Nathan Hellard’s journey from the disciplined world of the military to the nuanced artistry of linen crafting is a testament to his passion and precision. 

Based in the picturesque southwest of France, Hellard has seamlessly blended his military rigour with a deep love for textiles, culminating in the founding of Maison Hellard.

In 2021, amidst the chaos of a global pandemic, he launched Maison Hellard. At first glance, his background seems an unlikely fit for a textile firm. A former paratrooper and a graduate of the elite French military academy Saint-Cyr, Hellard hung up his sword to pursue his true passion—fabric.

Family plays a central role in Hellard's life and work. He finds great fulfilment in sharing his passions with his loved ones, and the quiet, warm environment they’ve cultivated together has inspired the serene elegance of his linen designs.

We caught up with Nathan to discuss his unique journey, the inspiration behind his designs, and the future of French linen.

Q: Nathan, tell us a bit about your morning routine. 

Nathan Hellard : My days always start with a forest walk with my dog, Vaillant. It's more than just a routine; it's a source of inspiration. Many of our clothes were imagined during these peaceful walks.

Q: You’ve lived in some of the world’s biggest cities. What drew you back to the countryside? 

Nathan Hellard : I was born and raised in the southwest of France, and there's a sense of peace and belonging here that I couldn’t find anywhere else. The quietness and warmth of the countryside, the environment we built with my family—it just feels like home.

Q: Your transition from an Army Officer to a linen merchant is fascinating. How did that happen? 

Nathan Hellard : It does sound like a leap, doesn’t it? After my time in the military, I realised my true passion lay in craftsmanship, particularly in fabric. I started with Zegna and Scabal, which were invaluable experiences, and then decided to strike out on my own during the pandemic. It was a challenging time for the industry, but it actually provided an opportunity for Maison Hellard to emerge.

Q: Describe your personal style for us. 

Nathan Hellard : I prefer earthy colours and discreet garments. For me, less is more. Today, I’m wearing a jacket made by my friends at Benjamin Barker using our ebony herringbone linen. It’s understated yet sophisticated—just the way I like it.

Q: What aspects if your life do you find most fulfilling?

Nathan Hellard : I find great fulfilment in sharing my passion with my family, whether it's a hobby or interest we all enjoy together. The environment we've cultivated is especially dear to me—its quietness and warmth create a space where we can connect, relax, and truly enjoy each other's company.

Q: How did the pandemic create an opening for Maison Hellard? 

Nathan Hellard : Typically, when you approach a mill during peak production, they’re not interested in small, exclusive runs from new companies. But during the pandemic, these mills needed work. Covid, oddly enough, was good news for us because it meant these mills were open to new collaborations. In a different context, it might not have been possible.

Q: What’s special about the linen you use? 

Nathan Hellard : At Maison Hellard, we pride ourselves on sourcing the finest Normand linen, which we meticulously weave in Italy. This process is intimate and hands-on, ensuring that each fabric embodies our vision of understated luxury. Using long-fibre flax cultivated in Normandy, our fabrics achieve a unique handle and weight that reflect a distinctly French approach, elegantly balancing the qualities of Italian and British textiles. It's a harmonious blend we are incredibly proud of.

Q: Your fabrics are known for their distinct colour palette. What inspired these choices? 

Nathan Hellard : I drew inspiration from the countryside of southwestern France, where I live. I wanted to avoid the bright hues typically associated with linen and instead opt for more muted, masculine, and mild shades. Our flagship collection, Heures Bleues, features 48 fabrics with mossy glen plaids, complex yet muted checks, and earthy window panes.

Q: What do you think defines the French aesthetic in textiles? 

Nathan Hellard : That’s a fascinating question. Everyone recognizes British and Italian cloth, but the French aesthetic has been less defined. For me, it’s about subtlety and refinement—creating something that feels timeless and elegant without being loud. It’s a journey of rediscovery, and I find it truly fascinating.

Q: How have your flagship responded?

Nathan Hellard : The response has been fantastic. Tailors, especially our first customer Cad & The Dandy, greeted it as a revelation. However, I see it less as an innovation and more as a return to our roots. Visiting museums in Normandy and Brittany, I saw the rich history of textile making in these regions. Our work is about reclaiming that uniquely French viewpoint.

Q: How has the response been for your customers?

Nathan Hellard : The support from our customers has been incredible. Their confidence in our work has been a huge driving force. It’s not just about business; many of our clients have become friends. Their trust and encouragement push us forward.

Q: Any final thoughts on the future of French linen? 

Nathan Hellard : The future is bright. We’re committed to pushing the boundaries while staying true to our roots. There’s so much potential in French linen, and we’re just beginning to tap into it. The journey continues, and I can’t wait to see where it leads.

Q: What’s next for Maison Hellard? 

Nathan Hellard: I like to think this is only the beginning. There’s so much more we want to create and share. The journey of Maison Hellard is about continuously evolving while staying true to our roots and values.

Q: Any final thoughts for our readers? 

Nathan Hellard: Follow your passion, no matter how unconventional it might seem. The blend of military precision and craftsmanship has shaped who I am and what Maison Hellard stands for. It’s about finding joy in what you do and sharing that joy with others.

From the verdant landscapes of southwestern France to the heart of Maison Hellard’s workshop, Nathan Hellard’s journey exemplifies the allure of pursuing one’s authentic path. His transformation from military life to linen artistry is a testament to his dedication and love for his craft.

Anticipate his exquisite linen creations, where tradition, passion, and understated elegance converge seamlessly. Each piece he produces reflects a meticulous attention to detail and a profound respect for heritage, ensuring that his work embodies both timeless beauty and modern sophistication.

Nathan's unyielding dedication to achieving perfection and his visionary approach to artistry ensure that his creations are not only eagerly anticipated but also cherished by discerning admirers worldwide, who value his unique blend of tradition and contemporary elegance.

The pieces worn by Nathan Hellard in this article are from Benjamin Barker Studios.

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