(Cover photo © Stanley Paul)
After a memorable first encounter during his An Olympic Night of Fashion show in Paris this summer, Jean Koute continues to captivate. 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 venture into fashion design? Was there a decisive moment or a significant influence in your journey?
Jean Koute: I’ve always been fascinated by creativity and the ability to express individuality. Fashion seemed like the perfect medium to combine art with functionality. A decisive moment came when people started approaching me about the unique outfits I had designed for myself and asking if they could be bought. That inspired me to share my vision with the world, not with bags only. Additionally, growing up in a family renowned for their expertise in jewelry and glassblowing nurtured my artistic sensibility and appreciation for craftsmanship.
P.-A. T.: Your recent fashion show in Paris, organized for a charitable cause to fight against domestic violence and sexual abuse, made a lasting impression. What motivated you to combine fashion with social advocacy in this collection?
J. K.: Fashion is a powerful platform to send 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 protecting children from abuse.
P.-A. T.: Your style blends menswear and womenswear with a distinct rock aesthetic. What drove you to adopt this rebellious visual language in your designs?
J. K.: I love pushing boundaries and challenging traditional ideas. The rock aesthetic feels authentic to me because it’s bold, fearless, and expressive. Combining menswear and womenswear gives the designs versatility and reflects the idea that fashion is for everyone. This approach aligns with my philosophy of celebrating individuality, a principle also embodied in my award-winning luxury bags and innovative apparel.
P.-A. T.: The studded garments in your Paris show were remarkable. What do these details symbolize for you, and how do they enrich the message of your collections?
J. K.: The studs and spikes represent protection and strength. They convey a clear message about boundaries—especially with the children’s clothing. The spikes on my children’s jackets carry a profound message. They are a symbol of protection—a reminder that boundaries must be respected. The spikes send a clear warning: Do not touch me inappropriately; if you do, you will get hurt. This design choice underscores my commitment to raising awareness about the protection of children from abuse and violence, highlighting an important cause within the context of fashion. Btw. each stud is screwed on by hand. This meticulous craftsmanship reflects my dedication to quality, a hallmark of all my creations.
P.-A. T.: From an aesthetic perspective, what do you admire most in design and fashion creation? Are there any visual elements or styles that particularly resonate with you?
J. K.: I admire designs that tell a story and show a love for detail. Strong shapes, bold contrasts, and interesting textures particularly appeal to me. I love designs that feel alive—whether through structure, movement, or unexpected details. My philosophy, "A New Dimension of Shape," is at the core of my creations. This concept is particularly evident in my luxury bags, which feature unique curves, edges, and handcrafted details that celebrate individuality.
P.-A. T.: What aspects of contemporary fashion do you find troubling? Are there current trends or practices that, in your view, lack depth or meaning?
J. K.: The fast-paced nature of the fashion industry worries me. Fast fashion often sacrifices quality and individuality for mass production. I believe fashion should celebrate craftsmanship and have deeper meaning, rather than following fleeting trends. This is why my brand emphasizes slow fashion, with each piece crafted by top German artisans.
P.-A. T.: How do societal changes, like issues of gender and inclusivity, influence your approach to fashion?
J. K.: Fashion should reflect the world we live in. Gender inclusivity is important to me, so I create pieces that don’t follow traditional rules. My designs are versatile and encourage everyone to express themselves freely. By combining elements of menswear and womenswear, I strive to break conventions and celebrate individuality. This approach aligns with my philosophy of celebrating individuality, a principle also embodied in my award-winning luxury bags and innovative apparel.
P.-A. T.: What do you enjoy about working with leather? What other materials do you like to work with?
J. K.: Leather has strength and character that make it exciting to work with. It’s durable, timeless, and allows for creative textures and surfaces. The high quality of the leather is particularly important for my handmade premium bags, crafted exclusively with certified German manufacturers. Each piece is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, often incorporating hand-engraved metal details to add a touch of elegance. Beyond leather, I enjoy working with denim and metals, including hand-engraved metal parts on my bags. These materials reflect the innovative and luxurious identity of my brand.
P.-A. T.: Paris is often considered the fashion capital of the world. How do you feel when you’re in France and Paris? Does this city influence your work?
J. K.: Paris has a unique energy that’s hard to describe—it’s inspiring and full of history, art, and beauty. When I walk its streets, visit museums, or admire its architecture, I feel deeply inspired. Paris reminds me why fashion is an art form. As someone whose designs have been showcased in fashion capitals like Paris, Milan, and New York, this city holds a special place in my heart and creative journey.
