Discover the creative world of Isabel Marant and Kim Bekker on the shores of Lake Como, in an exclusive interview that tells all the inspirations behind the new pop-up boutique in Bellagio, created in collaboration with the renowned luxury retailer Tessabit.

On the shores of Lake Como, <a href="https://www.lofficielibiza.com/fashion/isabel-marant-autumn-winter-2024-2025-collection-paris-fashion-week" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Isabel Marant</a> , the famous French designer, writes a new chapter in her life with the inauguration of a pop-up boutique in the heart of Bellagio . In collaboration with the renowned luxury retailer Tessabit , this new space offers an unprecedented shopping experience immersed in a magical atmosphere. Thus, an enchanting 40 square meter treasure chest celebrates the distinctive and stainless style signed by Marant.
The new store not only hosts the recent <a href="https://www.lofficielibiza.com/travel/the-trendiest-beach-clubs-on-the-riviera" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Riviera</a> collection by Isabel Marant, but also a capsule collection dedicated to the entire "ISABEL A COMO" project. On the occasion of this extraordinary event, we had the privilege of interviewing Isabel Marant together with the artistic director of the men's and women's collections, Kim Bekker . With us, they shared their incredible creative universe.
Scroll down to read our exclusive interview with Isabel Marant and Kim Bekker

L'OFFICIEL: What are your thoughts on the rise of women in the fashion system?
ISABEL MARANT: It's fascinating to see how the fashion landscape is increasingly welcoming of women. Although it may seem like they are in the minority, I think women are emerging more and more. It may be that our more reserved nature leads us to express ourselves differently than men, but if we look closer, we will find a wide variety of amazing female talent in the industry. My commitment is to celebrate the strength and creativity of women through our stories and our garments.
KIM BEKKER: For example, look at the success of brands like The Attico, founded by two women working together with great success. This shows that there is a growing need to create something authentic, that truly reflects who we are and that we feel comfortable with. This trend of female empowerment is always relevant and useful, and it is a movement we want to belong to.
LO: Isabel, did you ever work for other designers before your 'big move'?
IM: I never had this opportunity, which I sometimes regret because I think I could have grown and improved a lot. However, I was very impatient and naive at the time. I thought, 'Okay, I can do this on my own,' and I jumped in. It's typical of youth to be like this, and ultimately, it's a good thing. Certainly, I could have benefited from a little more patience and wisdom, but the choices I made have helped shape who I am today.
LO: And what do you remember as memorable moments?
IM: Among the fondest memories that come to mind, there are several, but one of my favorites is definitely my third show. At that time, resources were limited and I found myself dealing directly with the city hall and even the mayor of Paris. I remember a beautiful building with a spectacular courtyard that I had chosen as a location, and getting permission to show there was a real triumph. Two days before the event, I received news that changed all plans: we could no longer use the space for safety reasons. All the invitations had already been sent and I had no alternative plan. It was a moment of panic, but I decided not to give up. On the day of the show I showed up at the venue and the person who had written to me said: "What are you doing? Didn't you read my message?" At my puzzled expression he added: "Okay, I didn't see you." Furthermore, the collaboration with H&amp;M was a moment of great recognition and fulfillment. Going back to my first collections was a magical experience, as was the beginning of my adventure in the world of men's fashion. Another moment I remember dates back to the pandemic, when we organized a fashion show event with the dancers collective (LA)HORDE. Despite the restrictions and difficulties, we managed to convey a powerful message of love and solidarity through such an emotional event.

Isabel Marant's new pop-up boutique in Bellagio

LO: What's the secret to maintaining such an iconic aesthetic over time?
IM: I firmly believe that when you love something, that love is eternal. It may happen that sometimes we appreciate ourselves less, but what we really love remains in our hearts forever. And I think this is also true for Isabel Marant's distinctive aesthetic: there is a visual language that continues to enchant us. It's like a return to the roots, a return to the origins of the brand, to what made it unique from the beginning. It is this connection with its authentic essence that continues to inspire and captivate us.
LO: What does the latest collection say?
KIM BEKKER: We were very happy to return to female empowerment . Our autumn winter 2024-2025 show was a true celebration of this concept, bringing some of the magic of times gone by into the present and projecting us into the future with an eclectic and fascinating blend. Personally, I think it was an extraordinary success. I was enchanted by the beauty and strength of our latest collection, and feel it reflects our vision even more closely. For me, consistency is key. At a time when fashion sometimes seems lost among current trends, it is important for us to maintain our authenticity. We want anyone to identify with our philosophy and aesthetic. It is precisely this consistency that led us to create something so special.
LO: And this Italian adventure?
IM: We are excited about this project with Tessabit, with whom we have developed a solid relationship over time. Working with Andrea is a pleasure, he is a truly pleasant person. When he presented us with the opportunity to collaborate on this pop-up shop, we immediately thought it was perfectly in line with our style. Our Cruise collection integrates perfectly into the context, with a chic and fascinating elegance, but at the same time authentic. This is exactly what we want to convey: a style that reflects the sweetness of life. The capsule we present is more than just a summer collection for holidays; It fits perfectly into that relaxed atmosphere, whilst maintaining freshness and practicality.

LO: Which Italian women inspire you?
IM: There are many figures that I admire and that represent my aesthetic taste. Sophia Loren is definitely the first that comes to mind, with her timeless beauty and charisma. But we cannot forget other incredible Italian women like Monica Vitti and Monica Bellucci, each with their own unique charm. I really love Italian women. They are an example of strength and determination, far from being fragile. They represent an intrinsic strength and grit that I greatly admire.
LO: Speaking of beauty&hellip;
IM: For me, it's all about being, accepting and loving yourself. It's an inner confidence that shines through on the outside. Beauty is not just an aesthetic question, but it is the reflection of the sun that shines within us, of our authenticity. I find it crucial to convey this concept, especially in an age where social media can distort perceptions of beauty and age, making many people feel inadequate. I often receive compliments on my choice to not dye my hair and embrace my gray hair, as well as my decision to avoid cosmetic surgery. It is a very French approach, where naturalness is appreciated and the concern for appearance is less obsessive.
KB: For me, true beauty is linked to mental and physical well-being, practicing a healthy lifestyle and feeling good about yourself. However, I observe with concern that many young people focus exclusively on physical appearance, influenced by unrealistic models presented on social media. This leads them to ignore their true essence and to be fragile towards external pressures.

&quot;I remember well the doubts and insecurities that afflicted me when I was twenty, and I realize that today the situation is even more difficult for young people.&quot; - Isabel Marant

Isabel in Como: an interview with Isabel Marant and Kim Bekker

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