Visionary designer Paco Rabanne first made a name for himself in the 1960s when he introduced dresses, handbags and other clothing and accessories that went against the common sensibilities of the time and challenged the public's perception of what fashion should be. By working with unlikely materials such as paper and Rhodoid — a cellulose acetate plastic often used to line baking pans — Rabanne forced the fashion world to reconsider materials and form.
Rabanne was born Francisco Rabaneda y Cuervo in Spain’s Basque region. His mother was the head seamstress at Balenciaga when she relocated herself and her son to France in 1939 to escape the Spanish Civil War. Once in France, he took on the name Paco Rabanne.
Rabanne studied architecture at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris but pivoted toward fashion and began to design accessories and costume jewelry. Rabanne collaborated with many acclaimed luxury houses — his early clients included Charles Jourdan, Givenchy, Pierre Cardin and Dior.
By 1966, Rabanne was working on avant-garde designs in his own newly-opened studio. He introduced a couture collection titled “Twelve Unwearable Dresses in Contemporary Materials.” The garments — made of aluminum, plastic and eco-friendly paper and fastened with wire — were unveiled at a show that featured music and models of color (both uncommon characteristics for such an event). Sculptural, sexy and solidly Space Age in appearance, Rabanne’s experiments turned heads. Pop star-actresses Brigitte Bardot and Françoise Hardy would soon be seen in the designer’s iconic metallic dresses, and Rabanne found enthusiasts in the likes of revolutionary couturier Elsa Schiaparelli and art collector Peggy Guggenheim. In 1968 Rabanne designed leather boots and erotically charged dresses made of molded plastic and chain-mail mesh for the science fiction film Barbarella.
Rabanne called Salvador Dalí a close friend and drew on the Surrealist movement in his designs. He continued to use unconventional materials in his work. From aluminum jersey and fur to ostrich feathers and Velcro, everything was suitable for his pioneering garments. And Rabanne’s talents are diverse — his prolific output even includes stylish furniture.
In 1999 Rabanne retired from the fashion business. In 2010 he was named Officer of the Legion d’Honneur by the French culture minister. Today, under the creative direction of French designer Julien Dossena, the Paco Rabanne brand continues to innovate and offer looks that nod to the past as well as the future.
Find vintage Paco Rabanne clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
PACO RABANNE Museum Worthy Showpiece Angel Wings Sequin Hat
By Paco Rabanne
Located in New York, NY
PACO RABANNE Museum Worthy Showpiece Angel Wings Sequin Top Hat Each sequence carefully overlapped to mimic the texture of feathers. No label .Sourced from France many years ago R...
Paco Rabanne Scarf Metal Mesh Rhinestones Triangle
By Paco Rabanne
Located in 'S-HERTOGENBOSCH, NL
A rare H&M for Paco Rabanne Metal Mesh Triangle Scarf, this limited edition masterpiece fuses futuristic artistry with wearable couture, crafted from shimmering metal mesh adorne...
Paco Rabanne coat of mail scarf 2024
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
PACO RABANNE - (Made in Madagascar) Pixel-design coat-of-mail scarf. Press stud fastening. 2024 Spring-Summer Collection by Julien Dossena. Condition: Very good condition Dimension...
An Early Paco Rabanne Couture Metallic Belt Circa 1970/1980
By Paco Rabanne
Located in Toulon, FR
France Circa 1970/1980 France Paco Rabanne original belt in white metal discs. Hook closure. Some tiny scratches on the metal otherwise perfect condition of conservation. Dimensio...
80s Paco Rabanne Multi Color Metal Disc Large Belt
By Paco Rabanne
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Vintage Rare Paco Rabanne Multi Color Metal Disc chain belt in turquoise blue, mustard yellow and Plum color. Belt can be worn as necklace.
Vintage PACO RABANNE Logo Metal Disc Space Age Belt
By Paco Rabanne
Located in Kingersheim, Alsace
Vintage PACO RABANNE Logo Metal Disc Space Age Belt Measurements: Buckle Height: 2.59 inches (6.6 cm) Belt Height: 2.16 inches (5.5 cm) Overall Length:...
1990s Contemporary Stylized Horses Silk Scarf by Paco Rabanne
By Paco Rabanne
Located in Aci Castello, IT
This rare 1990s Paco Rabanne silk scarf is a sophisticated example of the designer’s ability to merge classical motifs with a sharp, contemporary edge. The centerpiece of the design ...
Vintage Iconic PACO RABANNE Space Age Rigid Metal Wide Belt
By Paco Rabanne
Located in Kingersheim, Alsace
Vintage Iconic PACO RABANNE Space Age Rigid Metal Wide Belt Measurements: Height: 2.32 inches (5.9 cm) Wearable Length: 29.52 inches (75 cm) Overall Lengt...
Brushed metal Saharienne style belt by Paco Rabanne (attributed to) - France Cir
By Paco Rabanne
Located in Toulon, FR
Circa 1968-1972 France Prototype belt by Paco Rabanne (attributed to) with brushed metal discs dating from the late 1960s. Large square links with large circular perforations, connec...
Paco Rabanne Rich Shades of Browns and Yellow Striped Center Silk Scarf
By Paco Rabanne
Located in New York, NY
Paco Rabanne wonderfully rich shades of browns and yellow accented with black surrounding a striped center silk scarf measures 30 inches by 31 inches. Edges are hand-rolled and ...
Belt Paco Rabanne Fluorescent Leather Belt, 1968
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Paco Rabanne - Fluorescent colored leather belt. Accessory dating from the 1968 collection. To note, presence of stains on the leather. Not signed. Additional information: Dimensi...
Paco Rabanne Vintage Women's Belt 1990s 70 cm Black Leather
Paco Rabanne Silk Foulard with Flowers and Animals
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
PACO RABANNE - (Made in France) Silk foulard illustrated with flowers and animals. To be mentioned, one of the topstitched edge is unstitched. Additional information: Condition: Goo...
Paco Rabanne belt-necklace
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
PACO RABANNE - Metallic pastilles belt in yellow, blue, and burgundy tones. A Collection from the 1980s under the artistic direction of Paco Rabanne. Condition: Very good condition ...
Paco Rabanne White Leather Belt
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
PACO RABANNE - White leather belt with golden metal. Additional information: Condition: Good condition Dimensions: Total length: 98 cm Seller Reference: ACC74
Mark Cross Belt with Enameled Turtles From the Estate of Pauline Trigère
By Mark Cross
Located in valatie, NY
Ladies Leather Belt with Enameled Turtles Made by Mark Cross Midtown. Marked "Mark Cross Midtown" with Mark Cross' Logo on the back of the belt. Also marked "32" and "1793." Purchase...
Hermes 'Rives Fertiles' Silk Scarf 90cm x 90cm
By Hermès
Located in Glasgow, GB
Silk scarf from Hermes. Designed by Christine Henry in 2005, a year designated by Hermes as The Year of The River, the design is inspired by the Fertile Crescent, featuring a scene o...
Manolo Blahnik Gray Leather Floral Applique Kitten Heel Mules Size 36.5
By Manolo Blahnik
Located in San Jose, CA
Authentic Manolo Blahnik mule heels in a timeless Y2K silhouette with a feminine floral twist. Crafted in smooth gray leather with layered floral appliqué...
Black Mink Skinny Scarf Boa Belt with Finger Fringe – 64", 1950s
By Ira Berg
Located in Tucson, AZ
Fur shoulder cowls are as timeless as a set of pearls; supremely ladylike, tasteful and essential with strapless dresses, they will never go out of style. The narrow design permits styling as scarf or belt, and the quilted satin lining is a subtle ode to Chanel: a slice of luxury heaven! Black mink skinny scarf...
Yves Saint Laurent Wool Belt
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Glasgow, GB
Grey wool belt from Yves Saint Laurent. With black acetate double buckle feature and brassy toned hardware. Made in Italy. Serial Number: 169475-1476-80-32. Dimensions: 4.5cm x 94cm....
Judith Leiber 1980s Swarovski Teddy Bear Belt
By Judith Leiber
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Get your hands on the Judith Leiber 1980s Swarovski Crystal Teddy Bear Belt—a whimsical and charming accessory that combines playful design with luxurious craftsmanship. The standout...
Emilio Pucci Silk Pink & Purple Abstract Printed Scarf
By Emilio Pucci
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Step into a world of vibrant style with this Emilio Pucci Vintage Silk Pink & Purple Abstract Printed Scarf, a quintessential piece that embodies...
MCM Black Visetos Monogram Belt With Gold-Plated Logo Laurel Buckle Size S
By MCM
Located in Munich, DE
This 1980s MCM waist belt dates from that period when the company still belonged to its founder Michael Cromer. The black design is crafted from the bra...
1960s Christian Dior Black Felt Derby Hat
By Christian Dior
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The Perfect Winter Hat Has Arrived! Circa 1960s, this Dior derby style hat features a porkpie brim. The crown of the hat and the outer trim of the brim are...
S/S 1988 Gianni Versace Ad Oversized Rhinestone Black Ribbed Satin Black Leather
By Gianni Versace
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Presenting a stunning black wide Gianni Versace belt, designed by Gianni Versace. From the Spring/Summer 1988 collection, this beautiful cloth belt features a ribbed fabric at the st...
HERMES c.1980's Burgundy Lizard Skin Leather Equestrian Ring Belt Gold Hardware
By Hermès, ERIC BERGERE
Located in Thiensville, WI
Hermes c.1980's Burgundy Lizard Skin Leather Equestrian Ring Belt Gold Hardware Brand / Manufacturer: Hermes Designer: Eric Bergere Circa: 1980's Sty...
HERMES Hugo Grygkar Brides de Gala brown white print silk scarf 90cm
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES Hugo Grygkar Brides de Gala brown white print silk scarf 90cm Reference: AEMA/A00075 Brand: Hermes Model: Hugo Grygkar Brides de Gala Material: Silk...
Paco Rabanne hat spring 2022
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
PACO RABANNE - Pink coat-of-mail hat with fringes. 2022 Spring-Summer Collection under the direction of Julien Dossena. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Diameter: about 5...
Paco Rabanne Silvery Belt, 1970s
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Paco Rabanne - Silvery metal articulated belt. Not signed piece from the 1970s. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Length: from 77 cm to 85 cm Period...
Paco Rabanne Silvery Metal Articulated Belt, 1970s
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Paco Rabanne - Silvery metal articulated belt. Not signed piece from the 1970s. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Length: from 83 cm to 97 cm Period...
Paco Rabanne Leather and Steel Belt 80
By Paco Rabanne
Located in Gazzaniga (BG), IT
Leather Black color Large oval steel buckle Buckle size cm 15,5 x 12,5 Leather height cm 4 (1,57 inches) Total length cm 110 (43,3 inches) Size 80 / M Worldwide express shipping in...
Paco Rabanne Red and Orange Sunglasses
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Paco Rabanne - Red and orange sunglasses with the signature Paco Rabanne x Linda Parrow. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Width: 17 cm Seller Refe...
Paco Rabanne Golden Metal Belt
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
PACO RABANNE - Leather belt with golden metal. Additional information: Condition: Good condition Dimensions: Total length: 98 cm Seller Reference: ACC67
Paco Rabanne Blue Sunglasses
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
PACO RABANNE - Blue sunglasses by Paco Rabanne x Linda Parrow. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Width: 17 cm Seller Reference: ACC89
Paco Rabanne Black Leather Belt
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
PACO RABANNE - Leather belt with black metal. Additional information: Condition: Good condition Dimensions: Total length: 98 cm Seller Reference: ACC138
Paco Rabanne Black and White Sunglasses
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
PACO RABANNE - Black and white sunglasses by Paco Rabanne x Linda Parrow. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Width: 17 cm Seller Reference: ACC2
Paco Rabanne scarf
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
PACO RABANNE - Metallic mesh scarf with rhinestones. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Length: 173 cm ACC184
Paco Rabanne Silver Plated Belt
By Paco Rabanne
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Paco Rabanne (Attributed to) Silver plated belt. Not signed. Additional information: Dimensions: Length: 72 cm (28.35 in) to 86 cm (33.86 in) Wid...
Paco Rabanne x Regis Haute Couture black straw hat with vinyl visor, ss 1994
By Paco Rabanne
Located in London, GB
▪ Paco Rabona x Regis showpiece hat ▪ Haute Couture, Spring-Summer 1994 ▪ Constructed from black straw ▪ Integrated clear vinyl visor ▪ Sample ▪ Made in France All photographs in t...