The Fabric of Enlightenment: the elegant exhibition at the Musée Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Immerse yourself in theelegance of the 18th century with the Musée Jean-Jacques Rousseau's new exhibition, on view until October 26, 2025. Produced in partnership with La Dame d'Atours, a specialist in historical re-enactment, the exhibition highlights the period's sartorial transformations, reflecting a society in the throes of change, through a selection of costumes, accessories (wigs, hats, lingerie), engravings and paintings.

• To be read
• This week's top deals in Paris and Île-de-France, February 2–8, 2026
• Free museums and monuments in Paris and the Ile-de-France region: cultural tips

During this century, fashion oscillated between aristocratic luxury and the quest for simplicity, echoing the ideals of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. The museum in the heart of Montmorency, dedicated to the philosopher of the Enlightenment, who advocated a return to authenticity and criticized artifice, is the perfect place to evoke these clothes and accessories, whether for women, men or children. Accessible to adults and children alike, the exhibition is enriched with fun features to explore this era from every angle!

An immersion at the crossroads of social history, fashion and the arts, made possible by the loan of refined costumes from La Dame d'Atours, works from the Musée Cognacq-Jay and Montmorencé collections.

Fashion exhibitions: couture events to discover in Paris
Parisian museums and art galleries are offering a host of fashion-related exhibitions this year. From legendary figures to contemporary designers, it's sure to be a feast for the eyes! To make sure you don't miss any of these fashion events, follow the guide! [Read more]