In this episode, we explore the often misunderstood role of a Technical Development Manager. Unlike some professions, there's no specific education path for this role and the job varies greatly per company. However, everything you see in a store has likely passed through the hands of a technical developer, emphasizing the importance of optimizing fit and ensuring customer satisfaction. Our guest, Sita, specializes in lingerie, transitioning from a Garment Technician to a Technical Development Manager at brands such as Marlies Dekkers, Hunkemoller, and now Tommy Hilfiger. With over a decade of experience, she has learned the nuances of garment perfection, collaborating with vendors in China and Bangladesh and visiting many factories. Sita shares her insights on various aspects of the job, as well as discussing the implications of garment factory automation, inspired by an article from Vogue Business.

In today's episode, we're shining the spotlight on Jesse Donker, the Art Director at bol! Jesse's journey began in the world of Visual Merchandising before he stepped into his role as Art Director, wielding significant influence over bol's visual identity. Join us as Jesse shares his insights into the role of an art director, particularly in the realm of online retail like bol.

bol has been a major player in the online shopping scene since '99, boasting an impressive 13 million active customers in the Netherlands and Belgium. With a staggering 35 million items available from over 52,000 sales partners, bol's impact in the e-commerce world is undeniable. Let's dive in and discover the magic behind bol's visual allure with Jesse Donker.

In this episode, I take you on a journey to the heart of Paris, where I had the privilege of interviewing Maeva Mellet. With an illustrious career as the former Women's Ready-to-Wear Design Manager at Maison Margiela, Maeva offers a unique perspective, having collaborated closely with the renowned Creative Director, John Galliano. We delve into the intricacies of her role, gaining valuable insights into the dynamic world of fashion. Maeva generously shares her experiences navigating the demanding landscape of fashion weeks, recounting moments when dedication led her to sleep in the showroom itself. The intensity of Fashion Week, she reveals, sometimes left her feeling disconnected from reality.

As we traverse the milestones of her career – from her humble beginnings at Galeries Lafayette to pivotal roles at Balenciaga, Chloe, Givenchy, Zara, and ultimately Maison Margiela – Maeva's journey unfolds. We explore how these diverse experiences shaped her professional trajectory, culminating in her transition to freelancing.

Join us as Maeva reflects on the challenges, triumphs, and the extraordinary pace of the fashion industry. Discover the behind-the-scenes stories that capture the essence of her remarkable career, and learn how she manages to reconnect with normal life amidst the whirlwind of Fashion Week.