The creatures who inhabit the fashion world are often prickly and polarizing but Lanvin designer Alber Elbaz, who tonight celebrated 10 years at the label with the presentation of his fall 2012 collection and a party immediately following, is pretty much beloved by all. And for good reason. The smiley, bespectacled, bow-tied designer is self-deprecating and doesn’t take himself too seriously. (He once said, when asked about the pressure designers face today “I don’t take drugs because if I did I’d love them – I’d be a junkie. And because I’m Jewish, I’d probably be a dealer too.” There was also that time he danced to Pitbull.) He’s enormously talented but stays humble. Oh and he’s generous. Very generous. Most people receive presents when they celebrate a milestone anniversary. Elbaz gives them out.

Here is how the designer chose to ring in 10 years at Lanvin last night: