Get Ready For the New Wave of French Design

From new wave cinema to Dior’s new look, the ability of France’s creative class to reimagine itself is second to none. Lately, we’re finding ourselves scintillated by the design community’s new take on craftsmanship: applying ages-old techniques to updated forms, the results are worthy of a place in French history.

VISIT

Once upon a time, the Provençal town of Vallabrègues was the largest producer of baskets in France. That tradition had all but died out when Anthony Watson and Benoît Rauzy launched Atelier Vime, a studio specializing in handwoven goods, from their 18th-century home there. Now a cult favorite for all things wicker, the brand works with local artisans to create lighting, furniture, and more in of-the-moment silhouettes. And if you happen to find yourself in Provence this summer, make sure to visit Watson and Rauzy’s shop, La Maison Vime, open from mid-June through mid-September.

Learn more at ateliervime.com.

SHOP

It’s no secret that Paris is a shopper’s paradise—and the list of must-visit boutiques somehow keeps growing longer with every visit. On our current itinerary? A quartet of new home stores that stand out for their innovative approaches to effortless French style. From exquisite textiles to exuberant ceramics with a notable pedigree, they’re worth a trip for the inspiration alone—though we have a feeling you won’t be able to leave empty-handed.

FURNISH

There’s no sacrificing craft when it comes to these new updates on French tradition: Expertly made from the finest materials and innovatively designed with an eye toward what’s next, these noteworthy pieces from our favorite modern-day brands offer forward-thinking style in heirloom-worthy packages.

CREATE

Young French artist Maximilien Pellet is putting a new spin on the ages-old art of mosaic, earning the applause of A-list designers like India Mahdavi. His handmade tiles, boldly glazed, are arranged like puzzle pieces into forms worthy of a Matisse collage for an effect that’s timeless and evocative. Explore his website to see more.

ILLUMINATE

A lamp isn’t just a lamp in the hands of the most brilliant French artisans and brands. Whether formed from hand-shaped clay, woven from straw, or modeled in sleek metal, these lights are to a room as the perfect handbag is to an outfit—they can pull the whole look together in one fell swoop.

WEAR

It’s no small feat for an up-and-coming talent to make a mark on the French fashion scene—which is why the emergence of Jacquemus, a label known for its sleek tailoring and covetable accessories, has been all the more exciting.

For spring, designer Simon Porte Jacquemus (pictured at right) embraced a more laid-back (but no less refined) look, sending models in woven raffia and leather pieces down a straw-strewn runway.

SET THE TABLE

The latest from the land of Limoges is anything but old-fashioned: In sensuous shapes, graphic designs, and unexpected hues, these French tabletop wares elevate mealtime to a work of art. Playful, bold, and a little bit mind-bending, they’re worthy of a pedestal but made for everyday living.

Everything in our shop was hand-picked by a FREDERIC editor.
We may earn commission on items you purchase.

This article originally appeared in volume 8 of Frederic magazine. Click here to subscribe!