Delvaux CEO Jean-Marc Loubier on Craft Beyond Borders and the Future of Luxury
Delvaux CEO Jean-Marc Loubier discusses the Belgian leather house's philosophy and its latest initiative, "Craft Beyond Borders," launched in Japan. The project pairs Delvaux's iconic bags—the Brillant, Tempête, and Pin—with Japanese master artisans, emphasizing a dialogue between Belgian and Japanese craftsmanship. Loubier, who bought Delvaux in 2011 when it was near collapse, positions the brand as an antidote to luxury's standardization. He stresses functional beauty, heritage as living innovation, and the emotional longevity of objects. Delvaux, founded in 1829, patented the first women's luxury handbag in 1908. Loubier rejects the term "consumer" in favor of "client," focusing on personal relationships with objects. The initiative took over a year of preparation and is meant to feel sincere, not mechanical. Loubier hints at future iterations but insists each must be necessary and unexpected.
Key facts
- Delvaux was founded in 1829.
- Delvaux patented the first women's luxury handbag (the Princesse) in 1908.
- Jean-Marc Loubier bought Delvaux in 2011.
- Craft Beyond Borders was launched in Japan.
- The project features the Brillant, Tempête, and Pin bags.
- Japanese artisans collaborated on the project.
- Loubier emphasizes functional beauty and real life over art.
- The initiative took over a year of preparation.
Entities
Artists
- Jean-Marc Loubier
Institutions
- Delvaux
- Whitewall
Locations
- Belgium
- Japan