Sofia Coppola Curates Spectacular Summer Ball at Les Arts Décoratifs

PARIS — On July 6, 2025, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris hosted the inaugural Bal d’Été, an extravagant summer ball art-directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sofia Coppola. The event drew a plethora of celebrities, including Penelope Cruz, Keira Knightley, Kirsten Dunst, and Diane Kruger, all captivated by the stunning decor and vibrant floral arrangements that characterized the evening.

Guests were greeted with an ambiance reminiscent of a pre-digital era, where a sticker on their smartphone cameras ensured that the splendor of the event remained an experience rather than a series of snapshots. The central nave was adorned with lavish decorations, including crystal chandeliers, round tables with flickering votive candles, and elaborate arrangements of flowers and fruit. Notably, an impressive ice sculpture encased chrysanthemums and served as a unique serving vessel for dessert, which included strawberry ice cream and tarts.

Coppola, who wore a striking Chanel haute couture outfit, meticulously designed every aspect of the event, from the fiery rose dinner napkins to the energetic after-party performance by the band Phoenix, led by her husband Thomas Mars. “I just stepped in. It looks gorgeous,” Kirsten Dunst, who has starred in Coppola’s films such as 'Marie Antoinette' and 'The Virgin Suicides,' remarked as she navigated the elegantly arranged dinner tables in a shimmering silver gown.

Makeup artist Pat McGrath echoed Dunst’s sentiments, praising the floral arrangements by renowned Belgian florist Thierry Boutemy. “There’s a lot of lipstick inspiration, and also perfume inspiration here,” she noted, highlighting the event's aesthetic appeal.

Among the attendees were fashion luminaries like Pieter Mulier, Zac Posen, Julie de Libran, and Gabriela Hearst, who paused for portraits amid the exquisite decor. Hearst, wearing a strapless blue gown of her own design, expressed her admiration for Les Arts Décoratifs, sharing her thoughts on a recent exhibition. “The recent Christofle exhibit that they did was mind-blowing,” she commented, emphasizing the museum's status as a treasure trove of design history.

Opera singer Pretty Yende, who performed during the evening, described the decor as “colorful” and “beautiful,” adding that the warmth of the setting was truly enchanting. Keira Knightley, also in attendance for the Chanel haute couture show, humorously remarked on the museum's extensive collection, suggesting she might explore the chairs next time.

Diane Kruger, currently shooting a film in Spain, found the evening a welcome distraction from her rigorous schedule. “This is quite a departure,” she said, reflecting on the opulence of the event.

Paloma Picasso reminisced about her previous experience at the museum, recalling her exploration of the archives for a theater production. “They didn’t have the cushions, but they had the drawings of the cushions,” she shared.

The Bal d’Été not only celebrated artistic beauty but also aimed to raise funds for future exhibitions, including the anticipated “1925-2025: One Hundred Years of Art Deco,” set to open on October 22, 2025. This event marks a significant moment in the Paris fashion calendar, coinciding with Paris Couture Week, and underscores the ongoing commitment to cultural enrichment through artistic events and exhibitions.