Zébucq: The New Natural Material Crafted by an Emerging Designer in the Midst of a Pandemic
In the ever-growing movement towards sustainability in the fashion industry, Loetitia Razanamarie, an aspiring designer from Madagascar, has achieved an incredible milestone. Following an intensive training course at ESMOD Paris fashion school, she has successfully launched her first collection of handbags made from a unique material called Zébucq, which she developed herself using coconut tree fibers. This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy as major fashion brands are increasingly seeking innovative materials for their products. Luxury houses have begun collaborating with startups or investing in research and development to create materials like Gucci’s Demetra, Bolt Threads’ Mylo, and Piñatex from Ananas Anam.
However, Razanamarie’s motivation to create her distinct material, Zébucq, was not solely driven by the environmental concerns plaguing the fashion industry. Her desire was to stand out, to offer something genuinely different and intriguing. This inspiring journey began during the pandemic and paved the way for her accessories brand, VAZANE by Lora & Zéboutin.
Razanamarie’s creative journey had humble beginnings in Madagascar, where she grew up in a less affluent country. Due to the lack of fashion design training available, she initially pursued a degree in business administration. However, her passion for fashion eventually led her to take a year off after graduation to learn sewing and explore her artistic side. In 2011, she relocated to France and spent several years working in the supermarket industry, yet her creative talents continued to flourish.
The turning point in her career came when Razanamarie custom-made her outfit for a wedding in Paris and received an outpouring of admiration for her personalized shoes. Recognizing her potential, she enrolled in an intensive accessories training course at ESMOD, Paris, to further enhance her skills. It was during this time that she stumbled upon handcrafted objects made from raw coconut fiber on her sister’s Facebook page, still residing in Madagascar. Intrigued by this material, she envisioned incorporating it into the production of leather goods and accessories.
The months of lockdown during the pandemic provided Razanamarie with the opportunity to research and develop her groundbreaking material, Zébucq. She refined the material in her converted garage workshop while mastering the art of leather goods craftsmanship. The first prototype made from Zébucq received resounding acclaim, further fueling Razanamarie’s determination to launch her own brand.
Zébucq, crafted from coconut fibers, boasts a highly textured appearance and can only be worked by hand. Razanamarie emphasizes the skill and expertise required to work with this material. Unlike other alternative materials used in the accessories industry, Zébucq stands out as distinctive, rather than merely serving as a substitute for leather. It is a plant-based material with its own remarkable qualities.
While Razanamarie developed Zébucq with the intention of setting herself apart and offering something original, she also recognizes the potential of natural fibers, such as coconut tree fibers, in shaping the future of fashion. Today, people are increasingly questioning the materials they wear, leading to a surge in demand for environmentally friendly alternatives. However, Razanamarie believes it is crucial not to entirely demonize leather, as it can still be used responsibly. Each material has its rightful place, and it is vital for individuals to align their values with the choices they make.
Transparency and authenticity lie at the core of Razanamarie’s values. While sustainability remains significant to her, she aims to be honest about her creative process and motivations. Instead of solely highlighting the environmental qualities of Zébucq, she underscores its originality, texture, and ability to evoke curiosity.
Creating each Zébucq handbag involves a labor-intensive process, taking at least three weeks to complete. The meticulous craftsmanship and exclusivity of the material position these bags within the high-end designer price range, with prices ranging from €320 to €750. Nevertheless, Razanamarie is also working on a new range of products that can be produced more efficiently and at a lower cost, with prices starting at €180. This development will enable her brand to reach a broader audience and raise awareness of the unique material.
As Razanamarie continues to refine her designs and expand her offerings, the story of Zébucq stands as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity that can emerge during challenging times such as the pandemic. Zébucq is a material that inspires curiosity, authenticity, and the potential for a more sustainable fashion industry.
For more information about Loetitia Razanamarie and her brand VAZANE by Lora & Zéboutin, visit loraetzeboutin.com.
To learn more about sustainability in the fashion industry, explore the following resources:
1. Vogue Business: Sustainable fabrics from pineapple and banana
2. Business of Fashion: Microbes and sustainable fashion
