Interviews

PORTRAIT OF CHARLOTTE DEREUX, FOUNDER OF THE VINTAGE-INSPIRED BRAND PATINE

We had coffee with Charlotte Dereux, founder of Patine, the sustainable wardrobe brand that blends 80s vibes with ecological commitment. Timeless pieces, “top of the pile” style, and cool fashion with meaning: here’s everything about her world.

For a truly enjoyable moment, we met Charlotte Dereux, founder of Patine, the "ready-to-report" wardrobe brand that blends 80s nostalgia, sustainable fashion, and genuine commitment. Between her "top of the pile" pieces that stand the test of time without ever getting old and her optimistic view of fashion, Charlotte took us into her world: cool, ethical, and truly inspiring.

To start, shall we use first names?

Of course!

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

So, my name is Charlotte, and I created the Patine brand 7 years ago, but it feels like it’s only been 6 months because time flies. I’m living the dream of my life with this project of an ideal wardrobe that you love and keep wearing. I also have 3 children, I’m vegetarian, I love cheese, chips, I read every day, and I watch a lot of TV series.

We absolutely love the wonderfully retro world of Patine. How did the idea of starting your own brand come about?

I’m the queen of to-do lists and wish lists. The first time I wrote down the idea of creating a brand in a notebook, I was 23. It took me another 15 years to dare to actually do it. The good thing is that I have a reservoir of ideas for about 7 lifetimes.

Where does the name "Patine" come from, and what does it symbolize for you?

The word Patine refers to the beauty that time imparts on objects. Time gives value to things when they’re beautiful, and as long as we’re attached to them. That’s what I aim to do with Patine: create pieces that people truly cherish. It’s my way of addressing climate change and hyper-capitalism: to inspire people to rethink their consumption habits, you need to create highly loveable pieces! We call these “top of the pile” clothes—the ones you miss when they’re in the wash, and the first ones you pack for a trip. :)

What are your main inspirations for imagining future pieces?

I start with a need, a key piece that feels essential and useful. I set the bar high, like the holy grail of the perfect jean that makes your butt look amazing, or the thick t-shirt like we used to have. Often, it’s memories from the 80s and 90s, things I lived through, saw on my mom, or imagined, even fantasized.

It all starts with the material; it’s the most time-consuming to source or develop when it doesn’t exist yet. I can quickly envision how this piece will be worn, what it can be mixed with. And I think about its drape—there’s a lot of intuition involved, followed by a lot of teamwork to rationalize it and make sure the quality meets our standards.

Then, I align my ideas with those of our community. This step is really important because I want Patine clothes to truly fit into the wardrobes of the people who will wear them, right from the brainstorming phase.

The 80s hold an important place in Patine's DNA. What fascinates you most about that era?

It’s a personal, emotional view, somewhat distorted because I lived through those years as a child, so it’s completely subjective. But overall, that period symbolizes a soft, cushioned moment—TV shows had laugh tracks, and nothing too serious ever happened on Who's the Boss?

It was also an era of Disneyland and hyper-consumerism, before we fully understood the environmental consequences of our actions. In fashion, I love the explosion of streetwear, logos, and the strong, triumphant women featured in 80s Elle magazine, as well as the minimalist chic of the 90s.

I think I also developed a strong affinity early on for primary colors, straight lines, and geometric shapes. Now, I try to create my own unique blend that combines all of these influences.

How would you describe Patine's style?

I would say it’s timeless yet bold. It’s joyful, not very gendered. These are clothes that dress dynamic women. There’s comfort, pockets. And I’d say it hides its game: underneath the apparent simplicity, the materials are beautiful, and the cuts are sharp.

What’s THE Patine piece that everyone should have in their wardrobe?

I think it’s a pair of jeans! A Brenda Curvy, no stretch, or the Donna if you want just a bit of stretch that doesn’t show. Then, a Tony shirt—it’s incredibly versatile. Also, a sweater; they’re made from 100% recycled merino and are super soft, which is rare. And of course, a pack of three Willie Cool T-shirts with stitched sleeves. Oh, and the cap, to stand out in the crowd! Wait, did I just list 5 ? :)

Patine is certified B Corp and recognized as an Entreprise à Mission. How do these commitments impact your daily life and the brand's operations?

It changes almost everything compared to conventional fashion practices, and even within our own brand. There are many constraints, but we don’t really feel them because we’ve built Patine with these commitments from day one.

It affects the way we design, source materials, communicate, distribute, and finance the brand. These principles are present in every aspect, and that’s exactly how it should be. No one is perfect, but staying consistent with our values is crucial!

At Kerzon, we envision our scented laundry detergents as a care for clothes, a way to extend the life of our favorite garments. What are your top tips for pampering your wardrobe?

Organize it well! Wanting to wear your clothes starts with a wardrobe that makes you excited. And having a good tailor if you don’t know how to sew. When I get back a repaired pair of jeans, it feels like I’ve been shopping.

Your favorite laundry fragrance at Kerzon?

I’m lucky—my sweaters smell amazing with Maille Câline and its violet notes! I also love Buttes Chaumont because I lived right next door for 10 years, and the woody notes remind me of that time. I enjoy traditionally masculine scents.

Kerzon in three words and three favorites?

Refinement, expertise, poetry.
Maille Câline Laundry Detergent, Parc des Buttes Chaumont Laundry Detergent, Maille Câline Fragrance Mist.

Thank you, Charlotte! Will we see you soon for future collaborations?

Of course, the first word and the last word!

Discover Patine

On Instagram @patineparis ou sur patine.fr

in store :

8, rue Martel, Paris 10th arrondissement