How to tell if Charles Jourdan is vintage

Charles Jourdan is a name synonymous with luxury, innovation, and timeless design in the world of fashion, particularly women’s footwear. Founded by the French shoemaker of the same name in 1919, the brand’s rise to prominence was swift, largely due to Jourdan’s dedication to quality craftsmanship and his forward-thinking approach to marketing. By the 1930s, Charles Jourdan was one of the first to advertise in high-end fashion magazines, a bold move that solidified the brand’s status as a trailblazer in haute couture. This marked the beginning of a legacy that would continue long after Jourdan’s passing in 1976, under the leadership of his sons.

The post-war years saw the brand expand internationally, with its first boutique opening in Paris in 1957, and collaborations with major fashion houses such as Christian Dior further cementing its reputation for elegance and innovation. The 1960s and 1970s were particularly defining decades for Charles Jourdan, with its avant-garde advertising campaigns featuring surrealist imagery by Guy Bourdin, pushing the boundaries of fashion and art. It was during this period that the brand became known for its daring use of new materials and bold designs, setting trends that would influence the fashion industry for decades to come.

Despite facing financial difficulties in the early 2000s, the legacy of Charles Jourdan endures. From iconic stiletto heels favored by Princess Diana to collaborations with avant-garde designers like Josephus Thimister, the brand’s impact on the world of luxury footwear is undeniable. Today, vintage Charles Jourdan pieces are highly sought after, cherished not only for their craftsmanship but also for their place in fashion history. Whether through its groundbreaking designs or its enduring allure, Charles Jourdan remains a symbol of elegance and innovation.

1986 Charles Jourdan TV Commercial

How to tell if Charles Jourdan is vintage from the logo

Charles Jourdan is a luxury French shoe brand that has garnered attention for its timeless designs and bold approach to fashion. Over the years, the logo of the brand has evolved, reflecting different phases of its history. Determining if your Charles Jourdan item is vintage can often be done by examining the logo. Here, we will focus on the logo from 1960s to the present day.

1960s to now Charles Jourdan logo

• The logo features a stylized “CJ” emblem above the brand name.
• The emblem is a modern, minimalist design, with a geometric look that has remained consistent through the years.
• The font used for “CHARLES JOURDAN” is in all capital letters, sleek and simple, giving it a timeless, elegant look.
• “Paris” is included beneath the brand name in a smaller, more playful font, adding a sense of luxury and sophistication.
• The logo has remained relatively unchanged since the 1960s, contributing to its enduring brand identity, with subtle refinements over time.

How to tell if Charles Jourdan is vintage from the tags

Charles Jourdan, a renowned French footwear and fashion brand, has evolved in its branding over the decades. Its tags have undergone significant changes, reflecting the era’s design trends and the brand’s direction. These subtle differences in font, layout, and materials can help identify the vintage era of a Charles Jourdan piece. Below is a guide to identifying vintage Charles Jourdan tags from different decades, based on the images provided.

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1970s vintage Charles Jourdan tags

• Classic serif font with “Made in France” prominently displayed.
• The brand name “Charles Jourdan Paris” is often featured in all caps, with a minimalistic design approach.
• Tags are typically made from fabric, but some variations include printed leather for footwear.
• Tags emphasize the Parisian origin, reflecting the luxury and quality associated with French craftsmanship.

1980s vintage Charles Jourdan tags

• The brand name “Charles Jourdan Paris” is still a focal point, but the font becomes bolder.
• Tags often include a mixture of fabric and leather materials, especially on footwear and clothing.
• “Made in France” remains a key feature, reinforcing the brand’s heritage.
• Some variations feature a more stylized presentation, possibly influenced by the fashion trends of the 1980s.

1990s vintage Charles Jourdan tags

• Tags are often simple and sleek, with “Charles Jourdan Paris” printed in a modern sans-serif font.
• While the branding remains consistent, the 1990s tags exhibit a more understated approach compared to earlier decades.
• The “Made in France” detail continues to be included, reinforcing the high-quality French craftsmanship.
• Materials for tags remain versatile, from soft fabric to more durable leather tags, especially on footwear.