Marie France Van Damme launches online platform to support artisans
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Hong Kong designer Marie France Van Damme has launched a new online lifestyle and e-commerce platform Curated by MF.
The site is designed to support the designer’s personal network of boutique designers, businesses and craftspeople, listing globally sourced curated products and exclusive private label pieces.
“In a time of health crisis and economic uncertainty, as small business owners, we have to support one another to weather the current downturn,” said Van Damme
“I have been traveling the world for the past 40 years. On my journey, I have developed relationships with craftspeople from the Souks of Marrakesh, with traders in the bustling streets of Hong Kong and Bangkok, and with small business owners from around the globe. Let me introduce you to my very talented friends who share my passions. They work with the finest artisans, their creations are limited, beautiful, and are ethically sourced.”
Curated by MF features pieces from L’Objet to Jay Ahr’s limited-edition collection of vintage hand-embroidered Vuitton and Hermes Birkin, Kelly and Constance handbags, among many other boutique items. Van Damme introduces a new designer, featuring a curated selection of their artisanal items, on a fortnightly basis. The snake at the top of this story is a US$10,000 necklace from Lotus Arts de Vivre.
The designer is known for her globally influenced line of luxury resort, ready-to-wear, and swim garments.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the primary purpose of the new online platform launched by Marie France Van Damme?
What is the primary purpose of the new online platform launched by Marie France Van Damme?
The site is designed to support the designer’s personal network of boutique designers, businesses and craftspeople. It aims to help them navigate the current health crisis and economic uncertainty by offering a platform for their products.
Q.What types of products can customers expect to find on Curated by MF?
What types of products can customers expect to find on Curated by MF?
The platform lists globally sourced curated products and exclusive private label pieces. These include items from L’Objet, Jay Ahr’s vintage handbag collection, and a US$10,000 necklace from Lotus Arts de Vivre, among other boutique items.
Q.How often does Marie France Van Damme plan to introduce new designers to the platform?
How often does Marie France Van Damme plan to introduce new designers to the platform?
Van Damme plans to introduce a new designer on a fortnightly basis. Each introduction will feature a curated selection of that designer's artisanal items, showing a variety of craftspeople.
Q.What is Marie France Van Damme's personal motivation for launching this support platform?
What is Marie France Van Damme's personal motivation for launching this support platform?
Van Damme stated her belief that as small business owners, they must support one another during crises. She drew on her 40 years of global travel and relationships with craftspeople to create the platform.
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