Paris (France) – French fashion icon Sonia Rykiel's exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris celebrates the couturière’s work, marking the 40th anniversary of her fashion house.

This is the first major retrospective devoted to a woman who was a pioneer of contemporary clothing, who rejected haute couture in the wake of prêt-à–porter.

If her designs have withstood the test of time so well, this is because they embraced their era so completely. Rykiel is well known for using figure-hugging black fabrics in the late 60s, exposing the insides and unfinished hems of her garments, and even daring to use materials such as sponge.

Arranged according to the themes that make her so recognizable: black, stripes, lace, strass, and sweaters with written messages, the exhibition (until April 19) features some 220 outfits, from 1968 to present-day, fashion photographs by the likes of Dominique Isserman and Sarah Moon, and videos of her fashion shows.  Milan (Italy) – Missoni and Valentino Fashion Group have announced the renewal of their partnership agreement, for the next ten years, conceived in order to expand M Missoni, the second line of the fashion house founded in 1953 by Ottavio and Rosita Missoni.

Stefano Sassi, CEO of VFG commented, "For the Valentino Fashion Group, M Missoni represents a brand that perfectly combines high creative contents along with an impeccable quality."

The ten year agreement between the two companies, first established in 2005, proved successful from the start. Missoni and VFG have worked closely together in order to strengthen the Missoni brand's notoriety at a global level, defining its image and bringing it closer to the customer.