Bruno Legeron's great-grandfather started this flower-crafting business in 1880. You have never seen artificial flowers quite like these.

In fact, there is nothing artificial about them. Each piece, made of silk or taffeta or organza is uniquely a creation very much alive. These flowers are real, they are joyful and whimsical, elegant and sweet. When the business began, every hem, waist and lapel needed a flower. Today, clients include some of the top couture houses, including Givenchy and Christian Dior.

How does Monsieur Legeron make his flowers? Here is a brief description of the process:

1. The fabric is pinned onto a wooden frame, then dipped into a bath of gum, starch or flour (silk).

2. Once dressed, the fabric goes to the cutting press, where each flower has a different punch size. The rose size #90.

3. The petals are cut out and hand-coloured. First a background color is applied. Once dried, shades of color are added to the edges and the body of the flower to enhance it's beauty with texture and pattern.

4. Petals are left to dry completely, overnight.

5. Finally, the petals are meticulously shaped, then one by one, they are glued onto a brass stem.

If you visit this shop, you'll be leaving Paris with a flower on your beret.

ETABLISSEMENTS LEGERON
20, rue des Petits Champs
2nd Arrondisement
Metro: Opera

www.legeron.com