“Creativity is the essence of fashion.” That is the guiding principle behind Atelier Chardon Savard. Right here, in the heart of Paris at 15 rue Gambey, lies a fashion school unlike any other.
Atelier Chardon Savard was founded in 1988. Dominique Savard, a graduate of the École supérieure des arts appliqués Duperré, joined forces with Cyrille Chardon. Cyrille came from the world of cinema. Together, they envisioned a school that would become a true laboratory of style.
This is not your typical fashion school. At Atelier Chardon Savard, young creatives experiment without self-censorship. The school encourages intuition and audacity. Their unique approach is called the “Creative Process.” It is designed to help students discover and build their own creative identity.
The school’s main building is in a 19th-century printing works. It is located in the vibrant Oberkampf neighborhood. Within these walls, students have access to various workrooms. These rooms are fully equipped. They include sewing and knitting machines, mannequins and cutting tables. There are also easels for sketching and design rooms with Apple desktops. The 4,500 square feet campus allows students to explore all facets of fashion design.
Atelier Chardon Savard offers several programs. These include Bachelor’s degrees in Fashion Design and Fashion Communication. There are also Master’s degrees in Fashion Design and Fashion Communication. A one-year program offers a certificate in Style and Image Consulting.
The Fashion Design program teaches students to analyze brands. They decipher trends and develop their own inspirations. Students create style files and construct their designs in the sewing workshops. Each year, students present their creations in a fashion show. Graduates go on to become clothing designers. They work in Haute Couture, luxury, or prêt-à-porter.
The Fashion Communication program trains students to understand trends. They analyze the mechanisms behind desire and identification. Students learn to craft relevant messages and create visual productions. They organize events for specific audiences. The curriculum includes fashion and photographic culture. It teaches techniques for producing fashion texts and images. Students also learn marketing, promotion, and project management skills.
Twice a year, Atelier Chardon Savard organizes a fashion show. It allows students to display their collections. A showroom follows the show. It is open to both professionals and the public. This gives students valuable exposure and networking opportunities.
Internships are a crucial part of the learning experience. They help students develop practical skills and industry knowledge. The final year of the Fashion Designer and Fashion Creator programs focuses on professionalization and entrepreneurship.
Atelier Chardon Savard has a strong network of industry connections. These include creative directors, fashion designers, and stylists. Partnering institutions include prestigious brands like Dior, Givenchy and Hermès. This network helps graduates find jobs in the fashion industry.
In 2014, Atelier Chardon Savard joined Studialis. This French higher education group supports the school’s international development. Dominique Chardon Savard and Judith Chardon continue to lead the school.
Atelier Chardon Savard is not just a school. It is a place where creativity flourishes. It is a place where the next generation of fashion designers are born. As you continue your tour of Paris, remember the innovative spirit of Atelier Chardon Savard. It is here on Rue Gambey that the future of fashion is being shaped.