Designer Q&A with Valerie Dumaine

Victoire loves Valerie Dumaine. We've been carrying Valerie's designs since the early days of our shop opening and it's been a treat to see her evolve as a designer. Regardless of whatever new techniques she employs or new fascination she explores in her designs, Valerie's garments are always impeccably tailored, super feminine and sexy. 

So while we love her clothes, we also love her personality. She's a total sweetheart. Last season, she drove to Ottawa and hand delivered her clothes to us (and there was a lot, so it saved us a lot of time having to unpack and hang and re-steam everything - a class act!). 

It's worth noting that Valerie rocks the red lipstick like no other.

We sent a Q&A to a few of our designers a little while back, and here is Valerie's. Hope you enjoy.
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Where do you currently reside?  Montreal

Describe your personal style in five words?  Relaxed (effortless?), black, refined, clean (épuré/sobre in french), timeless (try not to be in the latest trend). 

Can you explain to us how your individual style is reflected in your creations?  I guess it is very well reflected in my creations.  That's how I would also describe my line!  I design clothes that I would wear.

What inspires you to continue exploring your creativity? Clothes in general! I look at the clothes that surround me, on people, in stores, in magazines, and I always feel like I can try this and try that and create more. It helps give me new ideas and inspires me to keep on working hard on the clothes I make.

How did you decide to make a living as independent designer?  I have always wanted to do this. I've been designing since I was a kid, but I never wanted to work for a big brand. I want to have the freedom to do my own clothes and do what I want to do. 

Any advice/ encouraging words for those aspiring to live off their own creativity?  Passion and determination!....and of course patience.  You have to try everything. And you can to make it happen. 

Can you share some of the pros and cons of working as a creative duo?  I've never worked in duet,  but I always work very closely with my assistant.  She is my second brain at work.  I guess the pros are that it's always very helpful to have a second opinion and it makes you re-think your designs. It helps you create with a different eye. It also helps a lot in terms of splitting the work in two!  As for the cons, I don't see a lot! A lot of good things come from working in a team.  In a creative duo I'd say that both parties have to be open minded and ready to compromise.

And a few for fun (cuz we're all about that!):

Tell us your best cat story!  Boy I have a few. My cats are quite something! When I first started seeing my boyfriend, the first time he slept over, the day after my cat pooed on my bed where he was sleeping.  I found this was quite weird.  He did it again the day after. I really thought my cat was sending the message that he didn't want this guy in the house! But then i realized that his litterbox door was stuck!  That's why he couldn't go in the litterbox and did it on my bed! Very happy that it was not a hate message to my new boyfriend.

What do you love about your best friend?  The funny side... And of course knowing that you can rely on someone is always good!

Do you crave sweet or salty? Both! I'd say more vinegary though, like pickles and olives!

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Thanks Valerie for taking the time to answer our questions.  Can't wait to show you all her fall collection!