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Paris, the Other School Patou Manga liked to describe himself as self-taught.
He did not follow the traditional path of a young designer graduating from a prestigious fashion school with a graduation collection under his arm. His learning process was much more hands-on. He observed, worked, frequented the fashion scene, and gradually discovered what went on behind the scenes at the major fashion houses.
Several sources detailing his career mention experiences related to Balenciaga, Yves Saint Laurent, and Louis Vuitton. A profile published after his death specifies, in particular, that he worked in fabric sourcing at Balenciaga, then in supplier management for Yves Saint Laurent Couture, before a stint at Louis Vuitton. Other articles also mention Gucci and Prada as part of his professional journey.
These experiences offered him something more valuable than a prestigious name on a résumé: they allowed him to understand the luxury manufacturing chain.
The fabric. Sourcing. Cutting.
Flashmag! Edition 176 Septembre 2026
The supplier. Finishing. Presentation. The boutique.
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