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Florent Seligmann

Florent is a Brussels-based fashion designer whose work revolves around the idea of ​​a body that expresses its sensitivity and sensuality without being sexy/hot, but a new stable or unstable base where the body is honored.

 

What inspired you to get into fashion design and did you have any influential role models?

“I have always been around and into art. Both my parents are visual artists, even though I am really the only one in the family who claims to be one. I feel that I have to follow the path as if I was born for it, even if art and fashion are insecure worlds. I am just following my dream right now without knowing if I am going to succeed or not. I guess it is part of the beauty of art. Giving your best just for the sake of it.”

We noticed you share a lot of scenes from iconic films, is cinema also a source of inspiration for you?

“I always wanted to work on a collection inspired by the Giallo movement, especially Suspiria (Dario Argento), which has been a true awakening of cinematic art for me. But right now I am more focused on working on my artistic DNA to make sure I stand out for myself and not for the art of others.”

Briefly, what motivated the thematics/ideas of your Bachelors/Masters’ collections (Sissy and Frames)?

“The Bachelor Collection (SISSY) was inspired by the work of Robert Mapplethorpe - but not only the explicit part, which has been done over and over. I was wondering how to represent his iconic work with my sensibility and my point of view. I concentrate my work on the set design and the textures from his pictures. 

My first Master collection (FRAMES) is an experiment regarding the Body coming out of the Frame. Starting with an inspiration of sculptures, going through phases of mixing Bodies, and finally creating new ways of wearing a ‘Body’.”

What are your thoughts on the fashion industry today (relating to inclusivity, sustainability, ethics, strengths/weaknesses,…)?

“My thoughts about fashion right now are a bit mixed. It is the world I fantasized about while growing up. I have always wanted to start my own brand and become a big name. Now that I am part of it I feel more reserved.
I still want to be part of it in an experimental way. Creating a few replicas for each piece, or making made-to-measure pieces. I have worked on show costumes for Drag performers, singers, dancers, etc… And for me, it was more enjoyable because I get a lot of inspiration from the people I am working with.
The other big part for me in the future is to work with second-hand fabrics and leather - especially to create accessories and art in general. I have been working with Eric Bauduin for one year which has been a true awakening on how to be creative, sustainable, and ethical.”

Any other interesting facts/information we should know about you?

“My first two visual projects are semi-autobiographical works in the research of the identity and representation of masculinity. They are called "La frontière des genres" (2014), playing on the masculine/feminine. “Le rouge de ta bouche” (2017) is inspired by Narcissus and Adonis, a representation of male sensuality.”