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Nicole de Lamargé: How a Parisian Model Became the Unofficial Face of Elle in the 1960s

Nicole de Lamargé (1938 – 1969) was more than just a model; she was a symbol of a transformative era in fashion. Though her name might not ring a bell in American fashion circles, her success in France, particularly as the face of Elle magazine, is a tale worth telling.

Discovered by Catherine Harlé in late-1950s Paris, Nicole de Lamargé quickly became the first significant star of Harlé’s agency. Starting with assignments for Jardin des Modes and Vogue, she soon found a special place with Elle, where she graced the cover 25 times. Her boyfriend, Peter Knapp, who served as Elle‘s art director, collaborated closely with her, capturing the fresh and self-assured spirit of the 1960s.

A Distinctive Style

“I use my face as a canvas,” de Lamargé once said. Her unique approach to her appearance was never stagnant. She changed her look frequently, explaining,

I keep changing my look, you see. I get very bored… I don’t think about my face anymore. It’s just instinct.

Her adaptability and creativity were key elements of her appeal. Karl Lagerfeld described her as the ‘Elle girl par excellence,’ and young models like Grace Coddington looked up to her as an idol.

De Lamargé’s success extended beyond France, as she collaborated with renowned London photographers such as Parkinson, Bailey, Duffy, and French. Her charm and charisma translated effortlessly into photographs, making her a sought-after figure in the industry.

A Tragic Ending

In 1969, de Lamargé’s life was cut tragically short. She was featured alongside Andy Warhol and the Beatles in Bailey’s tribute to the Swinging Sixties, ‘Goodbye Baby and Amen.’ The image captured her with bouffant curls, a playful tongue sticking out, and a cigarette in hand. In the index next to her name, Bailey hauntingly placed the single word ‘deceased.’

While on holiday in Morocco with her second husband, de Lamargé died in a car crash just a few months before the publication of Bailey’s work.

Her unique style, ever-changing appearance, and ability to embody the energy of a decade make her story an inspiring chapter in the annals of fashion. Her legacy continues to resonate, reflecting the breezy and confident spirit of a bygone era.

#2 Nicole de la Marge in Wool and Fur Ensemble “Stockholm” by Christian Dior, 1961

#3 Nicole de la Marge Photographed for French Elle, 1962

#4 Nicole de la Marge in Black Lace Top and Purple Tweed Skirt by Susan Small, 1964

#5 Nicole de la Marge in Tweed Amethyst and Brown Ensemble by Jaeger, 1964

#6 Nicole de la Marge in Ginger Scotch Wool Tweed Norfolk Suit by Windsmoor, 1964

#7 Nicole de la Marge in Short Cocktail Dress by Ronald Paterson, 1964

#8 Nicole de la Marge in Scarlet Wool-Mohair Dress and Jacket by Deréta, 1964

#9 Nicole de la Marge in Black & White Cloche and Dress by Polly Peck, 1965

#10 Nicole de la Marge in Black PVC Reefer by Charles MacIntosh, 1965

#11 Nicole de la Marge in Cotton Ticking Jacket and Narrow Pants, 1965

#12 Nicole de la Marge in Halter Dress by Mary Quant for Ginger Group, 1965

#13 Nicole de la Marge in Printed Cotton Dress by Noeleen King, 1965

#14 Nicole de la Marge in Printed Dress by Mary Quant for Bazaar, 1965

#15 Nicole de la Marge in Sea-Blue and Pink Floral Organza Outfit by Graham Price, 1965

#17 Nicole de la Marge in White Double-Breasted Coat by Mary Quant, 1965

#18 Nicole de la Marge in White Shetland Wool Sweater and Aqua-Sprite Trousers, 1965

#20 Nicole de la Marge in Short Belted Tunic Dress by Amy Linker, 1966

#21 Nicole de la Marge in Black Chiffon Dress by Pierre Cardin, 1966

#22 Nicole de la Marge in Green Wool Crêpe Ensemble by Jean Patou, 1966

#24 Nicole de la Marge Photographed for French Elle, 1966

#25 Nicole de la Marge in Silk Pongee Safari Suit by Nina Ricci, 1967

#26 Nicole de la Marge in Striped Poncho-Like Coat by Pierre Cardin, 1967

#28 Nicole de la Marge in Design by Pierre Cardin, 1967

#29 Nicole de la Marge in Giant Houndstooth Wool Suit by Pierre Cardin, 1967

#30 Nicole de la Marge in Jumpsuit by Andre Courrèges, 1967

#31 Nicole de la Marge Photographed by David Bailey, 1967

#32 Nicole de la Marge Photographed by F.C. Gundlach, 1967

#33 Nicole de la Marge in Striped Dress by Courrèges, 1969

Avatar of Kimberly Adams

Written by Kimberly Adams

Kimberly Adams is passionate about classic movies, actors, and actresses. She offers a fresh perspective on timeless films and the stars who made them unforgettable. Her work is an ode to the glamour and artistry of a bygone era, and a tribute to the enduring appeal of classic cinema.

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