What first led you to the tailoring craft?
I first went to Milan with the intention to study fashion design, but when I was told that it was better to have some knowledge in sewing, I returned to Germany, and found an apprenticeship with a master tailor. I was amazed by all the work that making a suit involves.
What fascinated you about it?
For me, this craft is not at all boring, even though it often is perceived as such. It requires a great technique, which is to me like building a house. You have a plan, a model, then you build the house, always following horizontal and vertical lines, as you build up the shape to fit the body. It is like being an architect of textiles.
What allowed you to evolve beyond the artisanal path?
My debut in Paris was a very liberating step in my career. I had just acquired my master tailor's diploma, and opening a boutique allowed to me to dive into creation. It gave me new freedom, and somehow released me from the strictness of the craft. The city also opened me up to other artistic talents.
How did the three masters you trained with influence your approach?
My masters have in common to have worked for the German house Max Dietl. I took from each of them what suited me. With the basics learned, I was able to experiment with shapes and materials. I worked day and night, for my clients and on my creations. Exploring an artistic process thus enabled me to reach further than my masters.