Lutz Huelle is back in the spotlight, and this time he’s got a powerful comeback partner: AZ Factory. The German designer, known for his label’s edgy-chic aesthetic, hasn’t graced a runway since Fall/Winter 2020, but thanks to AZ Factory, he’s about to make a triumphant return to the official Paris Fashion Week calendar.
This isn’t just any collaboration, though. AZ Factory, the brainchild of the late Alber Elbaz, is going beyond its usual “amigo” model of guest designers and becoming a full-fledged supporter of Huelle. They’ll be sponsoring his brand’s runway show on March 4th, providing both financial and production resources.
This partnership is an important milestone for both parties. For Huelle, it’s a chance to reinvigorate his brand’s presence in a big way. For AZ Factory, it’s an evolution of their collaborative spirit and a way to further Elbaz’s legacy of supporting talented designers.
AZ Factory, the brainchild of the late Alber Elbaz and Compagnie Financière Richemont, has become synonymous with innovative, inclusive fashion that cares. Its “amigo” program fosters collaboration with emerging talent, providing a platform and guidance. But Huelle’s story goes beyond a one-time collaboration. He’s become more than an “amigo,” he’s a close confidant, a “bestie” in AZ Factory parlance.
Their connection began with Huelle’s role as guest designer for the Spring/Summer 2023 collection, where he masterfully captured Elbaz’s iconic Parisian style with a casual couture twist. This blossomed into the design of the pre-collections, each a testament to his understanding and appreciation of Elbaz’s legacy.
AZ Factory typically works with young designers, providing them with a platform and support at crucial stages of their careers. They’ve worked with names such as Thebe Magugu, Ester Manas, Cyril Bourez, ShelterSuit, Tennessy Thoreson and Jenny Hytönen. Molly Molloy and Lucinda Chambers, the duo behind the Colville label. Norman René Devera and Peter Movrin, key in-house talents at AZ Factory, signed on for the Spring/Summer 2024 collection.
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This partnership with Huelle marks a departure from their usual approach, but it’s one that makes perfect sense. Huelle’s established label and experience align perfectly with AZ Factory’s values of innovation and inclusivity.
Lutz Huelle and his partner David Ballu founded their fashion brand Lutz in Paris in 2000. Since then, it has been a major part of the Parisian fashion scene. Huelle has also worked with famous brands such as S’Max Mara, Brioni and Delpozo, providing them with fashion advice.
Huelle studied at Central Saint Martins, a famous fashion school. He began his fashion career at Maison Martin Margiela in 1995. There he played a key role in the creation of the brand’s knitwear and special handcrafted lines. He has been recognized for his work with France’s ANDAM fashion awards, which he won in 2000 and 2002.
Read more: AZ Factory Pre-Fall 2024
