G4 in the Spotlight: Geoffroy’s Style

Some people always look the part whatever the occasion, don’t they? G4’s very own designer and former professional rider Geoffroy Lequatre is no exception. Whether he’s wearing cycling kit, casual or smart dress; he knows how to turn heads. It’s not that he’s an ardent follower of fashion but rather he has his own unique style which I like to call “effortless chic”. Well, he is French after all!

G4: Perhaps you could tell us a bit more about your style and what sorts of things inspire you?

Geoffroy: That’s a good question. Lots of friends and people around me ask me the same question.

I’m not as such into the culture of the fashion world. Of course, I follow the creations, some tendencies, fashion shows and big names in the world of haute couture. But I like lots of different styles and I like to develop my own ideas to create one style “the G4 Style”.

Sometimes I have the feeling that everything inspires me. Everyday is a present for designers and artists. When I’m travelling just looking around at the people, the hustle and bustle and different cultures gives me ideas.

I think having an open mind helps. If you’re open, you’ll find inspiration. There are so many events and moments that provide food for thought, but you have to be aware of them and then translate those ideas into designs.

Riding my bike is also crucial to the design process. It’s really stimulating being out in the open air and close to nature. It gives me time to reflect and analyse.

G4: Are there any particular designers that you like?

Geoffroy: I have three references that are of particular interest and whom I follow.

Karl Lagerfeld: Because he has such charisma and experience. His style is timeless and elegant even though he pushes the boundaries. He is always IN fashion.

www.plein.com/fr/home/">Philipp Plein: I only discovered his collection last year. It’s really stylish and makes use of new technology for printing on textiles. He’s extravagant and I like the spirit of the brand and his catchy slogans.

Philippe Starck: He’s my favourite designer. He designs for everybody and designs everything. I’m pretty sure everyone has something designed by him at home! He is so versatile and multicultural. He’s Monsieur Visionary – Chapeau!

G4: Of course it helps that you’re tall and slim, but you always look very comfortable in your clothes. Do you have any favourite items of clothing?

Geoffroy: No, not really, I like to ring the changes. It depends on the time of day, my mood, situation, opportunities and so on…. I like to adapt my style though I do like shoes. Sometimes I like to wear unconventional clothes, or mix styles to create a crazy look. One thing’s for sure, I love to provoke this rather staid world of cycling.

G4: How does your style get translated into G4’s designs?

Geoffroy: About 20% of my ideas go into my secret file, waiting for the right moment. I can’t yet translate all my ideas into G4’s collections largely because they are currently too crazy and too complex to produce.

But of course the rest of my ideas, of which there are far too many, are whittled down and finally translated into my designs for G4. I always put all my energy into creating the best collection which offers designs of the highest quality for our customers. This is both part of my cycling mentality and upbringing.

So G4’s designs are my identity. I’m the source of each design and every collection. But afterwards, together with Petra and our other staff, we modify, we redevelop and we re-engineer. Perfection doesn’t come easily.

The cycling world needs a more modern outlook. G4 is part of this desire for change. Let’s all move forward together to achieve “cycling perfection”.

G4:  Thanks for the insight into your creative process and we look forward to the unveiling of your next collection: Summer 2014.