Ten years ago we met Anne andBertrand Vignes in Nice, on Rue Eugène-Philibert where they had opened their Atelier du Croco. Today we find them in “Nice’s loveliest spot” (Bertrand’s words, meaning Cours Saleya), to which they moved three years back. Initially these small premises were intended as a shop and a workshop where Bertrand would craft the bespoke watch straps that made his reputation, but lacking space they “delocalised the workshop a few streets away”, freeing up the shop so as to develop a “concept-store approach”. Of course the spirit of their “brand” is retained: trademark ethnic allusions, focus on top-quality materials sourced from France’s most prestigious tanneries, and knowhow honed with big names such as Weston and Lobb. So what’s new? One name answers that question: Emma, the Vignes’ 23-year-old daughter, in tune with her times, her work – she’s a member of the Compagnon du Devoir guild – and her family. “Emma brings a more contemporary, street mindset,” Bertrand explains. It’s to her we owe the Kudu backpack available in plain antelope leather or more sophisticated nubuck bullock hide. They have also opened the door to other creators who cultivate the same values of excellence and love of tradition serving creativeness. We’ll just mention Tzuri Gueta’s jewellery in silicone-injected textiles and Sophie Digard’s crochet scarves, plus of course Lazarine, almost one of the family now, being “an artist who has worked with us for a long time, her embroideries adding the finishing touch to some of our bags and purses.” A perfect illustration of family dynamics: “We’re not short on ideas here, big and little!”
Par Alexandre Benoist
Photo Jean-Michel Sordello
Côteweb 2021, création de site Internet sur Nice