Nice-Première: This trophy was created five years ago. Tell us about its inception and how the idea came about?
Aurélie Cordier: The Talons Aiguilles Méditerranée association was founded in 1992 at the initiative of EDHEC students. Its mission is to promote fashion in the Mediterranean region by organizing various events. Five years ago, the new board wanted to take a decisive step by giving young fashion designers from the region the chance to showcase their talent to a jury of professionals at a competition. Paris has always been seen as the undeniable center of fashion, so Talons Aiguilles aimed to contribute to making the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur region a new European fashion crossroads.
NP: How has this trophy evolved and what will be the new features in 2007?
Aurélie Cordier: Over the past five years, the Young Designers project has undergone multiple changes. Previously, the event was held in prestigious hotels in the city of Nice, but for the past two years, we have had the privilege of being hosted by the Cannes Festival Palace. The major new feature this year is in the creative workshop. Designers will have to produce an outfit in five days on a given theme, which will be one of the outfits presented in the fashion show. Art exhibits and concerts will accompany our designers throughout this week. Through this artistic marriage, we hope to introduce the fashion world to many spectators.
NP: Who are the designers participating in this competition?
Aurélie Cordier: The latest change involves the designers themselves. Initially, the trophy had a regional focus, but our range of selection has since expanded, and this year we are pleased to welcome Swiss and Italian designers. Most of them come from fashion schools. They will have to create on two of the three proposed themes: Sans dessus dessous; The little black dress in all its forms, and Once upon a time… the enchanting woman. The winner will be offered an internship in a French fashion house.
NP: Finally, what can we wish you?
Aurélie Cordier: Our greatest pride would, of course, be for our competition to become a springboard for these designers’ careers and to establish itself as a must-attend event in French fashion. But above all, we hope it will continue, so that we can keep sharing our passion.
For further information:
TALONS AIGUILLES
393 Promenade des Anglais
06200 Nice Cedex 3
Talons.aiguilles@edhec.com
