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Making Le Mondeur: A Look Back at Our Journey

Making Le Mondeur: A Look Back at Our Journey

Two years ago, I quit my full-time job and started Le Mondeur. I had worked on human and civil rights issues since college and I was feeling, well, a little burned out. It was time for a change. I wanted to start connecting and working with people in a more positive way, and I had a serious itch to scratch with this little idea that has now become Le Mondeur.

I had it in my mind to travel to three different countries, connecting directly with artisans to build collections of one-of-a-kind, handmade clothing and accessories. So I did just that. Oaxaca marked the beginning of this journey. Jess at Monte Alban, Oaxaca, helped bring Le Mondeur’s first collection to life. Cochineal bugs on cactus pads, whose crushed bodies make a natural red dye, were part of this beautiful, traditional process.

Thailand and Georgia followed. In Georgia, tea time with felt artisans in Kazbegi—and even sampling pine cone jam—made the journey unforgettable. Visits to the art studio “Pesvebi” in Dedoplistskaro connected me with talented artisans whose work would later inspire designs for Le Mondeur. As it often goes, one road led to another, and the new Le Mondeur began to take shape early on. Our original shoes were a big hit, and I realized that my real passion and knack lay in connecting with people across cultures and sourcing unique artisan textiles that I could then turn into beautiful, modern designs.

While this abridged version of our story might make everything appear relatively seamless, there were many delays and course corrections, but I kept moving forward. I deeply love and believe in what I have created in Le Mondeur, and I wanted to share it with you, wherever the road may lead…

Happy worlding, friends. — Jessica