BEQUARTII: IN CONVERSATION WITH IRENE KRAUZE

Inspired by the exquisite L’Impatiens Bequaertii orchid, a rare jewel of East Africa that mirrors the grace of a little girl in dance, the luxury semi-couture label Bequartii Paris is turning heads and hearts alike. Founded by the talented designer Irene Krauze, Bequartii encapsulates the essence of femininity through meticulous craftsmanship and a commitment to sustainability.

Set against the stylish backdrop of Paris, Bequartii stands out for its thoughtful approach to design. Each piece reflects a harmonious blend of elegance and modern minimalism, showcasing impeccable cuts and high-quality fabrics like wool, silk, and organic cotton. The intricate details—such as origami folds on collars, capsules adorning dresses, and flat folds gracing blouses—speak to a deep appreciation for the art of tailoring and the beauty found in unexpected elements.

Sold exclusively through their website, www.bequartii.com, and in their elegant showroom on rue Royale in Paris, the collections promise not only sophistication but also a personal touch. Bequartii offers an atelier experience where clients can collaborate with a skilled team to create tailored garments that resonate with their personal style. This unique opportunity to design bespoke clothing emphasizes individuality, allowing each wearer to showcase their own beauty and personality.

Irene Krauze’s story began with a foundation in architecture, where her love for minimalism and structural aesthetics flourished. Driven by this passion, she began sketching designs that would ultimately lead to the birth of her first collection. Over the years, her style has evolved, embracing the nuances between masculine and feminine codes while maintaining a spirit of simplicity and elegance. Today, Irene acknowledges that 80% of her wardrobe comes from her own label, underlining her belief in the power of well-crafted, enduring fashion.

In our exclusive interview with Irene, we explore the inspiration behind Bequartii, the philosophy driving her designs, and the importance of embracing one’s individuality through fashion. She shares insights on how self-awareness can elevate personal style and discusses the significance of comfort in clothing. Irene encourages everyone to step outside their comfort zone in the pursuit of style, urging individuals to experiment and find the combinations that ignite confidence and joy.

Join us as we take a closer look at the enchanting world of Bequartii through the eyes of Irene Krauze, a designer who aims to transform fashion into a personal statement, one exquisite piece at a time. Discover how this new semi-couture label is not just about clothing, but about creating a lifestyle of elegance, sustainability, and self-expression that reflects the beauty of every individual:

Can you share the story behind the name Bequartii?
The name Bequartii is inspired by the rare orchid Impatiens Bequaertii, a delicate yet resilient flower known for its unique shape, resembling tiny dancing figures. This orchid symbolizes both rarity and an ethereal elegance values deeply embedded in our brand’s DNA. We strive to translate this poetic fragility into our collections, crafting pieces that exude grace, fluidity, and a quiet yet undeniable strength.

In what ways do you define femininity within the context of your collections?
Femininity is not a monolithic concept.
it is fluid, multifaceted, and deeply personal. Rather than adhering to traditional notions of softness and delicacy, we embrace a more nuanced perspective, where strength and vulnerability coexist. This philosophy is reflected in our designs through immaculate cuts that sculpt and empower the wearer, intricate details that celebrate craftsmanship, and a balance between structure and fluidity. Whether through architectural silhouettes or sensual draping, each piece is designed to honor the complexities of modern femininity.

Can you take us through the meticulous design process at Bequartii?
Every Bequartii’s piece begins with a narrative. We approach design as a form of storytelling, drawing inspiration from art, nature, and cultural heritage. The process starts with extensive research, sketching, and fabric exploration, ensuring that every detail aligns with the collection’s overarching vision. Once the concept is solidified, our artisans meticulously craft prototypes, refining proportions and construction techniques through numerous iterations. Each garment undergoes a rigorous hand-finishing process, emphasizing couture-level precision and artistry. This commitment to craftsmanship ensures that every piece not only embodies aesthetic excellence but also longevity and a tactile connection with the wearer.

What criteria do you utilize when selecting materials for your collections?
We prioritize natural, organic, and responsibly sourced fabrics that enhance both the luxury and sustainability of our creations. Silks, organic cottons, and wool sourced from ethical suppliers are chosen not only for their superior texture and durability but also for their ability to age beautifully over time. By focusing on quality over excess, we reinforce the idea that true luxury is not about abundance but about intention.

The custom tailoring experience in your atelier sounds unique. Elaborate on what clients can expect when they order a made-to-measure piece from Bequartii?
From the moment a client steps into our Show-Room, I personally welcome her into our creative universe. We begin with an intimate discussion, where I take the time to understand her vision, lifestyle, and the emotions she wants to convey through her garment. Together, we review our past creations, exploring silhouettes and details that resonate with her aesthetic.

Next, we immerse ourselves in the fabric selection process, where she can feel and observe our finest materials natural silks, organic wools, and delicate lace understanding how each texture interacts with movement and light. Every element is carefully chosen to enhance her individuality. Once the design is defined, the piece comes to life through multiple fittings, where every detail is refined with precision. My role, along with our expert artisans, is to ensure that the garment becomes a second skin perfectly sculpted to her silhouette, reflecting both her personality and the craftsmanship at the heart of Bequartii.

As a Parisian brand, how do you believe the city influences the aesthetic and cultural narratives of Bequartii’s collections?
Paris is not just an influence; it is the very essence of Bequartii. The city’s timeless elegance, its architectural grandeur, and the effortless allure of Parisian style are woven into every piece we create. From the intricate details of Haussmannian facades to the bold modernity of contemporary structures, we love playing with the city’s contrasts, capturing its spirit through our designs. I must say that it’s mostly due to the fact that we are located between the wonderful church of La Madeleine and la Concorde. Beyond inspiration, Paris is also the stage on which we bring our vision to life. Our street-style editorials are a tribute to the Parisian lifestyle the perfect balance between sophistication and ease, where fashion seamlessly blends with the rhythm of the city.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for Bequartii over the next five years?
We plan to launch our wedding dress line in 2025. This new addition to our lines will only strengthen our expansion. However, we want to remain a brand that is close to its customers, so that we don’t spread ourselves too thin and continue to offer our customers the same quality, whatever our expansion.