In Beauraing, Annina Grande combines her passion for sewing with haute couture expertise, serving clients from around the world, including royal patrons.
In the heart of Beauraing, a small town known for its Marian heritage, Annina Grande has cultivated a distinguished career in the fashion industry, creating high-fashion clothing that draws clients from near and far, including locations as diverse as England, Switzerland, and Corsica. Notably, her work has also reached the royal court, where she provides bespoke pieces for the prestigious label Oni-Onik.
Initially, Annina’s aspirations lay in architecture, where she envisioned herself designing buildings. However, she faced challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, which led her to shift her career path. She began teaching sewing, and over time, her passion for creation flourished. Starting her journey in a ready-to-wear store in the Charleroi area, she quickly advanced to a haute couture house in the city, solidifying her skills and vision for fashion.
Residing in Beauraing since 1981, her workshop has become a hub of creativity. “Sewing is my life, both my remedy and my reason for living. It’s fascinating because we are constantly creating new things for others,” Annina expressed in an interview. Her affinity for fashion is evident in her commitment to crafting unique, tailor-made garments that align precisely with her clients’ preferences.
Operating in an era of digital commerce, Annina acknowledges the challenges posed by online competition but is confident in the enduring appeal of personalized, physical services. “It is our enemy, but a temporary enemy because the public will tire of it,” she said, highlighting the unique advantage that personal interaction offers in the fashion experience.
For those new to the craft, Annina offers straightforward advice: “If you enjoy sewing, start with it, then move on to styling.” She emphasizes that styling involves a deep understanding of materials and drawing skills, as designs must be not only imaginative but also practical. The satisfaction she derives from working closely with clients is palpable; she relishes in seeing them delighted by an outfit that enhances their appearance.
Her designs, which she signs with her name, are known for their elegance, refinement, and timeless quality. Annina deftly blends completely original concepts with adaptations of existing designs, tailoring each piece to the individual needs of her clients.
Annina’s outlook on fashion is both discerning and passionate. She draws parallels to the automotive world, noting distinctions between products based on quality and craftsmanship. “I take the example of the 2 CV and the Rolls-Royce. They both have a steering wheel and four wheels, but the comfort is not the same, the quality is not the same,” she explained. According to Annina, just like in automobiles, clothing requires meticulous sewing techniques and personalized touches. “It is a craft, with expertise that has been built year after year,” she emphasized, underscoring the dedication that goes into the art of fashion.
In her workshop, Annina creates not just garments, but a sense of joy and confidence for her clientele, all while navigating an evolving industry landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services
