Mathilde Badji is a French fashion designer and couturière based in Los Angeles. With a passion rooted in her French and African heritage, she creates timeless, handmade couture pieces that empower women to feel confident and elegant.
Mathilde graduated from Formamod Paris in 2004 and began her career at the Maison Martin Margiela creative studio. She later assisted designers for stage costumes and presented collections in Paris and Cameroon. In 2011, Mathilde launched her own brand, Mathilde Badji Couture. In 2016, she attended Los Angeles Trade-Technical College (LATTC) where she met TJ Walker, who was her fashion design professor, and successfully graduated from his class. From 2018 to 2023, Mathilde worked as a pattern maker and development and production manager at Daima Design, where she handled technical development and production for brands such as Frankie Bikini, Cult Gaia, Gigi Swimwear, Gentle Pit, and Beyond Yoga.
Since 2023, Mathilde has been working freelance as a technical designer for Rebelle Shop. She also teaches sewing and couture classes, sharing her expertise with aspiring designers and enthusiasts. She specializes in custom draping, high-end tailoring, and made-to-measure garments entirely handmade in Los Angeles. Mathilde’s work also includes costume design for films and artistic direction for dance shows. She is dedicated to craftsmanship and building a strong presence in the Los Angeles fashion community.