Anne Marie Cassandre

Anne Marie Cassandre, born on August 30, 1943, in Lyon, France, was a renowned Hermès scarf designer known for her vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and bold, contemporary designs. The daughter of a textile factory owner, Anne Marie was exposed to the world of fabrics and design at an early age. Her natural artistic talent and passion for colors soon led her to pursue a formal education in design.

In 1961, Anne Marie enrolled at the prestigious École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where she studied textile and graphic design. During her time at the school, she was heavily influenced by the works of modern artists such as Henri Matisse, Joan Miró, and Wassily Kandinsky. Their use of bold colors and abstract shapes would later become a defining characteristic of Anne Marie’s designs.

After graduating in 1966, Anne Marie began her career as a freelance textile designer, creating patterns for various fashion houses in Paris. Her talent was quickly recognized, and in 1970, she was offered a position at Hermès as a scarf designer. This opportunity catapulted her career and solidified her place in the world of high fashion.

Anne Marie’s first scarf design for Hermès, “Labyrinthe des Couleurs,” was introduced in 1971 and was an instant success. The intricate, abstract design combined with the vibrant colors became a trademark of her work. Over the next few decades, Anne Marie would design over 50 iconic scarves for Hermès, each one showcasing her unique artistic vision.

Some of her designs include Perspective and Littérature. These scarves have become highly sought-after collector’s items, and Anne Marie’s work has been praised for its exceptional attention to detail and her ability to create a sense of movement and depth in her designs.

Anne Marie was known not only for her incredible talent but also for her warm personality and dedication to her craft. She married fellow artist and graphic designer, Paul Cassandre, in 1968, and they had two children together, Isabelle and Philippe. Their shared love for art and design led them to collaborate on various projects throughout their lives, including creating a series of limited edition prints and working together on interior design projects.

After a long and successful career, Anne Marie retired from Hermès in 2008. She continued to create art and remained active in the design community, mentoring young designers and participating in various art exhibitions. On June 12, 2016, Anne Marie Cassandre passed away at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled creativity and artistic innovation.

Today, her designs continue to be celebrated and admired by art enthusiasts and fashion connoisseurs alike. The unique vision and extraordinary talent of Anne Marie Cassandre will forever be remembered as an integral part of the history of Hermès and the world of luxury fashion.