Welcome to the world of designer Camille Templier, who talks to you about the history of her brand , her influences and Paris .
Why did you embark on such an adventure?
To be free ! I wanted to make a living from my ideas and I always knew that I would one day create my own business. I was passionate about sewing, so I chose to make this passion my job! With 10 years of hindsight, I realize that all this was far from obvious, and yet, it was obvious to me.
How did you get into creation?
After business school, I worked for 5 years in luxury marketing. At the same time, I loved creating and sewing my clothes that I wore to the office during the week. As they met with some success, the idea came naturally to me: to have my creations made by seamstresses. I first met Gisèle, a young retiree from the Lanvin workshops, then others joined her. I learned the profession of model maker and stylist with them. The first collection in March 2012 sold out in a few weeks. The adventure then really began!
Who makes the collections today?
Our seamstresses, the same ones from the beginning. To support them and meet demand, I also called on family workshops, still in France. We have very artisanal manufacturing and a real relationship of trust with each of them. Our knits are made in a knitting factory in Normandy. Many of our suppliers have the Living Heritage Company label.
Where do the fabrics come from?
I still hunt for materials from the stocks of large houses. I have always fully embraced the idea of making limited editions and selling my customers clothes that they will not find on everyone. For larger series, we are increasingly working with French and Spanish suppliers. Our materials are mainly natural (cotton, linen, viscose, wool, etc.).
Why did you choose the Internet?
Manufacturing in Paris, with materials of this quality, is very expensive. But without an intermediary and without a physical store, we control our costs as best as possible and this allows us to offer our creations at reasonable prices. We don't have sales.
Your difference?
We are a true sewing e-house! Our customers often write to us to tell us of their happiness at having received a piece of such quality. A garment passed through the hands of a seamstress does not have the same feel as a garment that leaves a factory. It takes on average 2h30 per room! It is this special care that makes us different.
The style of the house?
Very feminine, timeless but always with the added “couture” detail. That’s what I call “classic chic with a twist”! The priority is to highlight the silhouette and give confidence to the woman wearing the garment.
How is the idea for a piece of clothing born?
I create what I want to wear. The spirit of the collections is closely linked to my personal style. I start each collection by asking myself what I would like to have in my wardrobe next season. And to give birth to an idea, I walk in the Luxembourg Gardens or on the banks of the Seine... Parisian women are inspiring and I always have my drawing book with me just in case!
Why did Atelier de Camille become Atelier Camille?
It’s a natural evolution of my small business. During the first 5 years, I worked alone. Today I have a team behind me and even if we remain a small, very artisanal company, the workshop where I received my clients has become a brand. This name suits him better.
Your motto?
“Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life,” said Confucius.
Your favorite color?
I have 2: black and white, sometimes together, often separately. It's chic and timeless, everything I love.
Paris and you ?
This is forever ! I was born in Paris and grew up there. Yet I am still amazed, a true tourist. On weekends, I tend to be in the countryside with my family. And I only cycle during the day, which makes everything easier!
Birth of a model
It all starts with a desire, an idea, a drawing... After research, Camille selects the fabrics and makes her pattern by hand. One of the seamstresses then puts together the first prototype. This is tried on, then retouched, the pattern is reworked until the garment fits perfectly. Once the pattern is validated, it is “graded”, that is to say adapted to all sizes. The mass production of the model is entrusted to the seamstress or workshop best able to make it. The choice is made based on quantities, material and finishes because everyone has their own expertise. Finally, all finished pieces are checked, labeled and folded in our offices in Paris in the 6th arrondissement. Each order is then shipped by us.
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