INTERVIEW: L8 STUDIO + LUDOVIC VALERY-GRAZIANI

In a mesmerizing whirlwind of creativity, Ludovic Valery-Graziani‘s brand has emerged as a grand ode to innovation, precision, and a profound commitment to sustainability within the realm of technical and outerwear fashion. With Ludovic at the helm, each collection is a breathtaking fusion of avant-garde design concepts, revolutionary textiles, and masterful craftsmanship, setting new standards of excellence in the industry.

Born out of Ludovic’s deep-rooted passion and nurtured by his relentless pursuit of perfection, the brand’s journey unfolds like a captivating novel, with its origins tracing back to the breathtaking landscapes of Corsica. Ludovic’s formative years in bustling London and current base in the artistic hub of Paris have enriched his creative vision, shaping a unique brand narrative that speaks volumes about his dedication to modern aesthetics and functionality. Determined to redefine fashion norms, each garment within the L8 STUDIO collections is a testament to Ludovic’s unwavering commitment to detail and sustainability. Carefully curated using the finest materials and crafted with precision in the heart of Paris, every piece exudes a sense of luxury and sophistication that transcends trends and seasons.

As the mastermind behind L8 STUDIO, Ludovic has not only curated a collection but an immersive universe where every stitch, every fabric choice, and every design element tells a story of innovation and creativity. The brand’s distinctive symmetrical zippers, featuring the mesmerizing undulating metal closure, have become iconic symbols of Ludovic’s unique approach, seamlessly blending technical prowess with a profound understanding of textile science and design. Continuing to evolve and push the boundaries of conventional fashion, L8 STUDIO invites fashion enthusiasts on a mesmerizing journey where every garment is a masterpiece of ingenuity and artistry. Through Ludovic Valery-Graziani’s visionary leadership, the brand continues to captivate hearts and minds, inviting admirers to explore fashion through a lens of sophistication, innovation, and sustainable excellence.

Join our exclusive interview with Ludovic Valery for more insights into his creative process, inspirations, and aspirations within the fashion realm.

INTERVIEW WITH LUDOVIC VALERY-GRAZIANI

Your educational journey has taken you from studying business and communication in London to specializing in Fashion and Textile Engineering at the University of West London. How have these diverse academic experiences influenced your approach to fashion design and creativity?

Arriving in London in 2018, I faced the challenge of adapting to a new language and culture. However, this experience instilled in me resilience and adaptability, qualities essential for success in the fast-paced world of fashion. Studying business provided me with valuable insights into the luxury market and the strategic aspects of running a fashion brand. It taught me the importance of market analysis, branding, and effective communication. Transitioning to fashion and textile engineering immersed me in London’s vibrant fashion scene, where I drew inspiration from diverse influences, including drill rap culture. This period of exploration and creativity solidified my passion for design. Through my education, I understood that creativity and business are inseparable in the fashion industry. Without a solid understanding of business principles, creativity risks being aimless, while business devoid of creativity lacks innovation and soul.

Can you share a specific moment or experience from your time at the Istituto Marangoni that has had a significant impact on your design philosophy or personal growth as a designer?

My time at Istituto Marangoni was a pivotal experience that profoundly influenced my design philosophy and personal growth as a designer. Engaging in comprehensive design projects, from inception to execution, allowed me to grasp the intricacies of the entire design process. Surrounded by a culture of innovation and excellence, I was constantly challenged to push the boundaries of my creativity and refine my technical skills. One particularly memorable experience was the presentation of my personal collection, followed by a collaborative photoshoot with partners from other schools. This allowed me to not only showcase my creative vision but also collaborate with fellow designers, photographers, and stylists. It was an enriching experience that emphasized the importance of teamwork, communication, and collective creativity in the design process.

As the creative director of your own brand, how do you balance the incorporation of cutting-edge technology with the traditional craftsmanship in your garment production process?

Balancing cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship is paramount for us. We strive to innovate in printing, fabrics, and sewing techniques while maintaining the highest standards of artisanal craftsmanship. It’s about finding a harmonious blend, leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and precision, while respecting the expertise of our skilled craftsmen and women. By integrating new technologies thoughtfully and in moderation, we ensure that each garment reflects our commitment to quality, creativity, and tradition. This balance not only distinguishes our brand but also ensures that our pieces stand out in the dynamic world of fashion.

Your brand focuses on pushing the boundaries of functionality and comfort in fashion design. Could you elaborate on how you achieve this balance between innovation and wearability in your collections?

Achieving the delicate balance between innovation and wearability is intrinsic to our brand ethos, cultivated through experience and expertise. We meticulously engineer each garment to ensure it performs optimally while maintaining high levels of artisanat. This process involves rigorous testing and refinement to guarantee that every piece meets our standards for functionality and wearability. We strive to anticipate and address these requirements, integrating innovative features and materials that enhance both performance and comfort. Whether it’s through ergonomic designs, advanced textiles, or innovative construction methods, we prioritize practicality without sacrificing style. By continuously refining our approach and embracing new technologies, we ensure that each collection delivers on our promise of innovation and wearability.

Each of your collections is a result of tireless research and experimentation. Can you walk us through your creative process when developing a new collection, from ideation to the final presentation?

Our creative process is somewhat confidential, but I can share that it begins with a personal inquiry into where I envision pushing the boundaries for the upcoming collection and its intended destination. At L8 STUDIO, we release only one collection per year, allowing for dedicated focus and refinement over the course of that time. Essentially, I spend the entire year developing and perfecting this singular collection, ensuring it embodies our brand’s ethos and meets our high standards of innovation and quality.

What inspired you to start your own brand, and how does your brand’s mission of empowering individuals to express their unique style influence your design choices and brand identity?

The inspiration to start my own brand stemmed from a deep passion for fashion and a personal challenge of “Why not me?” I embarked on this journey driven by a desire to carve out my own path in the industry. Over time, L8 STUDIO has evolved to embody a distinct identity and image. Central to our brand’s mission is the empowerment of individuals to express their unique style. This ethos permeates every aspect of our design choices and brand identity. Each piece is meticulously crafted to not only meet the highest standards of quality but also to resonate with our customers on a personal level. When someone purchases a jacket from L8 STUDIO, they’re not just buying a product—they’re embracing a piece of our brand’s identity. It’s this fusion of meticulous design and unmistakable identity that sets us apart and resonates with our customers, empowering them to express themselves boldly and authentically through their style choices.

Collaboration seems to be an important aspect of your creative journey. How do you approach collaborations with other designers or artists, and how do these partnerships enhance your creative vision?

Collaboration is integral to our creative journey as it allows us to merge different design and business perspectives, resulting in more dynamic and robust outcomes. When approaching collaborations with other designers or artists, we prioritize open communication and mutual respect for each other’s visions and expertise. By fostering a collaborative environment, we’re able to leverage our collective strengths and create something truly unique. Recently, we had the opportunity to collaborate with Albanera, a sunglasses brand, on a project that exemplifies the power of collaboration. Together, we developed sunglasses that change colors with temperature variations—a concept born from the convergence of our minds. This innovative product showcases the transformative potential of collaborative partnerships, where ideas are exchanged, refined, and brought to life through shared creativity and innovation.

Looking to the future, what are your aspirations for making a lasting impact in the fashion industry, and how do you envision your brand evolving in an ever-changing market?

Our focus is on sustainability and efficiency to not overconsumption in the fashion industry. We aim to lead by example, embracing innovative production practices and sustainable materials. In an ever-evolving market, we envision our brand continuing to prioritize sustainability and ethical fashion. We will adapt by refining our processes, from responsible sourcing to optimizing production techniques, to minimize waste and maximize efficiency. Additionally, we plan to deepen our commitment to community engagement and social responsibility, using our platform to drive positive change. Ultimately, our goal is to leave a lasting legacy that promotes a more sustainable future for fashion.

A letter to your future self.

« You may not have realized it, but you’ve grown, and I’m proud of you. I hope you

keep moving forward in this tunnel, even if you can’t see the light at the end. Because it’s

not the end that matters, it’s the journey that’s key. Your journey is your story. » Laylow