ON HOLIDAY: A Q&A WITH LISA AND LISA FROM AZUR
The Lisas sign off each email with "Lisa and Lisa," and with that, we were smitten by this creative French-girl duo. Mere hours before they took off on their month-long holiday, they graciously sat down with us to answer a few questions about their process and how Azur came to be. They also shared how they’re spending their month off and a few of their favorite places in Marseille, which only added to our wanderlust. Read on and enjoy!
CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF, YOUR BACKGROUND, AND WHAT LED YOU TO CREATING AZUR?
We founded Azur in Marseille in 2019. Our journey started with a shared passion for craftsmanship and a desire to blend traditional techniques with an artistic and contemporary approach. We both have backgrounds in design, which has greatly influenced our vision for Azur. We wanted to create something that not only showcases our love for artistry but also emphasizes sustainability and ethical production practices. This led us to experiment with natural materials and natural dyes, aiming to bring life and unique character to each piece.
THE NEW COLLECTION IS SO DREAMY, WE ALL GASPED AS SOON AS WE PULLED IT OUT OF THE BOX. CAN YOU SHARE ABOUT THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE SEASON? SINCE YOUR GARMENTS ARE ALL PLANT-DYED, HOW DOES CREATING A NEW COLOR PALETTE EACH SEASON GET AFFECTED BY THE USE OF NATURAL DYES?
Thank you so much! Our starting point for this season was an in-depth exploration of the dye plant Madder. With this single plant, we conducted extensive research on dyeing techniques and developed a rich, varied palette of reddish shades. This collection is a colorimetric journey, showcasing the incredible range of colors that can be achieved from one plant. The dyeing process is a form of artistic expression, much like painting, where the dyer brings out and refines the color possibilities of the plant.
Creating a new color palette with natural dyes is both a challenge and a delight. The inherent variability of plant materials means that each batch can produce slightly different results, adding unique character to every piece. All dyeing is done by us, Lisa and Lisa, in Marseille, ensuring a deep connection to local production and artisanal techniques. This organic, hands-on approach ensures that each collection is a true reflection of the materials and methods we explore and celebrate.
FAVORITE PIECE FROM THE NEW COLLECTION? ANYTHING FROM YOUR WARDROBE YOU REACH FOR TIME AND AGAIN TO STYLE YOUR AZUR PIECES WITH?
One of our favorite pieces from the new collection is the Crumpled Satin Silk Bustier. It's form-fitting and flattering, with a beautiful texture that adds a unique touch to any outfit. This top is incredibly versatile and can be layered over a shirt, a tee-shirt, or even a dress, making it a standout piece in any wardrobe.
When it comes to styling Azur pieces, we often reach for simple, timeless basics. Basic cotton or linen undyed pants or skirt pair beautifully with our pleated tops. A basic cotton shirt worn over a pleated skirt creates a balanced look, allowing the vibrant and special nature of the pleated pieces to truly stand out and elevate the ensemble.
YOU ARE BASED IN MARSEILLE, A CITY I'VE ALWAYS BEEN INTRIGUED BY BUT YET TO VISIT. CAN YOU GIVE US A QUICK GUIDE TO THE BEST SPOTS IN THE CITY? ANY UNDER-THE-RADAR BRANDS OR STORES WE NEED TO KNOW ABOUT?
A few must-go spots in Marseille include:
Restaurant: Limmat; Limon (sandwiches)
Architecture: Cité Radieuse by Le Corbusier
Art: Double V gallery; Pavillon Southway
Shop: Oeuvres Sensibles (by appointment); Maison Empereur; Sepia Swing Club (vintage store)
Café: Deep Coffee; Brulerie Moka
Bakery: House of Pain; Pain Pan
Brands: Inès Bressand; Mifig (Romane Prunière); Oeuvres Sensibles
WE KNOW WE'RE PUSHING OUR LUCK SENDING THESE QUESTIONS SO CLOSE TO WHEN EVERYONE GOES ON HOLIDAY... ANY SPECIAL PLANS OR YEARLY TRADITIONS? WOULD LOVE A GLIMPSE AT WHAT LIFE IS LIKE TO TAKE THE MONTH OF AUGUST OFF. HOW DO YOU RECHARGE? AND IF YOU FEEL LIKE SHARING, WHAT ARE YOU PACKING AND PLANNING TO WEAR ON REPEAT?
Taking the month of August off is a new tradition we've embraced for the past three years. We realized how crucial this break is for us to recharge, spark creativity, and ensure we continue to love what we do. It helps prevent our work from feeling like a burden and keeps our passion alive.
This year, Lisa Favreau is off on a bike trip through Finland, while I, Lisa Guedel-Dolle, am heading on a car trip through the UK. With the hot weather in Marseille, we’re looking forward to cooler climates as a refreshing change.
As we are both going on road trips, our clothing for August will be very simple and comfortable, pieces we're not afraid to lose or stain. But after our travels, we always look forward to re-engaging with our wardrobe and rediscovering the joy of dressing up.
THIS WOULDN'T BE A VESTIGE Q&A IF WE DIDN'T ASK FOR YOUR VESTIGE WISHLIST... COULD YOU SHARE YOUR FAVORITE PIECES THAT YOU'D LOVE TO STYLE WITH AZUR?
Love these brands. These pieces would be the perfect match for Azur!
Luna Mesh Slipper in Silver from Le Monde Beryl
Rotonda Ballerina in Silver from Eledera
Relaxed Lasso Long Jean in Hyde Wash from B Sides
Car Tee in Audrey from Flore Flore
Tie Pants in Red from Brooke Callahan
Tour de France Shorts in Red from Gil Rodriguez
Pincel Vest in Caramel from Nitto
Thanks for sharing all of your beautiful photos, Lisa & Lisa, can't wait to see what comes out of your studio next. Until then, happy holiday-ing!