The Art of Revivre
Tifanny Bophadavy Doche is the founder of Revivre Studio, a sustainable and ethical brand deeply influenced by her Khmer and French roots. Revivre translates to Reliving in French. She is also the Lead Designer and Global Ambassador of ReMade Cambodia — a fashion enterprise that transforms recovered textile waste into wearable products, empowering local designers and raising awareness of the environmental impact of the fashion industry. She speaks about her mission to redefine the meaning of “Made in Cambodia” through Revivre — and she’s well on her way!
Hi Tifanny, what’s your earliest memory of enjoying fashion or wanting to be a designer?
At the age of 12, I received a fashion designer kit from my mum for Christmas, complete with a light table for sketching designs. That was the moment I discovered my love for designing clothes and experimenting with mixing and matching different pieces. Initially, it was just a childhood passion — a fond memory — and I never imagined it would evolve into my entire career. From that day on, I eagerly devoured fashion magazines such as Vogue, L’Officiel, and ELLE while waiting for my parents to finish the grocery shopping. Little did I know that those early interests would shape my future in the world of fashion.
How did Revivre come about and what inspired the brand’s creation?
My ultimate goal was always to establish my own brand. While I could have pursued this dream in France, I felt a strong pull to reconnect with my roots, embrace my culture, and contribute to the fashion scene in Cambodia. The name Revivre, which translates to “revive” in French, came to me unexpectedly during a workout session. Phnom Penh was in the middle of a two-week lockdown due to COVID-19, and the situation felt mentally frustrating. Despite the challenges, I wanted to emphasise my commitment to starting afresh in Cambodia.
“The name 'Revivre' surfaced during a conversation with my uncle at the gym's condo, capturing the essence of my journey—coming here to initiate a new chapter, to revive.”
How would you describe your style and how does it influence Revivre Studio?
Revivre Studio is a modern fashion brand specialising in both made-to-order and ready-to-wear garments. Our approach blends diverse cultures and narratives, aiming to showcase the human experience through intricate details. We also prioritise functionality by incorporating practical elements — such as pockets in dresses — to enhance the overall utility of our clothing.
What does sustainability mean to you and how is this represented in Revivre?
I believe sustainability is a fundamental value that every new brand should embrace, especially for the sake of the next generation.
“Textile waste is a significant problem in the fashion industry. When I established Revivre Studio, I felt the pressure to create a brand that respects our environment, our community, and our culture.”
At Revivre Studio, we prioritise sustainability by sourcing materials locally from markets, primarily using deadstock fabrics. We control quantities by producing limited runs or unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. Additionally, we actively engage in upcycling special items as part of our commitment to minimising environmental impact. By embracing slow fashion, we focus on quality and longevity. Each collection represents a new creative journey, telling a story for those who value purposeful style.
What are some of the ways you incorporate your French and Khmer background into your designs?
During my time in France, I learned the importance of savoir-faire and a strong dedication to garment quality — values I am committed to infusing into my designs.
“Our goal is to raise the standard of 'Made in Cambodia' and take pride in our country's rich knowledge and skills.”
This commitment pushes us to set high standards for every garment, ensuring the best possible quality. We seamlessly combine this with traditional Khmer details — whether through a unique shirt cut, the incorporation of symbolic flowers through intricate beading, or drawing inspiration from people’s stories and weaving them into our designs.
What was your last favourite creation?
One of my most cherished pieces from the latest collection is a men’s jacket that beautifully blends faux leather with silk organza.
This fusion of fabrics serves as a commentary on society’s perception of masculinity — the tough exterior expected by society, contrasted with our desire to infuse a sense of romance into the character. The symbolic bow, a signature detail, is strategically placed on the sleeves, adding another layer of narrative to the garment.
What was it like to leave Paris for Cambodia and how has that influenced your designs?
In the beginning, the transition from Paris to Phnom Penh was challenging. Cultural differences made it difficult to adjust to the people and societal norms. Over time, however, I became more adaptable and mature. The initial frustration and anger subsided, and I began to appreciate Cambodia more deeply. While I still miss France, this incredible country — rich in history and stories — has become a constant source of inspiration. Every day, I discover something new about my culture, and this ongoing learning continues to shape my creative journey.
“This fusion of fabrics serves as a commentary on the societal perception of masculinity – the tough exterior expected by society, contrasted with our desire to infuse a touch of romance into the character.”
How has your role as Designer and Global Ambassador changed your perspective on fashion and sustainability?
My goals and values for establishing a sustainable fashion brand in Cambodia have not changed — they have only deepened. The opportunities to raise awareness within my community have been greater than I anticipated, motivating me to push even harder. I am doing my utmost to give a voice to Cambodia and the next generation. This journey has reinforced my belief in my ability to drive positive change.
