Interview with Paula: A Seamstress and Guardian of Heritage

Our project takes its name from an extraordinary woman. Paula, a talented seamstress with a remarkable career, embodies the mastery of craftsmanship, a love for exquisite fabrics, and the transmission of an intangible heritage. As the inspiration behind this project, she shows us, through her journey, why these exceptional crafts deserve to be preserved and shared with future generations.

Today, we give her the floor. Through her story, she takes us into the fascinating world of haute couture, revealing the emotions, challenges, and passions that shape the life of an exceptional seamstress.

Listen to her story

A Vocation Woven with Challenges and Determination

From the very beginning, her calling was clear: sewing. However, her early steps were marked by unexpected detours. “I started at a school that trained me in fast, industrial sewing, using only machines.” This impersonal world did not align with her aspirations, but one sentence from a teacher changed her perspective: “A seamstress, no matter her field, must be meticulous, dedicated, patient, and determined.”

These words resonated with her as a challenge. She then devoted herself entirely to her studies, earning top grades and gaining admission to the prestigious Elisa Lemonnier fashion school in Paris. But once again, an unexpected obstacle arose. Because of her background in industrial sewing, the school deemed her profile unsuitable for the haute couture and design program.

Yet, instead of feeling discouraged, she accepted the challenge: to catch up with the other students' level in just one year. With perseverance and relentless hard work, she exceeded expectations. “This experience shaped my character and determination.” With her diploma in hand, she secured an internship at a luxury fashion house, where she trained under the watchful and nurturing eye of Madame Christiane, a première d’atelier who became a key figure in her learning journey.

Encounters That Shape an Extraordinary Career

Paula’s career began in a bridal couture house in Lille. “I worked with magnificent fabrics: taffeta, chiffon, organza, lace… a true dream world.” Once again, she was guided by a première d’atelier, also named Madame Christiane, who generously passed down her expertise.

But fate led her to leave everything behind when she got married and moved to Belgium. A new opportunity arose: a position in a Belgian luxury fashion house. For 26 years, she crafted unique pieces—cocktail dresses, evening gowns, and creations designed for princesses, queens, and distinguished personalities.

Today, she continues her work in another prestigious couture house, handling extraordinary fabrics with the same passion she had at the very beginning. “It elevates the final chapter of my career, and I take pride in every piece I create.”

When Fabric Becomes Art: A Passion for Textiles

For this seamstress, the essence of her craft lies in her deep connection with fabrics. “Each fabric is different. Sometimes, I close my eyes just to feel its texture better.” Her relationship with materials goes beyond mere technique—it is an art form, a silent dialogue between her hands and the textile.

She speaks passionately about the importance of precision: “Every stitch, whether done by hand or machine, is an expression of expertise. Every detail matters in making each piece a unique and exceptional creation.”

Emotion at Your Fingertips: Bringing Dreams to Life with Every Stitch

Working in the world of luxury couture is an emotional rollercoaster. “At first, there’s immense joy in working with exceptional fabrics. Then comes the fear—I want to be up to the task, to make no mistakes.”

These contrasting emotions ultimately transform into deep satisfaction when she sees the finished piece: “When I watch the garment come to life on a mannequin, or even better, when a client expresses her delight, it’s indescribable.”

Passing the Torch: Training the Next Generation

For Paula, the future of artisanal craftsmanship relies on passing down knowledge. “Handcrafting skills are not written down; they are transmitted through gestures. If we don’t practice them, they will be forgotten.”

She emphasizes the importance of sparking curiosity and passion in young people. “We are fortunate to have a project like PAULA to remind us of how valuable expertise is. It should, in fact, be introduced in all schools.” According to her, manufacturers and workshop leaders must take a greater role in training to ensure that this rich heritage is preserved.

Today, training new generations is crucial to addressing the shortage of skilled artisans. “Passing on this craft is more than important—without it, we risk losing a precious savoir-faire.”

To All the Dreamers: A Message of Inspiration

To all those dreaming of pursuing this craft, Paula shares a message filled with hope and passion: “There are those who dream and those who make others dream—but we, as seamstresses, are here to make dreams come true.”

This philosophy reflects both the beauty of her profession and her commitment to transmission. More than just a trade, couture in the luxury industry is a calling—an unwavering dedication to preserving artisanal excellence and bringing imagination to life.

Thank you Paula ✨