Credits: Stanley Paul.
After a memorable first encounter at his An Olympic Night of Fashion show in Paris this summer, Jean Koute continues to impress. Pierre-Antoine Tsady met with this visionary designer to explore how he blends craftsmanship, rock aesthetics, and social commitment to redefine contemporary fashion.
Interview
Pierre-Antoine Tsady: What led you to start creating fashion? Was there a decisive moment or a major influence in your journey?
Jean Koute: I have always been fascinated by creativity and the ability to express individuality. Fashion seemed the perfect way to combine art with functionality. A turning point was when people started asking where to buy the unique outfits I made for myself. That inspired me to share my vision with the world, not just through bags. Also, growing up in a family renowned for its expertise in jewelry and glassblowing nurtured my artistic sensibility and my love for craftsmanship.
P.-A. T.: Your recent Paris show, organized as a nonprofit to fight sexual violence, made an impression. What motivated you to combine fashion and social engagement in this collection?
J. K.: Fashion is a powerful platform for conveying messages. Protecting children and raising awareness about issues like domestic violence and sexual abuse are causes very close to my heart. I believe fashion can go beyond beauty — it can inspire change and provoke thought. This commitment is reflected in my children’s clothing line, whose proceeds support Patrice’s Kids Inc., an organization that protects children from abuse.
P.-A. T.: Your style mixes menswear and womenswear with a decidedly rock aesthetic. What pushed you to adopt this visual language of rebellion in your creations?
J. K.: I like pushing boundaries and challenging traditional ideas. The rock aesthetic feels authentic to me because it’s bold, fearless, and expressive. By combining elements of men’s and women’s clothing, I give my creations versatility that reflects the idea that fashion is for everyone. This approach aligns with my philosophy of celebrating individuality, a principle also seen in my award-winning luxury bags and innovative designs.
P.-A. T.: The studded garments at the Paris show were striking. What do those details symbolize for you, and how do they enhance the message of your collections?
J. K.: Studs and spikes represent protection and strength. They send a clear message about boundaries — especially with children’s clothing. The spikes on the jackets in my children’s collections carry a deep message. They symbolize protection, a reminder that boundaries must be respected. The spikes clearly warn: "Do not touch me inappropriately; if you do, you will be hurt." This design choice reflects my commitment to raising awareness about protecting children from abuse and violence. Each stud is hand-fixed, a detail that shows my dedication to quality, a hallmark of all my creations.
P.-A. T.: Aesthetically, what do you admire most in design and creation? Are there visual elements or styles that particularly speak to you?
J. K.: I admire creations that tell a story and show a love of detail. Strong shapes, bold contrasts, and interesting textures appeal to me especially. I like designs that seem alive, whether through structure, movement, or unexpected details. My philosophy, "A New Dimension of Shapes," is at the heart of my creations. This concept is particularly evident in my luxury bags, which feature unique curves, refined angles, and handmade details to celebrate individuality.
P.-A. T.: What aspects of contemporary fashion do you lament? Are there current trends or practices you feel lack depth or meaning?
J. K.: The speed of the fashion industry worries me. Fast fashion often sacrifices quality and individuality in favor of mass production. I believe fashion should celebrate craftsmanship and have deeper meaning, rather than follow fleeting trends. That’s why my brand emphasizes slow fashion, with each piece made by top certified German artisans.
P.-A. T.: How do societal developments, like gender issues and inclusivity, influence your approach to fashion?
J. K.: Fashion should reflect the world we live in. Gender inclusivity is important to me, which is why I create pieces that don’t follow traditional rules. My designs are versatile and encourage everyone to express themselves freely. By combining elements of men’s and women’s clothing, I strive to break conventions and celebrate individuality.
P.-A. T.: What do you appreciate about working with leather? What other materials do you like to work with?
J. K.: Leather has a strength and character that makes it exciting to work with. It is durable, timeless, and allows play with textures and creative surfaces. The quality of the leather is particularly important for my handmade bags, crafted exclusively with certified German artisans. Each piece reflects meticulous craftsmanship, often with metal details engraved by hand to add a touch of elegance. Beyond leather, I enjoy working with denim and metals, materials that reflect my brand’s innovative and luxurious identity.
P.-A. T.: Paris is often considered the fashion capital. How do you feel when you are in France and in Paris? Does the city influence your work?
J. K.: Paris has a unique energy, hard to describe — it’s a source of inspiration full of history, art, and beauty. When I walk its streets, visit its museums, or admire its architecture, I feel deeply inspired. Paris reminds me why fashion is an art form. As a designer whose designs have been shown in fashion capitals like Paris, Milan, and New York, this city holds a special place in my heart and creative journey.
