Appearance, body image, self-confidence: They also suffer from Corona. The pandemic affects almost all areas of life, upsets our emotional world and has countless emotional and social consequences.
How did you feel when, during the first lockdown in Switzerland, all hairdressing salons, beauty salons, as well as stores that do not sell essentials, remained closed? You probably missed not only a well-groomed appearance, but above all the human side of such moments of relaxation and self-care.
At a time when online loungewear sales are exploding and the "zoom top" is becoming the home office dress code (business-ready on top, as comfortable as possible on the bottom), few think about the small, fine boutiques that produce more than just garments. Silvia Bessenich from Basel is one of the few talented people who have mastered the high art of tailoring. As a couturière and image consultant, fashion is more than just clothing for her - it is a mirror of character and closely linked to one's own personality.
What will the world look like after Corona? Trend experts and futurologists are speculating about this. The Spanish flu of 1918 was followed by the chic Roaring Twenties. Let's hope that elegance celebrates its great comeback.
In customized Bessenich-individual pieces are countless hours of handwork. Her passion for precious textiles and refined creations gives Silvia Bessenich not only to her demanding clientele, but also teaches at the vocational school, advises private and corporate customers, and also passes on her know-how as a volunteer in humanitarian projects. Learn more about Silvia Bessenich in our interview series.
We wish you a good read!
Ms. Bessenich, if you had taken a different path when you were younger, what would you have become?
"Not an easy question! I have always known exactly where I want to go. Fashion has always been clear to me. Yet I am not primarily moved by "fashionable" things. It's the shell and its effect that challenges me about it. "How does a dress move me, how does it influence me, how does it empower me?" What is important to me is the combination of craftsmanship and creativity, of form and function, individual expression and aesthetics.
All these aspects are reflected in my fashion. But there are also other areas with a similar focus: I am very interested in old craft techniques, valuable materials, forms and their statements and effects. Society and its changes also play a big role and zeitgeist always flows into the work. Similar themes also have architecture, perhaps areas of art and culture. I could possibly feel at home there as well."
What is your favorite way to start your day?
"I'm an early riser and I love the peace and quiet in the early morning hours. I sit at the computer with a large cappuccino and do my office work - with classical music playing. I also like not to be constantly interrupted in creative processes, which is why I prefer to do administrative work when the day is still asleep. Since I limit this to 70 minutes a day, I don't run the risk of getting it wrong. During the day I am at the drawing table, in the sewing studio or I am in the salon with my clients. I don't have time to do my e-mails or administrative work.
On weekends, I enjoy extended breakfasts with the kids and then read the newspaper cover to cover in my pajamas."
What does success mean to you personally?
"A radiant customer who feels completely comfortable, attractive and supported in a "Bessenich". But for me, personal advancement is also part of it. I like to tackle new projects, research, try things out, learn and implement. I am successful when I enjoy what I do, sell it well and learn something in the process."
What would you work for free for a week?
"I am happy to pass on my know-how. Many craft techniques and skills are slowly being lost for rational reasons. Preserving these is very close to my heart. This is not a question of payment, but of professional honor!
Last year, I was with a team of my Rotary Clubs in Uganda and have worked together with "ride 4 A Woman"A women's project in Bwindi sewed washable sanitary towels. This was a great experience, which I would like to continue as soon as Corona allows."
What was the best professional advice you ever received?
"Trust your creativity! This sentence always accompanies me. Sometimes it takes a little courage, but it's worth it. I believe you are successful when you are authentic. This sentence helps me to do that."
We would like to thank Ms. Bessenich for her contribution to this article. This interview was conducted in writing.
Editor: Neslihan Steiner
Batterman Consulting Basel AG
Executive Search,
Byfangweg 1a, CH-4051 Basel
T +41 58 680 55 55
basel@batterman.ch
