IN CONVERSATION WITH JONAS KAUTENBURGER
interview by MARIE-PAULINE CESARI
Numéro Netherlands Digital presents today model, photographer, and creative director Jonas Kautenburger, captured by Tobias Holzweiler. Jonas launched his own brand LAUGÉ, which he and his friend started in April 2023.
For our readers who don't know you yet, could you introduce yourself?
My name is Jonas Kautenburger, and though I'm already 28, I feel like I just turned 20 inside. I'm a model, photographer, creative director, and also an influencer, though I don't like to say that.
How would you describe your fashion style in three words?
Silhouettes, minimalism, quality.
How do you balance the creative demands of being both in front of and behind the camera?
It's honestly easier to direct a shoot when I'm behind the camera because I understand angles and how models prefer to be approached and treated. Having been a model myself, I think it gives me an edge in terms of respect, individuality, and interaction with the models I work with. Being a model myself is tougher because I sometimes find myself reading too much into everything we're working on (laughs).
What inspired you and your friend to start LAUGÉ, and what does the name represent for you?
We wanted to address the disparity in the industry where high-quality materials and minimalist designs often come with high price tags. Personally, I often wear unisex pieces, so connecting both women's and men's fashion was important to me and Luca. 'LAUGÉ' symbolizes minimalism, a touch of luxury, and longevity.
Can you describe a moment or experience that significantly influenced your brand's design approach?
Honestly, I have thousands of ideas every day, and they come and go. It's hard for me to concentrate on one thing at a time. Rather than a single moment, it's a collection of memories and experiences that have shaped my design choices.
How has your background in sports and athletics influenced your work ethic and creative processes?
Sports has taught me so much—endurance, peak performance, and a passion for something. It's also shown me that you can't always plan everything perfectly. My creative journey reflects this—sometimes unstructured but always exciting.
How do you ensure that your brand maintains its focus on simplicity and high quality amidst a fast-paced, trend-driven fashion industry?
At times, I admire brands that grow rapidly by following or setting trends. However, as I mentioned, I want the brand to endure. To stand the test of time and, most importantly, to offer fair and authentic production and quality. Good things take time.
What books or old music albums have had a profound impact on your life and creative vision?
Old music means everything to me. I love Pink Floyd, Dire Straits, Eric Clapton. It's nostalgic; sometimes I wish I was born in a different era. In my imagination, the vibes from the early 70s to the early 80s are immaculate. I'm also a movie enthusiast. Young Brad Pitt, Michael Douglas, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Kevin Spacey (I know very controversial), Denzel Washington in his early prime… I might have watched every good film from the 90s era.
Who are some of the people you admire for living a minimalist lifestyle, and how have they inspired your own approach to life and work?
I believe that my family and friends have always grounded me and taught me that immaterial wealth is much more important than materialistic wealth. I don’t need much in life. I'm happy when I have the sun on my face, sand on my feet, and a good book to read or some music in my ears. I don’t need fancy cars or expensive watches. To never having felt the urge to buy stuff is something my inner circle always had an eye on. Very grateful for that.
What are your professional and personal goals for the future?
I want to be happy with what I do. Waking up and making a living from the things I love. Creating in all forms. I'm also writing a lot. Maybe I'll be sharing this soon in some form. Stay tuned!
TEAM CREDITS:
talent JONAS KAUTENBURGER
photography TOBIAS HOLZWEILER
editor-in-chief TIMI LETONJA
interview MARIE-PAULINE CESARI
