Another project, J², (which stands for “jersey, squared”), throws traditional sizing out the window with a group of perfectly-cut stretchy squares that are slipped over the head and allow the wearer to play “shape & drape” with the silhouette. The special jersey material used in this project, Peter explains, is spun entirely from eco-friendly fibers of milk protein and cellulose, and based on which centimetered dimension you choose for your square (70×70cm, 75×75cm, 80×80cm, etc), the look can vary dramatically. Before I can even ask, Peter drapes a striking double-faced wool coat over my shoulders. All Marvielab outerwear, he points out, gives you three detachable layers, each cut from a different material. With one layer being fine wool-linen, another in cotton or linen, and the third a waterproof, the wearer can add or subtract any combination according to the weather outside. Welcome to the aptly named Coating Project. Rounding out the final two are T-Shirt Project, which rethinks the common shirt with cleverly-placed panels and combining traditional shirting poplin with jersey, and Suole Project, Marvielab’s gender-neutral footwear line. Keeping with the designer’s credo, both are devoid of embellishment and neutral in palette.

Not sure if it’s the wine or the clothes I’m intoxicated by (likely both), but what IS clear is that Sargentini is offering her customer the liberating idea of having a smaller wardrobe, yet one that delivers considerably more mileage. It raises a good debate on why most designers are content to abide by the rules of an industry which makes them work harder –– yet not necessarily smarter. With my glass now empty and my imagination full, I stroll back through the cobbled streets of the Marais, off to meet a friend for dinner. It’s raining and I’m late. I have a million things to do, projects of my own. Still, I take my time instead of rush. Because personally, I’m finding chaos to be way overrated.