Emmanuelle Barre was educated at the School of the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, and then cut her teeth within famous French houses, Alexis Mabille and Vanessa Bruno, where she specialized in ready-to-wear and embroidery, developing a taste for luxury and fine craftsmanship. But, for Emmanuelle, accessories seemed to have always been an unavoidable career path from an early age. So, she decided to take the leap of faith and launch her own brand, Ephyre, to offer a line of elegant and functional bags crafted exclusively in France. Read on as Emmanuelle discusses the philosophy and ethos behind her brand, the challenges of establishing a handbag label in Paris, and reveals her future plans.
Emmanuelle Barre
When did you realize it was time you started your own brand?
After several years of working in the industry for French brands, I felt the need to express myself by creating products I wanted, and share my desire to offer products made exclusively in the best European workshops.
What attracts you to leatherwork?
Leather is a beautiful natural material, irregular and smooth with natural marks. Each leather product is unique. That is what I really like about leatherwork.
What is it about handbags that got you excited in the first place?
As a major handbag enthusiast, I was naturally inclined to this product. I was looking for leather accessories, both functional and beautifully made, that I could use every day. Wandering around shops, I realized that I could bring something new to the market. Secondly, leather goods are what I have always liked. In fact, the first piece I ever made was a large fabric shopping bag at the age of 12 – I guess by then I already knew what I wanted to do.
What made you sensitive to sourcing and producing locally?
Looking back in history, French, Portuguese and Italian artisans are recognized for the excellence of their leather-goods craftsmen, and their quality leather. So, for me, it was a natural choice to source and produce locally, and favor the local economy. By doing so, we have a better control over production, and we can reinforce the identity and quality of our products. Secondly, the European tanneries and workshops are subject to very strict environmental and labor regulations. For us, it is very important that the products we offer are ethically responsible.
The silhouettes and colors of your pieces show that you don’t really follow trends. In your opinion, what makes a handbag classic?
A handbag should carry a story, and last for a lifetime. When I design a handbag, I make sure that the raw materials that I use, the color that I choose, and the line I design will last overtime, making the piece forever elegant and chic.
I feel like you label reflects the allure of Parisian style totally. How has living in Paris influenced your work?
It is hard to evaluate how Paris influences my work. I have grown up and lived all my life here, and I guess it has become part of my DNA. Fashion and art-de-vivre are very important in Paris, and I get my inspiration from so many diverse people and circumstances. It could be when I am visiting a museum, going to an art gallery, or simply having a drink with friends.
What would you like your company to stand out for?
We wish to offer timeless high-quality products manufactured exclusively in Europe, that highlight the French know-how, at fair prices. We want to create bags that daughters and mothers can share.
What is the secret to establishing a successful handbag company?
To create a successful brand of leather goods, it is important to be very selective with the suppliers and manufacturers. You can’t cheat on quality, and you have to make sure that all people working with you share the same expectations. Secondly, you need a strong identity; we want Ephyre to be a leader in design and ethical business. Finally, you need to build a strong communication and advertising campaigns to make sure that your message reaches effectively your audience.
How difficult is it launching a new fashion label in France?
It’s a very competitive industry. It takes time, motivation, conviction and… some luck. But, most importantly, you have to stick to your identity and values. No shortcut brings success.
What are your future plans? Do you intend to branch out in other accessories?
We have many plans for Ephyre, including the launch of a line of women’s shoes. But it is still at the project stage at the moment. We want to build a solid base before expanding. Building a strong relationship with our customers and our suppliers is our first priority today.
www.ephyre.fr
Images © Ephyre
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