Jean-Claude Jitrois Shares Brand’s Journey
Intro
Embark on a captivating exploration into the realm of Jitrois as we venture into the visionary mind of its founder, Jean-Claude Jitrois. In this series of concise interviews, we delve into the origins that ignited his creative journey and delve into the compelling motivation that drives his unyielding commitment to empowering self-expression, defying conventions, and crafting enduring fashion that resonates with diverse individuals. Join us as we immerse ourselves in the mesmerizing world of Jitrois and uncover the brand's resolute dedication to fostering individuality, pushing boundaries, and creating timeless style that strikes a chord with people from all walks of life.
interview by Ezgi Atay
To be creative, you have to keep your eyes wide open, allowing active and comprehensive observation.
Q1.
What was the driving force behind Jitrois in the first place?
The driving force behind the brand was my vision to merge the worlds of fashion and leather craftsmanship, incorporating psychology and psychomotricity as catalysts that bridge the interaction between the psyche and body. Witnessing the profound influence that clothing has on overall well-being and emotions, such as confidence, I aimed to create unique and innovative designs that showcased the versatility and sensuality of leather as a material. To achieve this, I introduced a range of groundbreaking processes, including laser cutting and stretch leather, which not only allowed for greater flexibility but also enhanced comfort in my designs.
Image: from Jitrois' Latest Collection
Q2.
Where do you look for creative inspiration?
I’m very curious and as I learned during my studies, I observe a lot!
Creating an interesting design makes sense only in the time you do it. To be creative, you have to keep your eyes wide open, allowing active and comprehensive observation. I always loved this double-meaning quote from Brett Easton Ellis “The better you look, the more you see”. I’m inspired by everything around me: paintings, sculpture, design, movies, literature, nature, and above all: the street.
But most importantly, art has always informed my work, from my humble beginnings as a designer in the South of France, when my friend Ben Cesar introduced me to the artist's scene in Nice and at the Colombe d’Or in Saint Paul de Vence. The bright colors of Yves Klein and Calder were what first inspired me to inject bright colors into my leathers back in the 1980s. I am a great admirer of Pierre Soulages, whose work draws parallels with leather work: his work in black and in “outre-noir”, beyond black as he himself defined. He plays upon the texture of materials, in relief and with light, and the very graphic result is extremely interesting.
Francis Bacon’s interpretations of the body-psyche relationship have always inspired me, as well as the sculptural work of Louise Bourgeois. Her use of linear forms and the omnipresence of black informed the development of the Minoray line (bands of stretch leather molded to the shape of the body on silk organza), which has since become a classic of Jitrois.
Image: Francis Bacon's Art
Q3.
How would you describe the brand’s style?
Jitrois’ style is to create garments that exuded both elegance and a rebellious spirit. Featuring intricate detailing, precise tailoring, and a distinct rock 'n' roll edge.
Jitrois sought to empower individuals through his clothing, using leather as a symbol of strength, sensuality, and self-expression. Jitrois' commitment to individuality and self-expression is evident in his designs. His clothing is not meant to conform to societal norms or expectations but rather to empower the wearer to embrace their own identity and unique sense of style.
By combining elegance and rebellion, Jitrois enables individuals to express their inner confidence and showcase their true selves through fashion.
Q4.
From Kylie Jenner to Lady Gaga, Jitrois is a celebrity's favorite. How do you describe the points that are most instrumental to your success?
I love working with celebrities because they contribute to the design process. The design process involving celebrities is quite intimate, as the garments they wear on stage not only make them look extraordinary but also serve as a form of protection, akin to wearing beautiful armor.
I really enjoy working with celebrities as they actively contribute to the design process. Creating bespoke stage outfits is especially exciting, as it allows me to develop unique pieces that perfectly complement their art and performances. Collaborating with meaningful artists such as FKA Twigs (during her Mobo Awards win), Beyoncé, Rita Ora, Kylie Jenner, and Lady Gaga has been a true pleasure. These individuals not only own immense talent but also embody values of self-expression and freedom, which I hold dear. I am attuned to people, their desires, and their fantasies. I absorb their essence and strive to fulfill their unexpressed desires through my designs.
Images: Jean-Claude Jitrois dressing Lady Gaga
Q5.
While creating a piece or a collection, how does the process work?
I enjoy working in a traditional manner, drawing, and collaborating with a talented team that surrounds me. Everything is done by hand, which involves back-and-forth movements across the studio. It all starts with my vision, which I share with my creative team. From the initial drawings to the final development of the pieces, including the creative content that appears on our social media and website, the entire process is a collaborative construct.
The development work is collective and that is very important to me I communicate my vision to my premiere d’atelier, who has the power to bring an idea to life. She develops the shapes, and together we create the prototype in the studio. Subsequently, it is paramount that members of my team try on the designs to benefit from direct feedback, I want to know how it feels to wear them. The feeling of wearing is as important as the way it looks. It's actually fairly similar to a psychodrama. It is a two-way flow of exchange of non-verbal language.
Everything is done by hand, which involves back-and-forth movements across the studio.
Q6.
What are the 3 most important things that people should know about Jitrois?
Jitrois is challenging the vision of strong women and gender empowerment. Beyond the deconstruction of gender, feelings, age, and the immediacy of see-now-buy-now. Jitrois challenges temporality and construction experience of time and place. Social harmony comes from individual harmony. I want to work on both self-assertion and harmony. Jean-Claude Jitrois draws inspiration from a wide range of influences, including social, cultural, and political factors. He upholds traditional methods of production, placing a strong emphasis on craftsmanship. His communication strategy revolves around direct feedback and maintaining close relationships with clients and the media.
Shop Selection
 NJ Corset Top in Stretch Leather |  KRISTEN Sleeveless Jumpsuit in Stretch Leather |  SUGAR Embroidered Shirt Dress in Stretch Leather |
|---|---|---|
 HEIFER Embroidered Vest in Stretch Leather |  MELINA Belted Trench Dress in Stretch Leather |  SNATCH Minoray Dress in Stretch Leather |
 DOMINIQUE Dress in Stretch Leather |  VIVICA 3 Zip Skirt in Stretch Leather |