she tells Penny Goldstone how she turned “French girl cool” into a fashion empire.

Take us back to your beginnings…

“At 17, I dropped out of school to complete my studies on my own. Around the same time, my sister moved to London, leaving behind three suitcases full of vintage treasures. I’ve always had a passion for finding one-of-a-kind pieces, so when I discovered eBay, I started selling them – just to make some extra pocket money. I never imagined this would be the start of my creative journey and career, but before long I had built a real community around my collection. The community worked so well that I decided to create my own space – Les Composantes – where I could curate my vintage collection and design my first pieces. After a few years, I knew I was ready to commit full-time to my creations and Sézane was born.”

Do you have a favourite piece from your current collection?

"I always love wearing the 'Enea' shirt, with its exquisite detailing. I find it can be easily paired with a leather skirt or jeans. My favourite accessory is our 'Justine' basket. I'll replace my leather bag with this perfect raffia basket for a better day."

"One of our biggest challenges, but also one of our greatest achievements, is to continue to evolve while staying true to the essence of Sézane; creating pieces that are both timeless and stylish."

What is the one thing you will never compromise on when it comes to business?

"I will never compromise on the quality and creativity of our collections, nor on the craftsmanship of our partner ateliers, which makes every Sézane piece unique. I believe that upholding these standards is the only way to earn the loyalty of our customers, who are the most important part of our story."

What has been your biggest challenge to date? What lessons have you learned from it?

"One of our biggest challenges, and also our greatest achievement, has been to stay true to the essence of Sézane as we grow; creating timeless and contemporary pieces meant to be lived, cherished and passed on. As the brand grows, we have to balance innovation with our core values: maintaining our consistent savoir faire while staying connected to our growing community."

How do you celebrate success?

"Around a long candlelit table with the people I love - fresh flowers, vintage plates, delicious Italian food, and lots of laughter."

What is the bravest thing you've ever done?

"Believe in yourself and take this adventure. It felt like a crazy idea at the time, but I'm so glad I followed my instincts."

"Believe in yourself and take this adventure [was the bravest thing I've ever done]. It felt like a crazy idea at the time, but I'm so glad I followed my instincts."

Any big mistakes?

"I don't view mistakes as failures - they're lessons that move us forward. Every setback has helped me grow, and I've learned to accept them as part of my journey."

What would you like to change for women?

“More access, more opportunities, and a world where success is no longer determined by background – but by talent, vision and determination.”

How do you achieve a healthy work-life balance?

“I’m lucky to have my family as my pillar of support. No matter how busy things get, they always come first and I treasure the time I spend with them.”

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

“‘Always give back.’ My parents instilled that in me from a young age and it’s always been there. It’s why I created my charity project Demain, because even the smallest of actions can make a difference.”

What’s your proudest moment so far?

“Opening our first store in Paris, L’Appartement. I stumbled upon this space and it felt like destiny. It’s been amazing to see it come to life the way I envisioned it. It’s more than just a store, it’s Sézane’s home; a place where people can come to try on clothes, have a coffee, and… it’s the beginning of a new chapter.”

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