For 15 years, Marielle has been in charge of creating Catanzaro designs, sourcing the fabrics and supplies of the future. She designs patterns, grades sizes, and more.

How long does it take you to create a collection?
It varies depending on the number of designs. It takes about 2 to 3 months.

Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get inspiration from everything: trends, fashion shows, series and movies, photos. I am always attentive to the world around me. In fact, everything can be a source of inspiration.

Do you have to be part of the fetish-BDSM-swinger world to create a collection?
No, because that’s not my personal universe, yet I have been designing for Maison Catanzaro for 15 years. However, it does require an open mind and careful listening to understand the codes and needs of this world.

What do you focus on the most when creating a new design?
Staying true to the chic and CATANZARO spirit, where the garment's cut, the shape of the openings, and the details are essential.

Can you describe your work in a few sentences and explain the key steps?
I am a stylist and pattern designer. I research different materials and accessories. In collaboration with Charlotte and previously with Patrice, we choose the themes for our future collections. Then, I sketch the designs, create the patterns, develop the prototypes, adjust the fit, grade the sizes, and finalize the technical sheets with my colleagues.

Most collections are black, red, and white. Is there another color you’d like to work with in the future?
Black is still my favorite, but we have planned new colors for next year—stay tuned!

What is your favorite part of your job, and what do you like the least?
I love the creative and design process. I enjoy less the grading and technical sheets.

How do you choose the names for the designs in a new collection?
We pick a fun theme, and then I come up with names I like. But I often ask my colleagues for help because, after 15 years, I’m running out of theme ideas!

What is your favorite design you’ve created?
It's too hard to choose! But I’d say the Regina dress from Tome 7, the Madame Jeanne jumpsuit from the Madame XY collection, and more recently, the Volcanique dress from Tome 18.

How has the lingerie industry evolved since you started?
I think the mainstream market is leaning more and more towards sensuality and playfulness. We live in a fast-paced world where we are constantly stimulated, and stress is ever-present. Women today are more active than previous generations, and they, along with men, need to indulge themselves. Family dynamics are changing, and all of this creates a growing need for lightness and pleasure.