PREMIERE CLASSE: promising future for 'Space'

08 Feb '11

3 min read

Gloves are synonymous for a refined look and unique French know-how, which PREMIERE CLASSE has highlighted for two seasons along with the FRENCH GLOVE FEDERATION and CTC.

In September 2010, 6 French glove makers had been given carte blanche to create a model inspired by the season's theme, Space. In January 2011, these six prestigious Maisons exhibited the new styling challenge executed by 18 teams featuring PREMIERE CLASSE jewel, shoe, eyewear, hat, belt and bag designers.

NEWS HORIZONS…
This new styling challenge, imagined as a shared experience, proved successful and sealed the alliance of expertise and originality, tradition and modernity. The 18 designers outdid one another in terms of imagination and boldness to create a sketch made to measure in the glove-making ateliers. Quite a feat that speaks for an exceptional legacy and also opens new horizons to Made in France gloves. To offer this project added visibility and promote the French savoir-faire abroad, this exhibition will travel with PREMIERE CLASSE. First stop scheduled in Montreal during the Fashion Week, February 7th to 10th 2011.

Some studies are also underway to sell some of the exhibited models in the near future.

WHAT THEY THOUGHT ABOUT IT…
“The whole operation exceeded our expectations. The parties involved really played by the rules. The resulting creations are up to the French gloves' reputation, and the industry's prestigious image worldwide..” Jean Strazzeri, president of the FRENCH GLOVE FEDERATION. Maison Lesdiguières-Barnier.

“This styling challenge proves glove-makers are modern and forward thinking. Gloves are not only traditional or exceptional. They can also be part of your everyday life, fun and sensual when creativity is combined with amazing now-how.” Bénédicte Vermerie, head of CTC, creation support.

“I really loved executing very precise instructions. I'd really love to continue…” Sophie Grégoire, head of Agnelle.

“It was a very fulfilling experience, an opportunity to build a real relationship with new partners.”. Frédéric Morand, head of Georges Morand.

“It was a wonderful experience for me, because on gloves just like on jewels, you can write both universal and aesthetic messages (the words Left and Right are written in Braille on each glove). I really want to sell this model.” Claire Naa, Braï designer.

“I'd wanted to design gloves for a long time. That's why I created a model for men (the only one of the exhibition), both elegant and sports' inspired. The glove makers' technical know-how is precious. I think I'll carry on with this experience.” Thierry Lasry, eyewear designer.

“The gloves I designed were imagined just as shoes. The designer from Ganterie Saint Junien perfectly understood my drawing. The result is a very graphic creation, totally in line with my shoe collections.” Sandie Jancovek, Jancovek designer.

French glove making, an ever so dynamic industry…
France is the cradle of an amazing glove making industry. Saint-Junien, Millau, Grenoble have remained historical sites where traditional and high quality know-how has been safeguarded.

500,000 pairs are manufactured each year for a total turnover of 30 million euros.

PREMIERE CLASSE

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