FashionMag42 Serbia meets artist and fashion author Marie Es-Borrat, whose work moves effortlessly between painting, craftsmanship, and editorial storytelling. From Milan’s urban minimalism to Switzerland’s natural poetry, Marie shares the origins of her floral universe, her artistic influences, and the path that led her to writing for Paris Match Suisse and ELLE SUISSE.

FM42: When and how did your love for painting begin, particularly with floral subjects?

Marie Es-Borrat: I’ve always painted, ever since I was a child. When I worked in Italy within Zegna Creative and Design Department, I painted abstract landscapes on weekends—ultra-minimalist, clean, and rigorous, based on a play of materials. A gallery owner would come and select my works for his exhibitions. And they resonated with the urban style of Milan. Back in Switzerland, I rediscovered my connection to nature and the desire to paint flowers.

FM42: Why did flowers become the central theme of your artistic expression?

Marie Es-Borrat: My theme “Nature is part of us” was born in 2012 from a powerful observation. I realized that we are intrinsically linked to our environment. We are an extension of nature, and without it, we cannot exist.

Flowers are colorful and beautiful, they remind me of fashion, my other favorite world.

Today, they are omnipresent. At the time, however, they were considered “has-beens.” Nevertheless, my work remains in motion, driven by conscious introspection and attention to my surroundings.

FM42: Which artists or artistic movements have influenced your painting style?

Marie Es-Borrat: Oh my goodness, there are so many! (laughs)

Lawrence Carroll created such incredible paintings; they inspired me to create luxury fabrics. He discovered my first, more basic paintings on social media and congratulated me with a simple, kind message on my 35th birthday. It was the best gift I could have received. I was very moved by his passing in 2019.

Joan Mitchell’s work touches me deeply. She is an iconic figure of the second generation of Abstract Expressionism.

The light reflected in Soulages’ work reveals a deeply spiritual and highly subtle approach. Alberto Burri, Salvatore Scarpitta, and more broadly, informal art, are major sources of inspiration for me—fabrics and materials are two obsessions when you love and practice fashion and art.

FM42: Do flowers hold symbolic meaning for you in your work?

Marie Es-Borrat: They represent nature and rebirth.

My grandmother’s name was Rose. A few months after she passed away, her rose bushes bloomed, even more beautifully than they had during her lifetime.

We are deeply connected to nature.

Flowers are also like women: complex, sensual, strong, and fragile all at once.
In fact, during my stay in Paris at «La Fondation Suisse / Pavillon Le Corbusier», I “stylized” my roommates, transforming them into flower women, which I exhibited on Le Corbusier’s monochromatic walls. It was a chance encounter mixed with audacity.

Women and the complexity of humanity are central themes in my life and in my artistic practice.

FM42: What path led you to writing?

Marie Es-Borrat: After completing advanced studies in mid-range and high-end ready-to-wear management, as well as obtaining a postgraduate degree in style,
I worked for over fifteen years as a product manager, concept researcher, and designer for luxury brands. I know Fashion because I created it.

At the same time, I painted, exhibited, drew, studied concepts, and conducted my own artistic research. In 2022, after the “outcomes” of Covid and some personal upheavals, I felt the need to write. That’s how I started writing as a fashion author, first for the Swiss edition of Paris Match. Then I continued with ELLE SUISSE magazine.

FM42: Which topics are most important for you to explore through your writing?

Marie Es-Borrat: I like to emphasize eco-responsibility, the poetry of a garments, and handcraft expertise—the beauty of the gesture, the magic of scent. My thinking is always around atmospheres, silhouettes, designs, and narrative. I know very well these handcrafts “métiers”: they embody heritage, passion, and the passing on of knowledge and deep expertise.

Moreover, having studied women’s fashion and designed men’s jackets, coats, and trousers for over ten years, I appreciate both worlds. When they come together through a cross-disciplinary, contemporary approach, I find it truly inspiring.

I also occasionally write texts for artist friends or exhibitions, which is always an engaging and stimulating exercise.

FM42: How does ELLE SUISSE, as a global magazine, shape your professional perspective and writing style?

Marie Es-Borrat: ELLE Switzerland is an exceptional magazine, resolutely positive in its outlook. It celebrates active, contemporary women. Since 2022, I have been contributing as a writer, proposing themes aligned with my passions for fashion and art. This collaboration has been rich and fulfilling, marked by inspiring exchanges and wonderful encounters. Exploring craftsmanship and spotting new trends — it’s truly exhilarating!

FM42: How does ELLE SUISSE, as a global magazine, shape your professional perspective and writing style?

Marie Es-Borrat: I follow my instincts, observe the world, and listen to my inner feelings.

FM42: How do you follow and interpret trends in culture, fashion, and art?

Marie Es-Borrat: I follow my instincts, observe the world, and listen to my inner feelings.