In Her Element with Marie-Laure Dumon, Founder of Facettes Studio

Episode 01: Facettes Studio is a Parisian slow fashion brand rooted in elegance, timelessness and traditional tailoring with the mission to redefine what sustainable fashion looks like.

May 01, 2025

It’s 12PM in New York City, and I finally got the chance to meet Marie-Laure Dumon in person! We’re sitting in La Cabra, a new coffee shop in SoHo. The place is buzzing, but we managed to find a little spot right by the window. Marie-Laure and I have been in touch through Instagram and did a previous interview for Luméra Magazine. We share a lot in common: our European roots, a love for French craftsmanship, a passion for elegant design, and a commitment to redefining what sustainable fashion can look like. Her brand Facettes Studio is a perfect example of combining style with sustainability—and I’m excited to share more of her story with you.

01 — What is “your element” and how did you find it?

I started a slow fashion brand in Paris, called Facettes Studio after working in fashion marketing for several years. I use only deadstock fabrics for my designs and everything is made locally in Paris. The idea is to help women dress more intentionally and sustainably, making them feel empowered through the clothes they are wearing!

02 — What is your purpose with your work?

I want to show that it's possible to dress sustainably while still being elegant and effortless. I think the fashion industry needs more sustainable brands that are both, ethical but yet stylish and elevated!

03 — Which moment first got you interested on this path?

There was a very specific moment during my studies at Parsons. We watched the documentary ‘The True Cost’ during a production class, which moved me to tears. Although I was aware of the negative effects of fast fashion, the documentary's thorough presentation completely changed my perspective! I immediately stopped buying fast fashion and started researching sustainable fashion options.

04 — How would you describe the style of Facettes Studio in three words?

I would say timeless, elegant but also undone. The idea is not to be too polished.

05 — What fabrics do you focus on for your brand and where do you source them?

I use leftover fabrics from French and Italian luxury houses, sourced through Nona Source, a startup within the LVMH group. Nona Source provides detailed information on fabric composition and origin, which is crucial for me. Many brands use deadstock fabrics, but I want to go a step further by completely avoiding synthetics like polyester and nylon to prevent microplastic pollution.

06 — What’s a challenged you’ve faced and the lesson it taught you?

One of the first big challenges I’ve faced was when my first atelier closed down very suddenly last summer. A brand left them with a large unpaid invoice, they were able to stay afloat for a year after that but it put them in so much trouble they ended up closing down. I then truly realized how tough the business was—especially when you decide to manufacture in France. It took me 5 months to find a new atelier I could work with, that aligned with my prices and that had the skills to make tailored garments. This taught me not to put all my eggs in the same basket!

07 — How do you stay inspired and energized?

I try to refocus on my why and list the positive things that are happening or are in the works. My why is to offer women timeless elevated garments in the most sustainable way possible, at the fairest price. I make sure to schedule alone time to recharge. You need some emptiness to fill it with inspiration, new ideas and solutions.

08 — How do you juggle your creative vision with the practical side of business?

I have so many ideas I want to try but the brand is self-funded so I’m working on a tight budget. I really try to be smart about every Euro I spend on growing the brand. I prefer to work on small collections and stick to my values: timeless styles, good fit, beautiful deadstock fabrics, local production. It takes time as this is a one-person company, but I believe in the motto “good things take time”. Everything becomes more intentional and mindful.

09 — What was a moment you felt proud within your work?

When I started getting repeat customers, it showed me that I was doing something right and the brand was resonating with people!

10 — Do you have any tips how we can keep our garments in good shape?

For blazers, use large hangers to preserve the shoulder pads from breaking and hang them with the buttons closed to maintain their shape. This tip comes from my mom. In general, always check the care instructions of your garments. While some of the Facettes Studio pieces have to get dry cleaned, especially the blazers, a few can be washed gently in the washing machine.

11 — What other conscious brand is on your radar and why do you love their work?

I know a few great brands I’d love to shout out. Studio Terre Blanche is a friend of mine who does vintage bridal and wedding guest dresses, sourcing from France and Italy and offering beautiful pieces from the 60s to the 90s. Another friend, Amicalement Soi, creates stunning silk scarves entirely made in France, she even handpaints them. And lastly there’s a brand called Waste Paris. They also use deadstock fabric and leather and have some beautiful tailored pieces as well as timeless handbags! The more brands are doing sustainable and stylish pieces with upcycled fabrics, the better—it means the fashion industry is changing and evolving towards more circularity!

Standout Pieces Worth Keeping

If you’re feeling inspired by Marie-Laure’s story and her commitment to conscious craftsmanship, here’s a glimpse of some of my favorite pieces from Facettes Studio.