Our September icon: Jessica Troisfontaine, founder of the must-have brand Septem.
A former business lawyer, Jessica decided to "take power" over what she loved and create her brand, Septem. "An immense thirst for independence and a non-negotiable desire to do things my way" gave her the strength to create this beautiful brand with must-have combinations.
In the image of the Septem woman - bold, feminine, and elegant - Jessica shares all her secrets with you. Discover her interview in which she reveals her best tips and advice while telling us more about her brand.
Can you describe your background?
After studying law in Brussels, Paris and New York, I worked for two years as a business lawyer in an Anglo-Saxon firm... The time to realize that I was not fulfilling myself at all in this daily life. I then quit my job and created Septem, a ready-to-wear brand specialized in jumpsuits and an inspirational media to help women "take power" over their lives, whatever that means for each of them.
How would you define the spirit of the Septem woman?
Bold, feminine, as elegant in her attitude as in her way of being, a gourmand of life and good things.
Why the suit?
I started with the realization that clothing can have an incredibly positive impact on the way we feel, our emotions, our actions, throughout the day. And of all the clothes, the jumpsuit is unbeatable for conveying strength and confidence. It's the quintessential half-concealment half-armor garment.
Where do you find your inspiration for your creations?
I don't watch the catwalks and avoid deciphering trends. I want to offer timeless, timeless designs that will remain desirable and flawless throughout the seasons. I am inspired by photos of girls from the 60s and 70s, whose silhouettes are infinitely chic and super sexy at the same time.
A word to future entrepreneurs?
Ideas that are not put into practice are either idealised or regretted. There is no risk in starting out, except that of learning.
What advice would you give to women who want to re-"take power" over their lives?
To be indulgent with themselves and to be inspired. The solution is always within ourselves, but we must accept the help of others... Friends, family or complete strangers who can provide invaluable support with a few words spoken in a podcast or written in a book.
Can you tell us about Septem Club ?
The Septem Club is the inspirational media linked to Septem. It's the name of the podcast in which I interview inspiring women from all walks of life (philosophers, journalists, entrepreneurs, authors...) but also, for example, the name of the evenings (which we will resume as soon as we can) during which women with incredible backgrounds come and tell their stories during a conference followed by a cocktail.
What are your wellness tips as an entrepreneur?
As no two days are alike, I have established a morning ritual that makes me feel better and more comfortable. In practice: I do a 10-minute breathing exercise (I'm a fan of Wim Hof), I work out (it can be just 15 minutes of yoga or 1 hour of cardio) and I take the time to prepare a competitive breakfast (I love it). If I get up at 6.45 am, I have more than 2 hours of fun before I get my to-do list out. It changes everything.
How do you cut work?
In the evening I try to look at my phone as little as possible and notifications are turned off. It's rare that an email can't wait until the next morning and it's anxiety-inducing for everyone to receive it at 11pm :)
What does D+ for care mean to you? What is your relationship with food supplements?
A beautiful young brand, built with passion and thoughtfulness. Before I met Claire to interview her for my podcast, I had hardly ever taken one in my life. I have very little knowledge of anything beauty related and I'm so happy to educate myself on the subject thanks to girls who have such cool projects.
Just between us ... Do you recommend D+ for care to your friends or is it your best kept beauty secret?
That's what a good bottle of wine has in common with a beauty secret: you have to share it!
What is your mantra for the new school year? The one to stay motivated no matter what happens in your entrepreneurial life?
Every day, put the problems into perspective and enjoy what I do.
The iconic piece you'll keep for life?
My man!
What makes you feel beautiful?
To feel proud of myself.
In which D+ for care women do you recognize yourself?
- The natural and life-centric woman: taking care of myself starting from the inside, the best of nature to get the best out of me.
- The woman on the go: the gesture is effective, the stick can be taken everywhere.
- Freedom Freak': mixing freedom, festivities, nonchalance
- The cheeky one: compensating my busy schedule for a clear conscience and beautiful skin.
And finally ... "Less is more Less is more" or "More the better"?
Both! I'm attracted to clean aesthetics (less) but I'm always looking for the intensity of life (more).