From Normandy to the Basque Country via the French Riviera, French artisans contribute to the influence of French fashion, which is authentic and rich in regional influences. Discover five brands that celebrate Made in France with style.
Umbrellas, sweaters, jewelry, shoes… France is brimming with talented artists who focus on local, artisanal production. While every region has its share of workshops, we’re heading to the French coast, where the sea air seems to have been inspiring designers for quite some time.
H2O umbrellas
Head to Crépon, north of Caen, to discover the workshop and shop of H2O Parapluies. For several decades, the brand has been offering high-end umbrellas made in France, combining craftsmanship, style, and durability. Folding, cane, English, golf… These ultra-resistant pieces embody a certain vision of French elegance and come with a lifetime guarantee.
Dalmard Marine
In the port of Paimpol, in the Côtes d’Armor region of Brittany, Dalmard Marine has been making pea coats, smock jackets, and other sailor tops since 1922. Using almost exclusively French raw materials and local production, the brand’s style draws its inspiration from the maritime world. Its founder, Armand Le Guen, was a deckhand on the Terre Neuvas. He made raincoats and smocks for Icelandic fishermen from recycled tent canvas.
Saint James
Since 1889, Saint James has been knitting striped shirts and sailor sweaters in its workshops in Normandy (EPV certified). Although the workshops are located a stone’s throw from Mont Saint-Michel, the brand is distributed in around 30 of its own stores. Le Vrai Chandail Marin (The Real Sailor’s Sweater) – a name registered by the company – embodies French chic, whether you’re going on vacation to the seaside or strolling through the streets of Paris.
Espadrilles Bayona
Head for the Basque Country. The Bayona brand unveils collections of locally crafted espadrilles with a modern twist. And it has been doing so since 1895. These trendy shoes are available in four stores and come in pop colors, prints, embroidery, pompoms, and wedge heels.
Gas Bijoux
Founded in 1969 on the beaches of Saint-Tropez, Gas Bijoux is a French jewelry brand with a whimsical, sunny, and elegant style. The pieces are handmade in the historic family workshop in Marseille, thanks to the expertise of a team of more than 80 craftsmen.
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