Paris, a homeland to many of the world’s most talented creatives, seems to have brought about another one. Marguerite Grandin, a small headwear designer is making a name for herself. Loaning her designs to several publications and clients, her headpieces are the highlight outfit they are styled with. We had the chance to talk with her about her inspirations, design processes, and plans for the future.
Do any media sources, such as anime, movies or TV series, inspire your headwear designs?
Marguerite Grandin: Yes, indeed, I am unconsciously inspired by many images from films, notably Star Wars and Mad Max, which influenced the creation of my first headgear.
When did your interest shift from clothing to headwear?
Marguerite Grandin: 2 years ago, I wanted to explore this sector that has always attracted me because it offers a multitude of ways to work the hat. The hat is a natural extension of the garment, the element that brings the final touch to an outfit and gives it presence. For me, it is also a simple and authentic way to express my creativity.
What is the process of creating a piece, from the initial sketch to a tangible product?
Marguerite Grandin: The creative process has no strict rules. I draw inspiration from nature, films, or even simple details of everyday life that have caught my attention, which I then interpret in my way. It can start with a drawing or directly with 3D modeling. This work on three-dimensional prototypes, which allows me to materialize my ideas, stimulates and enriches my imagination.
What is your favorite piece you have designed?
Marguerite Grandin: My favorite piece among my creations is my very first one. It has a symbolic value for me because it marks the beginning of many collaborations and the discovery of my creative identity.
Growing up and studying in France, how did your upbringing and environment influence your creations?
Marguerite Grandin: Education is an essential pillar of my creativity. I have been strongly encouraged and supported by my loved ones, which has motivated me and given me the desire to surpass myself. My environment, largely influenced by my travels, plays a key role in nourishing my inspiration.
Your designs also draw a lot of inspiration from nature, such as shells, flowers, etc. How important is sustainability to you, and what impact do your designs have on the environment?
Marguerite Grandin: Nature is a fundamental pillar of my inspiration. I draw on the raw materials of life and the simplicity of nature, which represents for me the essence of the natural. The impact that my creations have on the environment is reflected in a complementary approach: I offer unique pieces, not intended for sale, but rather to be lent or rented during magazine shoots or for artists. This is also reflected in the choice of shapes and materials that I use, always designed in an approach of unique pieces and not of accumulation, an approach that I refuse for the moment
How do you see the future of your art, especially regarding the marketing of your creations and the vision you have for your brand?
Marguerite Grandin: Initially, I would like to collaborate with stylists, and then eventually expand my activity by working with operas or theaters. My goal is to highlight my headwear collections, which are a reflection of my identity.
How important do you consider innovation to be, and how do you try to innovate in your creations, both technically and creatively?
Marguerite Grandin: Inspiration and innovation often arise spontaneously, but they require hard work. They thrive on constant curiosity. Over time, they become natural and instinctive. However, creating my first headgear was decisive in my innovation process. It allowed me to understand and master the art of headgear.
How long did it take you, technically, to create your first piece?
Marguerite Grandin: In one evening, I designed my first headgear. I had the idea clear in my head, and once I put it on paper, I was impatient to see the result.
Were you formally trained, or did you teach yourself?
Marguerite Grandin: I was first trained in the field of clothing and apparel, then I taught myself after discovering a hat head hidden in my attic.
Do you consciously try to integrate some of your personality into your creations, or do you think it happens naturally?
Marguerite Grandin: This happens instinctively, and I usually have a clear opinion about whether I like the headgear or not.
How do you define creativity?
Marguerite Grandin: For me, creativity is something personal and very mental. It is expressed through simple elements of my daily life, which I reinterpret in my own way, thus creating my own imaginary world, like a movie script, with different characters.
What advice would you give to other creators who are starting to develop their own works?
Marguerite Grandin: My main advice would be to cultivate passion because without it, the creative process becomes much more complex. It requires hard work, constant curiosity, and deep reflection on the meaning of creation: Why are we making these pieces, for what purpose? We must also question innovation, especially in an age saturated with information where so much has already been done.
