American actress, filmmaker, and humanitarian Angelina Jolie is launching ATELIER JOLIE – “a place for creative people to collaborate with a skilled and diverse family of expert tailors, pattern makers and artisans“. The idea behind Jolie’s new fashion venture is to democratize the fashion industry, and to to cultivate self-expression. The customers will have access to a collective of emerging designers and master artisans. The brand will only use leftover, quality vintage material and deadstock, and the customers will also be able to repair or upcycle their own favorite pieces. Atelier Jolie will include apprenticeships for refugees and other talented, underappreciated groups. Academy award winner also said that she was inspired by the many tailors and makers she worked with over the years.
“Everyone can create. Why then do we covet designer labels? Why simply buy the design of another person, when you can create yourself? We can all collect, appreciate, and be influenced by the designs of others. But the highest form of self-expression – and I believe the most fun – is to create for ourselves. Fashion is an art I’ve had the opportunity to play with over the years. I’ve designed clothes and learned about shapes with many of the best tailors. Designers often sketch or approve designs, but it is the tailors who make the difference and who I truly love creating with. And yet, these makers rarely receive the credit and respect they deserve. I am building a place for creative people to collaborate with a skilled and diverse family of expert tailors, pattern makers and artisans from around the world. A place to have fun. To create your own designs with freedom. To discover yourself.” – Angelina Jolie
