Gilles Montezin: The Secret of Le Cinch

Gilles Montezin, former costume designer for The Opera Bastille in Paris, has recently launched his first ever bridal collection for 2009. You may already recognize his work from his epynonymous line, which he started in 2004, or because it is seen on the likes of Sarah Jessica Parker.

The launch of this line is exciting not just for the sharp eye for tailoring and impeccable attention to detail that Montezin brings to his work, but also because he has made spectacular strides in women’s undergirding. The man has reinvented the corset.

No, I’m not entirely sure we should thank him, either, but as long as they stay in bridal wear and costumes, I’m fine with corsets. Especially if they are, as the line promises, “less confining and achieve the perfect hourglass silhouette with unprecedented comfort.”

Well, I’ll believe this whole comfortable corset thing when I wear it, but judging on looks alone, Montezin really has something here. The silhoettes are all, as you might guess, wasp-waisted and extremely flattering, the fabrics are rich and luxe, and the overall aesthetic is refined and glamorous.

All of the gowns have opera-related names. The dress above is called the Juliet (as in Romeo and…), and the dress below is the Puccini. Come to think of it, if Montezin can make corseted gowns that opera stars can stand to sing in, he’s probably got something figured out. He calls it “Le Cinch”, and it’s a built-in corseting device that promises the perfect hourglass.

Le Cinch promises women an instant 2-4 inch reduction in waistline, and will be available in sizes up to 18, and custom made for larger sizes. Available from Gilles Montezin.

Photo Credit: Gilles Montezin