Tailoring Assistant (Apprenticeship)
Chanel — Tailoring Assistant (Apprenticeship) in Paris. Apprenticeship in the couture atelier for alterations, hand-finishing and fittings.
Overview
Chanel is a privately held French maison renowned for haute couture, ready-to-wear, accessories and fragrances. The brand is recognised for its exacting standards of craftsmanship and maintains ateliers in Paris where traditional couture techniques are preserved and passed on to new generations of artisans.
Role & Responsibilities
- Support senior couturiers and retouchers with garment alterations, hand finishing and couture seam work to Chanel standards.
- Execute precision hand-stitching and machine-sewing tasks including hems, linings, buttonholes, zippers and fabric repairs.
- Prepare garments for fittings and assist during client appointments, taking accurate measurements and implementing requested modifications.
- Perform quality control checks, pressing and final finishing to ensure impeccable presentation.
- Maintain the atelier workspace and tools, manage materials and supply stocks, and respect confidentiality and brand protocols.
- Participate in technical training and follow the curriculum of the alternating vocational programme.
Qualifications
- Enrollment in a recognised vocational fashion/tailoring programme (e.g., CAP couture, vocational diploma) — alternance/apprenticeship contract required.
- Fine manual dexterity and demonstrable hand-sewing ability.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to couture-level quality.
- Reliable time management, professionalism and respect for client confidentiality.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a small atelier team and follow technical guidance from senior tailors.
Skills
Experience
No minimum professional experience required; prior internships, school-based atelier work or experience in a couture/alterations environment is advantageous.
Education
Currently enrolled in a vocational tailoring or fashion programme (e.g., CAP couture, vocational diploma) as part of an alternance/apprenticeship.
Culture
The atelier culture is rooted in artisanal discipline, mentorship and exacting standards of finish. Employees are expected to combine respect for heritage techniques with a willingness to learn in a collaborative, discreet environment.