French model and designer Ines de la Fressange is the descendant of one of the oldest French families. She became a model at the age of 17 and was quickly recognized for her talent, becoming one of the most famous models in the world. She then signed an exclusive contract as a global ambassador with a luxury house. As a style icon, she is known for “effortless elegance” and her representation of Parisian art de vivre. In 2015, she re-launched her own brand that embodies modern “French chic”.
Ines de la Fressange tells us about her thoughts and feelings on the 10-year collaboration with Uniqlo which unveiled their final joint 2024 Spring/Summer collection. Check out the interview below:
Please tell us three design keywords and a design theme for this season.
Quiet luxury, Elegance, Casual chic
Natural materials are used in many of your products each season, and I think this season’s lineup includes items of soft and high quality. Why do you particular about natural materials?
Cotton is my favorite fabric. Nothing is better than feeling comfortable and it is ecological.
The color palette is also very calm and chic. What was the inspiration behind your color selection?
I always think Uniqlo is a global brand, worn by all kind of women of all ages and style. Therefore, I was looking for universal colours that would complement the personalities of everyone while also adding a touch of Parisian elegance characterised by sobriety and refinement.
What was the most important point for you in this collection?
Having designed over twenty collections for Uniqlo, I often meet women who tell me they’ve held onto items from years past. While I’m flattered by their loyalty, I also believe certain clothes can truly serve as solutions for these individuals, given how frequently they wear them. With my latest collection, I aim to create a condensed wardrobe that addresses the diverse needs of women for various situations. It’s essentially a curated selection that can be seen as practical advice, aligning with one of my mottos: Less is more.
What kind of communication did you have between you and Naoki Takizawa in the process of creating the collection? Please tell us about any memorable episodes.
Certainly, Naoki and I felt a deep sadness knowing it was the final collection. We reminisced about the numerous successful pieces we’ve created together, each evoking memories – some looks so elegant, some were successful against all odds, some items we were so proud of….
Throughout our collaboration, Naoki and I approached our work with a combination of seriousness, laughter, and, above all, trust. While I’m saddened by the end of this wonderful experience, I take solace in knowing that I’ve gained a true friend in Naoki. In that sense, this parting marks the best outcome of our collaboration.
The shoot for this season’s visual was in Malaga, a place of great nature. What were your impressions and memories of the shoot?
Since the beginning, I have been working with the same team, including the photographer, hairdresser, makeup artist, stylist, logistics, etc. Everyone was eager to give their best and delighted to be reunited under the wonderful sun of Spain, surrounded by olive trees. Positivity has always been our mindset, coupled with joy and professionalism. The Mediterranean basin has been rich in culture for centuries, so being in this atmosphere reassured us that change has always been constant, yet the world and civilization continue to evolve.
Please tell us about any beliefs that have remained unchanged since the first season.
Since our first collection, Naoki and I aimed to offer the best quality at affordable prices, steering away from replications to capture the essence of timeless elegance. The main idea was to demonstrate style and elegance are not exclusive to wealth. Drawing from our extensive experience in the fashion industry, we curated pieces to help women to get the right items they could use during the week and the same ones for weekends or holidays.
Our focus was on creating garments that I personally sought but couldn’t find elsewhere, prioritising enduring style over fleeting trends. We ensured that each item was effortlessly mixable, recognizing the practical constraints of limited space and the desire for simplicity, convenience, and enjoyment in dressing up.
While each season brought new additions, we want to capture the essence of Frenc style that resonate with people across various cultures. Our collections embodied class, elegance, and sobriety without being mundane, offering new range of colors, shapes, and fabrics each year to inspire wardrobe refreshment.
Looking back over the past 10 years, please tell us about your best memories, episodes, and any products that you have a special attachment to.
I remember vividly the surprise Naoki orchestrated for the press presentation of our first collection, completely recreating the living room of my own house – it was truly amazing!
One particular memory stands out: a black dress I wore for the advertising campaign of our first collection. We shot the picture next to the Ritz Paris and the feeling was truly haute couture. Also, there was a collection featuring many tweed jackets, shot in Montfort-l’Amory, an old French village. The setting transported us to the last century, resembling images from a magazine rather than typical advertising. Quality extends beyond the products themselves; it encompasses the manner in which they are presented.
How do you want customers to enjoy the Uniqlo / Ines De La Fressange Paris collection?
I want my customers to feel confident in my clothes and to understand themselves better. Their personality, their generosity and their smile are the most important, my work is just there to help them to be confident.
What is your message to your fans?
Fans? To my fans, or rather, my friends, I know many were expecting each season’s collection, often visiting stores or the website on the first day of release. While they may be disappointed now, I encourage them to continue exploring Uniqlo’s offerings and even venture into the men’s collection, as there are often great finds for women there too.
What is the most important thing in your life? And if you have a motto, what is it?
Obviously, my family and friends, I am so lucky to have them. My motto would be: “At the moment everything is fine, don’t worry for the future”
What is your next challenge?
I enjoyed working for Uniqlo, with its numerous stores worldwide, and most importantly, offering affordable prices. This was especially meaningful at a time when many luxury brands have exorbitant prices that only a few can afford. Currently, I am exploring new avenues to continue this pursuit that I hold dear.
