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Woman of the world, discreet and passionate philanthropist, visionary businesswoman: Myriam Ullens de Schooten has a thousand lives. And each and every one of them feeds her never-ending and tireless creative energy. In 2009, just five years after founding the Mimi Foundation that supports people with cancer, she launched her own clothing brand. First named MUS after her name’s initials, the brand have since been renamed Maison Ullens. Its purpose? To imagine and to create the perfect wardrobe for a woman like her: traveling around the world but remaining elegant and stylish.
You never cheat with quality
The first store opens in Aspen, Colorado. The second one in Paris, Rue Marignan, at the corner of one of the most renowned place in Paris: Avenue Montaigne. Follow a one year pop-up shop in London, in the heart of the fancy, iconic and Francophile neighborhood of South Kensington. Her inspiration, Myriam finds it during her travels and fuels it with her passions, art and architecture. Each of the Maison Ullens’ shop designed by Rem Koolhass features a piece of art, by Anish Kapoor or Ado Chale. Because in her personal life as in her business life, Myriam never forgets the advice the famous chef Gaston Lenôtre once gave her: you never cheat with quality.
After finishing business school, Kim Laursen decided to take a different path. And passing the entrance exam of the Kolding School of Fashion and Design on a hunch was not randomly: when he was a teenager, he would already draw dresses and clothing pattern in his notebook. But when the jury asked him to produce a summer collection, he’d rather went with a winter collection. A daring move – that made him pass the exam with honors from the jury. And “daring” continue to define Kim today. Fascinated by Paris and Montmartre district, he came to the City of Lights in 1990. He quickly landed an internship with one of his idol: Christian Lacroix. The internship was supposed to last two months. It will last 14 years.
The impossible alchemy between simple and complex
An amazing career marked with collaboration with some of the most prestigious houses and brands like Kenzo, Cacharel, Azzaro, Paule Ka, Vanessa Seward and Elie Saab.In September 2014, he took the head of the creation of Maison Ullens, walking in the footsteps of Veronique Leroy. Always looking for elegant and easy-to-wear clothing, Kim’s goal is to combine his minimalistic codes to our different collections. Passionate about contemporary art and fascinated by geometry, he tirelessly tries to mix materials and patterns in the hope of achieving the impossible alchemy between simple and complex. Between sophistication and well-being.
The label Made in Italy is not merely an indication of the product’s origin. It’s a statement. A statement that guarantees the use of raw material of exceptional quality – both for the production of many renowned fashion brands and for the craft of the most skilled artisans.The expertise and “savoir-faire” of traditional workshops are a priceless asset of the Italian fashion. And its value in the luxury world goes beyond any measurements or assessments.
Whether it is our factories near Venice or Florence or our leather workshop outside Florence these different places are thriving toward the same goal, the endless quest that drives Maison Ullens : the pursuit of excellence.It is that combination of extraordinary techniques and high quality raw material that created what makes the essence of Maison Ullens. An essence which we are using to deliver the best quality to our sophisticated and discerning clientele with which we have built up a very unique connection. One that seeks out exclusivity and genuine “savoir faire”.
Rue François Dubois 2 La Hulpe 1310 Belgium
4 rue de Marignan Paris 75008 France
727 Madison Avenue New York NY 10065 USA
445 East Hopkins Aspen CO 81611 USA
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Marie-Laurence Stévigny is a belgian fashion designer graduated from Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture Parisienne in Paris in 1990 and from Institut Bischoffsheim in Bruxelles in 1989. She also studied shoe design at Afpic school in Paris and followed courses at Central Sint Martins college of art and design in London. She gain international experience from years of creative collaboration at Nina Ricci design studio in Paris where she created accessories collections from 1990 until 1998 and in London with British designer Bill Amberg as senior accessoires designer in charge of accessories collection for men women and children. In 2004 she formed her own international design studio MLSTUDIO based in Brussels, with offices in Brussels and in Paris. MLSTUDIO services a diverse and global set of clients within the luxury fashion and lifestyle business. The Studio is focused on the design principle of: ‘creating accessories which are inherently more than just accessories’. In 2010 Marie and MLSTUDIO win a gold fashion awards in Los Angeles for the IDA competition (International design awards ) with the 2010 Agnelle gloves collection. In January 2015 after more than ten years of creative collaborations MLStudio starts a new chapter in its business with the coordinated bags and gloves collection branded under Marie-Laurence Stévigny by Agnelle.
In September 2015 at Maisons de Mode, Marie-Laurence Stévigny win the accessories price from Who’s Next/Première Classe with Marie-Laurence Stévigny by Agnelle collection also received an “guest” space within Première Classe Paris fair in March 2016.
3 rue Emile Bouilliot Brussels 1050 Belgium
Michael Guérisse O’Leary
Michael Guérisse O’LearyMore Info
After graduating from the Victor Horta Institute of Architecture in Brussels, Michael Guérisse O’Leary studied leatherwork at Les Arts et Métiers de Bruxelles under a master craftsman from the Maison Delvaux.
In his designs one can see architectural influence subtly expressed through geometric and sculptured forms.
Each piece is carefully handcrafted with great measure of care in a constant pursuit of perfect proportions, simplicity and unconventional beauty.
The collections are inspired by master architects and designers such as Andrée Putman, Gae Aulenti, Gio Ponti, Richard Serra, Alvar Aalto.
As a tribute to his grandfather, he decided to name his brand after him. Albert Guérisse was a member of the belgian resistance during the Second World War. After Belgium was forced to surrender, he escaped to Great Britain to continue the fight under the cover name of ‘Pat O’Leary’. In London he met secret agent Sylvia Coopersmith, working for Military Intelligence. He eventually married her in 1946.
Pat O’Leary went on to organize one of the biggest escape routes of the Second World War.
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rue blanche has been appealing to women since 1987. Clothes from Marie-Chantal Regout – which are fun, luxurious yet minimalist – fit in easily with their wardrobe, becoming steadfast companions in their everyday life. This intimate familiarity defines the Belgian brand, whose shops and many retailers around the world reflect the sensitive, cosy world of its designer. A rue blanche creation is tactile and sensual.
It arouses buried emotions and feelings, alluding to past actions that we find poignant. Vivid colours, soft fabrics and timeless designs characterize the collection. Rather than a total look for special occasion, Marie-Chantal Regout likes to mix garments and accessories, revealing the individuality and essence of each woman. As a gateway to the imagination, rue blanche addresses fashion with verve and generosity.
History
Ms. Regout founded rue blanche in Brussels in 1987 together with Patrick van Heurck. The company name is a tribute to the name of the street where the firm was first located. The first collection included seven models, all made of jersey, which was unusual for that time.
The collection boasted many stripes and original prints. Over the years, this became the DNA of rue blanche. Today, rue blanche has shops in all major cities in Belgium and is distributed in more than 70 multi-brand stores all over the world.
Rijshout 3 Groot-Bijgaarden 1702 Belgium
Delvaux
Delvauxsince 1829More Info
The oldest fine leather goods house in the world
Delvaux is “a divinely singular label.” Such is the high praise one grande dame of fashion bestowed on the prestigious family-owned company established in 1829 by Charles Delvaux in Brussels. Internationally recognised, the House of Delvaux has earned its reputation by remaining true to its values and for its savoir-faire and uncompromising craftsmanship, as well as for the supreme quality of its creations.
Delvaux Créateur SA Boulevard Louis Schmidtlaan 7 Brussels 1040 Belgium
Delvaux Boulevard de Waterloo Boulevard de Waterloo, 27 Bruxelles 1000 Belgium
Delvaux Galerie de la Reine Galerie de la Reine, 31 Bruxelles 1000 Belgium
Delvaux Waterloo Chaussée de Bruxelles, 167 Waterloo 1410 Belgium
Delvaux Antwerp Komedieplaats, 17 Antwerpen 2000 Belgium
Delvaux Bruges Breidelstraat 2 Brugge 8000 Belgium
Delvaux Knokke Kustlaan, 148B 8300 Knokke Belgium
Klaar Devillé
Klaar DevilléMore Info
Klaar Devillé
The brand
Design and craftsmanship can perfectly stand together. If you work with natural materials you can combine them perfectly. Even more so: Belgian designers excel at it. The luxurious line of bags by Klaar Devillé fits perfectly within this spirit.
Bringing a new brand onto the market that stands for affordable high quality and authenticity is not an easy task. Unless you know perfectly well why.
The desire for purity, fierce elegance, quality, comfort, wearability, durability, and above all honesty, made Klaar take the step towards her own timeless and minimalistic high-end collection handmade bags.
The designer
Klaar Devillé comes from a large, artistic family of musicians, artists, and theatre-makers. Art, architecture, ballet, and theatre are what inspire her.
Klaar studied Slavic Languages and Eastern European Studies at the KULeuven and worked for several years as an analyst Eastern Europe for the Belgian State Security. When Klaar was part of a foreign security service recruitment progam in 2004, she decided to quit her job and return to her old love, fashion.
Klaar decided to study fashion design in Antwerp and maroquinerie (leatherworks) in Brussels and founded Atelier Devillé a few years later together with her husband.
Klaar is a mother of 3 and sister of award-winning theater author and director Stijn Devillé.
Store opens on:
Wed: 12.00 – 18.00h
Thu, Fri & Sat: 11.00 – 18.30h
1st & 3th Sunday of the month: 12.00 – 17.00h
Closed on Monday & Tuesday
Volkstraat 20 Antwerp 2000 Belgium
Leeuwerikstraat 8 Rotselaar 3110 Belgium
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About
1961: Birth
The story begins in a little village in south eastern Turkey. We are Sunday, it is October 29, 1961, Manufer Gulcu was born. Coming from a modest family, his father is farrier and his mother is housewife. In 1966, the family leaves the village to settle in the city, where his father opens his own workshop and reconverts into the manufacturing of horse saddles. During his early childhood, Manufer goes to school while working in his father’s workshop, where he gets familiar with a craftsmanship profession.
1972: Arrival in Istanbul
In 1972, Manufer Gulcu arrived with his family in Istanbul. The city is large and living conditions difficult, forcing Manufer to quit school at the age of 11 to find work. After accumulating odd jobs, Manufer found an apprentice position in a workshop located in the Beyazit district of Istanbul and discovered the profession of sewing there. Skillful with his hands, he quickly learns and develops technical skills. Very early on, working with leather and natural materials fascinates and ambitions him.
1978: Opening of his first workshop
In 1978, when he was only 17 years old, Manufer becomes an experienced couturier, the most respected position in the profession. His boss then offered him to take over the management of the workshop. He will accept the proposal and team up with his best friend to lead a team of eight workers. At a time considered to be the beginnings of the golden age of leather, Manufer saw its activity grow steadily.
1981: Arrival in Belgium
In 1981, in a tumultuous socio-economic context, Manufer decided to leave Istanbul for Europe, where everything had to be rebuilt. He will work for 3 years in different sewing workshops until the opening of his own workshop, which will later allow him to meet his wife. At that time, the importance of leather and shearling in the world of ready-to-wear was at its peak.
1987: The workshop burns down
On November 12, 1987, the building where the workshop is located burned down. Once again, everything has to be rebuilt. The accident prompted Manufer to renovate the Maison de Maître in Brussels located at 138 Avenue du Roi. He set up his workshops there, which he named MANUFERO, as a tribute to his origins. There he will develop his activities of creation, sales to professionals and individuals. He will also put his couturier know-how at the service of other designers, and will collaborate with prestigious houses such as Natan, Yves Saint-Laurent, Kris Van Assche and Jean-Paul Knot.
1992: 29thOctober is born
In his spirit of creation, Manufer Gulcu decides to put a name on his collections. In 1992, he created his brand, 29THOCTOBER, referring to a triple symbolic date for him and his family.
1999: Marie-Claire France
In 1999, the 29THOCTOBER brand obtained its first publication in a renowned magazine, Marie-Claire France.
2004: Paris international fair
In 2004, the 29THOCTOBER brand was present for the first time at the international ready-to-wear fair in Paris. This event will open the doors of French boutiques to the Maison and give it its European dimension.
2012: MIEL Catwalk
In 2012, the Maison took part in its very first fashion show, the MIEL Catwalk, and presented a preview of its winter 2013-2014 collection.
2018: The team is growing
In 2018, the 29THOCTOBER team is growing and becomes more than ever a family house. Benjamin and Lucie, Manufer’s children, join the company and give it a digital dimension by creating the online store.
2020: The range is growing
The brand takes precedence over innovation and diversification. More than ever willing to perpetuate its craftsmanship and put its know-how at the service of innovative and committed fashion, 29THOCTOBER is launching its first capsule collection in vegetable leather. On the occasion of its birthday, October 29, 2020, the brand unveils its bag line.
Avenue du Roi 138 Brussels 1190 Belgium
Rue Joseph Stevens 41 Brussels 1000 Belgium
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ABOUT US
Atelier Felis creates unique accessories out of recycled leather. By buying the products from Atelier Felis you support a small business owner who puts her time, energy and passion into creating an ecologically responsible product. You’re not only buying a nice and high-quality product that can be used for years to come, but you are also supporting a sustainable project.
We begin our design process by looking at materials that would otherwise end up in landfills. “Rather than starting with what could we make?” we start with “what can we make with the ‘waste’ that we sourced”.
Atelier Felis only uses 100% recycled leather. This leather can be reclaimed from discarded, damaged or out of fashion garments. But can also come from old couches or are remnants from the leather industry that would otherwise end up in the waste stream. All the materials we use also look great and are designed to last.
Because Atelier Felis only works with recycled leather, every piece is one-of-a-kind. There are only small amounts of each type of leather or color, making each piece a new experiment. Because of this our products are always limited and unique. This provides you with an alternative to mass-produced bags and accessories.
From start to finish, every item is Made in Belgium, in our studio in Antwerp. Atelier Felis resolutely opts for small, sustainable collections in a limited edition. We are committed to working locally and doing all the design and production in-house, with a focus on both function and style. We also take steps to keep the waste in our studio to a minimum. We make every scrap count!
MISSION
Founded with the aim of enhancing sustainable production, Atelier Felis shows that we can transform waste materials into timeless and functional items that don’t chase trends and stand the test of time. All our products are made with leather sourced from post-consumer waste stream and industrial surplus. Starting with used leather garments and discarded leather due to damages or fashion trends we make beautiful, timeless accessories that are environmentally responsible at the same time.
Each and every Atelier Felis item is fully created, start to finish, in our studio in Antwerp, Belgium. We are committed to staying local and all the design and manufacturing is done in house.
Vaartdijk 53, Wijnegem 2110 Belgium
La Maison Degand
La Maison DegandMore Info
La Maison Degand en quelques mots
Chaque homme est unique
La vocation de ce lieu incontournable de l élégance masculine est de valoriser votre personnalité, de s’adapter à votre style de vie.
Vos désirs, vos souhaits, rencontreront toutes les réponses.
Le service et le conseil n’ont pas de limites, la créativité et la passion s illustrent dans les moindres détails.
Au cSur de cet univers, deux maîtres mots :
Professionnalisme et Passion. Pour chacun d entre vous, Messieurs, selon vos aspirations :
Degand Tailleur, Degand Sport & Business et Degand Shoes.
415, Avenue Louise Brussels 1050 Belgium
River Woods
River WoodsMore Info
River Woods is an international and authentic lifestyle brand for the whole family, reflecting strong values as friendship, family values and the sheer joy of living!
River Woods’ origins lie in a bygone era, the North-Eastern American lifestyle served as a source of inspiration for the creation of the brand. Translated into a commercial and contemporary collection, River Woods since then evolved into a brand offering casual and city collections for the whole family. Men, women, boys, girls and even babies and newborns, the whole family can dress in River Woods.
The key factors of the growth and succes of the brand are a strict adherance to quality and a keen and exclusive distribution strategy. Through high-level multibrand stores and the well-known River Woods Company Stores, River Woods has put itself on the map.
The origins: An inspiring era
The wind blows through the lush crowns of the majestic oak trees of North Eastern America. This is the era of true friendship and strong values. This is the era of the origins of River Woods: authentic sportswear which embraces family, solidarity and the shear joy of living, and reflects the spirit of the true North-Eastern American lifestyle.
The beginning: Birth of River Woods
It was the 6th of December 1995 when four friends signed for the realisation of a mutual dream: their own fashion brand. By combining their years of experience and knowledge in the fashion sector, River Woods was born.
From Belgium to…: First menswear collection
On the 6th of January 1996 the trading began with the introduction of a Menswear Collection. Thanks to its strict adherence to quality and the perfect translation of the authentic American sportswear to the European market, it was an immediate hit. In fact, the brand began with an exponential growth in Belgium, The Netherlands and France.
New launches: Introduction of Women’s and Kids collections
The success of the Menswear Collection quickly lead to the introduction of a complete range of clothing for Women and Kids. River Woods became a brand for the whole family.
First Flagship store: Creation of River Woods Baby
Following the successful debut of the Women & Kids collections, in 2000 the River Woods Baby subdivision was created. This year the first River Woods Flagship store opened in Wijnegem Shopping Center, near Antwerp. River Woods continues its expansion through new partnerships throughout Europe …
Manufacturers & Distributors: The story of our success
As of 2001 a rapid expansion of the brand throughout Europe is established with a keen distribution policy. Focusing on high-end multilabel stores and the by now well known exclusive River Woods Company Stores has proven to be a recipe for succes.
New agreements: Footwear and River Woods stationary collection
In 2005 the license agreements for a River Woods Footwear collection and a River Woods school stationary collection are made.
Global Expansion: River Woods’ network
By now, River Woods has established a solid distribution network throughout Europe, and is ever strengthening its worldwide position by expanding its network outside Europe. It is now present in 22 Countries in the World : Austria, Belgium, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Luxembourg, Mauritius, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, The Netherlands, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and USA.
First RW Kids Store: New Opening
On the 23rd of January 2011, River Woods opens its first dedicated RW Kids store, at Wijnegem Shopping Center near Antwerp.
RW Casual Chic: New Opening
On the 29th of July 2011, a second River Woods Casual Chic store opens its doors in Knokke, Belgium. It offers exclusively the contemporary River Woods Ladies’ collection, and is an immediate hit.