Mathilde Badji: A Visionary in Fashion

For me, Mathilde Badji, every fabric is an opportunity to create. My passion for fashion and stage costumes is deeply rooted in my French and African heritage. Inspired by the legendary Priestess Aline Sitoe, I embody the spirit of a free and rebellious woman, believing that “Being a woman means being lucky.”

My designs celebrate all women, highlighting their curves and shapes through exquisite fabrics. Each piece invites women to rediscover self-love and craft their unique identity—“made your ID.”

Design Philosophy: My philosophy revolves around celebrating femininity and diversity. I believe fashion should empower women, allowing them to express their individuality and strength. Each creation blends cultural heritage with modern aesthetics, telling a story and evoking emotions. I prioritize sustainable practices, ensuring my designs are both beautiful and environmentally conscious. My goal is to create timeless pieces that women cherish and feel confident in.

I graduated from Formamod in 2004 and began my career at the Martin Margiela creative studio. In 2006, I assisted Russian designer Alena Violskaya at the International Film Festival for stage costumes and fashion at Pierre Cardin’s. I presented my children’s clothing line to support the nonprofit Balingore and launched my first collection during French Speaking Day.In 2007, I won the Young Designer Contest, which took me to Douala, Cameroon, where I collaborated with various designers for the Annual Show II. Inspired by the charismatic dancer Rudolf Noureev, I entered the Moda Domani contest, leading to my first fashion show at Palais Brongniart in Paris.

In 2008, I assisted blind designer Mason Ewing, creating a modern Marie-Antoinette dress worn by Miss France 2007, Rachel Legrain-Trapani. I also participated in the Vlisco fashion show contest in Paris.After years of assisting other designers, I launched my own brand in 2011, debuting my first prêt-à-porter high design collection in 2012. That same year, I earned a certification from ESCP, a prestigious business school in Paris, enhancing my expertise in fashion design and production.I have designed wardrobes for films such as Mohamed Fekrane’s “Ensemble,” Marcio DaRocha’s “Le Saint et le Dragon,” and “Je Suis La,” which won a prize at the Brazilian Film Festival in Los Angeles. Choreographers Tracy Phillip and Domenic Carbone appointed me as the artistic director for their show “Blind Tiger,” where I designed.