Translated by Bethszabee Garner

Second-hand is a goal to be achieved, which some labels are tackling head-on, like Cent Neuf. The French brand has decided to adopt the codes of a traditional ready-to-wear company but without the overproduction and the vicious cycle of trends. The result? Meticulously chosen collections and stylish pieces for the whole year. After setting up their women's branch at Galeries Lafayette, Cent Neuf recently inaugurated their men's space. Explanations.

A look back at the history of Cent Neuf

Created in 2023, Cent Neuf is a second-hand company that operates a bit like a brand. Going against the grain of a classic thrift store, it builds collections (two per year/per gender) and selects second-hand pieces from all over Europe under the aegis of its artistic director Gaultier Desandre Navarre. Then each of the finds is washed in Picardy, disinfected and offered for sale. An organization that makes the garment almost new but without the environmental drawbacks of production and transportation.

For those who buy, shopping is thus much easier because it is done without hassle, just like in a real store. Founded by Alexandre, Mathilde & Gaultier, Cent Neuf also calls on a collections director to ensure the fashion quotient of its wardrobe. This includes Ralph Lauren-style men's shirts, perfectly cut jackets and mini or maxi velvet dresses. At a time when getting dressed costs the planet much more than it costs us, Cent Neuf is a solution not to be overlooked.

The most attractive aspect of Cent Neuf is its desire to create a brand in its own right. In fact, the collection campaigns possess a total aura thanks to Gaultier's expertise, and the silhouettes are designed as if for a real magazine shoot. The latter imagines entire looks based on Cent Neuf clothes and puts them in a new context without taking away the vintage aspect that people like so much.

Often, the founding trio chooses friends of the brand to pose, which gives the project a sense of authenticity. Between style and trends, Cent Neuf stands at the crossroads of dynamics by offering a brand that is both accessible and timeless.

The consecration at Galeries Lafayette

Very close to the aesthetic of thrift stores such as Le Vif (16th arrondissement) or En Monsieur (11th arrondissement), Cent Neuf set up shop at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann last January to open its women's space (30m2).

An important moment in the history of the shop, as the designers affirm: “Two years after the creation of Cent Neuf, our arrival at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is a major step in our mission to rekindle the pleasure of dressing, without compromising between style and conscience. Because we believe that true luxury is feeling inspired and in harmony with yourself, down to the smallest detail. We are happy to be able to promote this vision in one of the most prestigious stores in the world". This collaboration is a major step forward, bringing second-hand goods into a temple of consumerism.

Shortly afterwards, on February 5, 2025, Cent Neuf inaugurated the opening of its men's corner (55m2), also at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. A consecration that makes second-hand clothing a sustainable alternative for everyday wear.