores across the globe and employs over 2,500 people. The acquisition of Christian Lacroix marks an ambitious strategic move as STL looks to further expand its influence in the luxury fashion sector. The decision to restore the Lacroix brand also highlights STL’s focus on heritage and craftsmanship, tapping into the growing demand for luxury brands with rich cultural legacies.
Lacroix, who once dressed royalty, celebrities, and cultural icons, remains a legendary figure in fashion history. His bold, theatrical designs—often characterized by vivid colors, lavish fabrics, and intricate embroidery—remain a symbol of the exuberance and craftsmanship of 1990s haute couture. Despite facing financial setbacks in recent years, the brand still carries a unique cultural weight, making it a valuable asset in STL’s efforts to diversify and strengthen its luxury portfolio.
With AFP
Comments