For many years now, Marie-Pier Desharnais has been renowned for her expertise in mountaineering and outdoor adventures. Regardless of her prowess, she is often told that she doesn’t fit the description because of her overtly feminine look. Collaborating with Clorophylle’s designers on a brand-new clothing collection has enabled her to create pieces that are perfect for playing outside, but that don't compromise her personality and unique style. As she says, “just because you love the mountains doesn't mean you have to forget yourself or erase certain elements of your personality.” Here's a recap of the collaboration.
A collaboration based on friendship
It all began when Chlorophylle’s design team wanted to create an exclusive piece for Marie-Pier, a one-piece winter suit warm enough for her expeditions to the highest peaks. But they didn't stop there! In fact, our designers quickly realized that other garments would be needed to meet the mountaineer's varied needs, such as a coat, vest, snow pants or even a sweater perfect for multi-layering.
“Marie-Pier climbs the highest mountains, like Mount Everest, but she also hikes. She's constantly on the move. We wanted a collection that catered to a whole range of activities,” says Émilie, one of our designers.
Discussions then got underway to create pieces that would suit her active lifestyle. Marie-Pier says that our team listened to her needs, and showed her willingness to learn more about the specifics of creating technical garments. A creative process that forged lasting friendships. “Chlorophylle is a welcoming brand. We wanted Marie-Pier to feel free to express herself, and for our two worlds to meet,” adds Stéphanie, also a designer.
Marie-Pier points out that the whole team “was incredibly patient”. Several iterations were necessary to create the best possible products. Fabrics were carefully chosen, as were the colours of each piece. These include purple, Marie-Pier's favourite colour, which is also an ode to her femininity!
Clothing made in Marie-Pier's image
Marie-Pier says that when she started out in the mountains, she felt a certain judgment from others. The looks she received implied that she wasn't cut out to be a mountaineer simply because she was a woman who fully embraced her femininity. But she didn't give up! For her, wearing lipstick in the mountains, for example, is a way of telling off those who question her place.
“You can embrace your femininity and still love and excel at extreme sports. It's got nothing to do with it! No more taboos,” declares Marie-Pier Desharnais.
It's fair to say that Marie-Pier has shaken up beliefs in mountaineering and challenged old mentalities, but above all she has inspired many women to follow in her footsteps, to set out and conquer vast playgrounds. And that makes her proud!
Our designers recall the first time Marie-Pier tried on the Nomade collection. They were immediately touched by how beautiful and strong she felt. The team is unanimous: Marie-Pier is an inspiration. In the environment in which she evolves, clothes are rarely adapted for women. She often has to settle for the baggy fit and sober colours of the men’s collection. The challenge was a tall one, but we believe we met it with flying colours.
“We wanted to understand Marie-Pier's needs so we could meet them. We chose fabrics that could accompany her on every stage of her excursions, whether in town or at her base camp. The minute we met Marie-Pier, we said to ourselves, 'Wow, we're on board with her project!” said Émilie.
The chosen fabrics are stretchy, high-performance and long-lasting. And what's more, you don't have to be a mountaineer to enjoy them! It's perfect for people who venture everywhere, no matter the time, no matter the weather, whether hiking in the mountains or walking in the city. The collection is available for men and women alike.
Pieces that will turn heads
Femininity, comfort and versatility are the first words uttered when Marie-Pier and our team are asked to describe the collection. In fact, during her expeditions, even before the collection was available, Marie-Pier’s fellow adventurers would constantly ask when they could get their hands on their own pieces. We are proud to announce that they are officially available!
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