In the world of fashion, where trends shift as swiftly as the seasons, Maxime-Alexandre Metzeler stands out as an emerging designer redefining the interplay between art and apparel. His work transcends the conventional boundaries of fashion, infusing every piece with profound metaphors and robust narratives. With a focus on durable materials and a distinctive approach to collaboration, Max’s designs are not just garments but canvases of expression.
At the heart of Max’s philosophy is the metaphor of “clothing as a canvas.” This concept is not just a catchy phrase but a guiding principle in his design process. “My designs barely start with a mood board. They start with a word, a statement,” Max explains. This unique approach can be traced back to his high school days when he would draw on his clothes, viewing them as an extension of his artistic endeavors. Today, this metaphor manifests in his collections through the use of techniques such as embroidery and acrylic painting, which allow him to treat fabric as a true canvas.
Max’s garments are more than just wearable items; they are storytelling mediums. He believes that every piece of clothing should tell a story or be part of one. Those stories can be very clear and defined messages, in which case Max will usually add graphics and texts to his designs. On the other hand sometimes those messages can be more “open-ended“ he says. “In my opinion art doesn’t necessarily need to tell a specific story but instead leaves space for the observer to interpret a story into the art piece. Or to make its own story out of it. Like a melody that leaves space for singing, art should leave space for the observers’ thoughts”. This narrative-driven design philosophy is evident in his choice of materials. Max prefers robust fabrics like gabardine cotton, denim, and leather for their durability and ability to withstand various artistic treatments without compromising quality. These Materials, serving as the perfect canvas, are treated with techniques such as painting, embroidering and distressing. Distressing is a recurring and important element in Max’s designs. “Every material holds a second personality underneath its original layer. Distressing brings out that personality.” , he says.
Being colorblind, Max has a unique perspective on color, which he views as both an advantage and a challenge. “Being colorblind does give me an altered perspective” he notes. By actively reflecting his colorblindness in his rather monotone choice of colors, Max invites others to see through his eyes, adding another layer of depth to his creations.
In an era where sustainability is often touted as a selling point, Max’s approach is refreshingly authentic. For him, sustainability is a given, not a gimmick. “Depending on the project I work on, I tailor my approach to sustainability, to obtain the desired results,” he explains. This can include using leftover fabrics to develop new techniques or creating pieces designed to last beyond the current season. Max’s focus on quality and longevity aligns with his broader design ethos. By choosing durable materials and crafting timeless designs, he ensures that his creations remain relevant and functional, season after season. This commitment to sustainability is not just a trend but a core principle that guides his work.
For the future, Max is seeking enriching collaborations. He values partnerships that are built on trust and complementary work ethics. While aesthetic harmony can make collaborations smoother, Max is also open to working with artists whose styles differ significantly from his own. This openness allows for a dynamic exchange of ideas and can lead to innovative, unexpected outcomes. One of his aspirations is to collaborate with painters and other artists, merging different creative practices to create new, hybrid forms of art and fashion. This desire to blend disciplines is reflective of Max’s broader vision for his brand, Bellavender, which he describes as a playground where the boundaries between art and fashion are continually explored.
Despite his young age, Max has already achieved considerable success, with exhibitions in Zurich and plans for abroad. Looking forward, he aims to deepen the synergies between art and fashion, exploring new approaches and sharing his work through both physical exhibitions and digital platforms. His long-term goal is to live exclusively from his creativity. To achieve these ambitions, Max relies on hard work, networking, and a strong focus on his mental and physical health. He emphasizes the importance of questioning one’s work while maintaining momentum, a balance that is crucial for continuous artistic growth.
Maxime-Alexandre Metzeler is an emerging designer whose work transcends the traditional boundaries of fashion, transforming garments into canvases of expression. Through his unique approach to design, his commitment to sustainability, and his collaborative spirit, Max is not only shaping the future of fashion but also redefining it as a medium for storytelling and artistic exploration. As he continues to push the boundaries of wearable art, the fashion world eagerly anticipates his next innovative creation.
To see more of Max’s work, visit their Instagram page here and website www.bellavender.com
