As Mother's Day approaches, I couldn't resist asking the woman who has always inspired me to immortalize a few shots of herself in her favorite SESSEI pieces. My idea of the inspiring woman takes its essence from my mother, who, from an early age, was a strong figure in the way my personality and taste were refined.
I observed this woman whose natural elegance rhymes with discretion. She taught me an eye for detail and a love of a job well done. And more importantly, that refinement stems from a clever blend of generosity and subtlety.
Between two classes at law school, I slipped away to follow her to the most beautiful Parisian showrooms. I observed with a keen eye her way of composing collections, and marveled at the kindness that punctuated each of her choices, with the recurring idea of wanting to magnify women.
To those who are lucky enough to still have their mothers, let's celebrate their preciousness every day! I am delighted on this occasion to present to you a piece of mine and to illustrate once again my joy at seeing that SESSEI dresses women of all ages, body shapes and styles; with one thing in common, however: the love of beauty.
How did the idea to open your first HESME multi-brand store in 2006 come about? How did you select the brands you would represent there?
I evolved in this field very early on: my parents already worked in this sector, then my husband when I met him. We worked together for years afterward. More than a choice, it seemed obvious.
In the 2000s, there were no longer any multi-brand boutiques in Toulouse that I recognized myself in. The goal was then to offer the women of Toulouse a universe that reflected me. I selected designers who fit into the style I love: elegant and timeless, which I mixed with more original designers to create strong and unique identities. Isabel Marant and Joseph were flagship brands of the boutique in the first years from 2006 to 2015 and for which I still have a particular affection.
Who are your style icons?
From a very young age, Jackie Kennedy's silhouettes caught my eye. Unquestionably one of the most chic women of the century. Her carriage, a simplicity yet so elegant, both fascinated and inspired me. Then there were women like Tilda Swinton, or Inès de la Fressange, who remain icons for me.
What philosophy have you tried to communicate to your daughters in their way of consuming?
I hope I have conveyed to them the pleasure and joy of acquiring very special pieces that they have taken the time to desire. Not to buy on impulse, but to take the time to build a wardrobe of key pieces that they will never tire of.
The prettiest fashion item you've ever bought?
I remember this Yves Saint Laurent blazer from the 90s like it was yesterday. It was a craze at the time and I cherished it like a jewel. Thirty years later, I still have it, in perfect condition. There were also spectacular pieces from Mugler and Lempika, which you recently acquired!
You always wear rather imposing jewelry that adds a special sparkle to your silhouette. What are your favorite brands?
Accessories are one of my guilty pleasures. They allow me to add a little whimsy to my more basic looks. Céline and Yves Saint Laurent make large, imposing pieces of jewelry that always have a lot of character.
I loved the Vionnet accessory lines, which unfortunately no longer exist.
Pascale Monvoisin is a designer I represent in my boutiques and for whom we have a special affection in the family. We all wear her jewelry every day. I also like to wear little studs, like sparkles of light, in my ears, which I buy from Stone.
You live in Tel Aviv part of the year. Can you give us your three favorite places?
Tel Aviv is a city of possibilities! I still love venturing into unfamiliar corners to discover places that are always full of charm. But if I had to choose just three places:
Kalamata : Kikar Kedunim 10 - Old Jaffa, Tel Aviv
A Greek restaurant in Old Jaffa. Try to get a table with a sea view to admire the spectacular sunset.
A must-see stroll through the Neve Tsedek neighborhood where you will find fashion and craft boutiques, art galleries, and charming little restaurants.
Cassis Restaurant: Kidron St, 44. Tel Aviv Yafo
A riverside restaurant where we love to have lunch. Chef Ayelet Perry has a passion for gastronomy and fresh ingredients that inspire many unique and delicious creations.
The best advice you can give to your children?
To believe in themselves and their potential. To not be afraid to assert their choices and always stay true to themselves. Not being like anyone else can increase your self-confidence! Your wealth is in your differences.
We usually end these interviews by asking for a selection of your three favorite SESSEI pieces. Over to you!
I wear SESSEI every day for the precision of its cuts and the quality of the materials used. Limiting myself to three pieces is therefore difficult if I had to keep only three, it would be
A Maria shirt: I like this bib, which is constructed with a certain rigidity. It gives structure to the bust and a very elegant note even to a casual silhouette. It's therefore a very interesting piece.
I recently adopted the Spencer jeans. They lengthen the silhouette. Their high waist holds perfectly. I hardly ever take them off!
A striped shirt. I brought the navy Kaia this time, but I always have one in my suitcase. It's a very hybrid piece that adds style to a very simple silhouette.
