Where did the name Rat des Champs come from? It’s a question we hear often, so we wanted to share the story. This name, while playful, actually speaks to something fundamental about who we are and the lifestyle we champion. Rat des Champs is inspired by an ancient fable, one that has transcended centuries, languages, and cultures to bring a simple but profound message about life, values, and personal style.
This story—originally told by Aesop and later by the French fabulist Jean de La Fontaine in the 17th century—is known as “Le Rat de Ville et le Rat des Champs,” or, in English, “The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse.” The tale itself revolves around two mice from two very different worlds. The country mouse, who leads a quiet, humble life, invites the city mouse to their countryside home for a simple meal. While it’s not glamorous, it’s genuine, and there’s comfort in every bite. The city mouse, used to the finer things, is a bit unimpressed and offers to show the country mouse what life is like in the city, where the feasts are lavish, and luxury is never in short supply.
Together, they venture to the city, where the country mouse is dazzled by the riches on the table. But just as they’re about to dig in, a sudden danger—a prowling cat—forces them to flee. The city mouse explains that the constant threat of danger is simply part of city life, but the country mouse realizes that they’d rather enjoy the security and comfort of a simpler life, even if it means a less extravagant meal. The moral of the story? True value isn’t always flashy, and peace of mind is worth more than any luxury.
This age-old fable speaks directly to the Rat des Champs philosophy: slow, comfortable living that places high regard on the quality and integrity of the things we bring into our lives. The story is at the heart of our brand because it represents the simplicity and authenticity we hold dear in a world that often prioritizes speed and excess.
Embracing the Rat des Champs Lifestyle
The Rat des Champs lifestyle isn’t about trend-chasing, fast fashion, or unnecessary excess. Just like the country mouse, we value quality, comfort, and timeless style over the constant chase for what’s next. Our vintage-inspired collections embody this philosophy, blending style with function in a way that makes our pieces versatile enough for everyday life. Each item is designed not to be a fleeting trend but a beloved part of your wardrobe—pieces you’ll reach for time and again because they feel just right.
In a world driven by the fast-paced nature of fashion, Rat des Champs stands apart. We’re not just creating clothes; we’re offering a lifestyle choice for those who seek simplicity, comfort, and authentic style rooted in the values of sustainability and mindful consumption.
Why Slow Fashion Matters
The fable of the Town Mouse and the Country Mouse resonates deeply in today’s world of fast fashion and rapid consumerism. At Rat des Champs, we believe in “slow fashion,” where every item is crafted with care, consideration, and respect for both people and the planet. This means choosing sustainable materials, working with artisans, and creating small-batch collections that reduce waste and make each piece feel special.
In the spirit of the country mouse, we believe that good things don’t need to be rushed. Slow fashion allows us to focus on quality, ensuring that each piece meets our high standards for comfort, durability, and timeless style.
A Wardrobe with a Story
Just as the Town Mouse and the Country Mouse have a story to tell, so do our clothes. Each Rat des Champs piece is designed with a narrative in mind, inspired by vintage styles that echo the laid-back, free-spirited vibe of the 1960s and 70s. We want each piece to feel like it belongs in your life—not just for a season but for years to come.
Whether it’s a cozy sweater that’s perfect for slow mornings or a pair of pants you’ll wear on adventures near and far, each item we create is intended to integrate seamlessly into your everyday life. We design clothing that feels comfortable, looks effortlessly stylish, and most importantly, holds up over time.
Finding Joy in the Everyday
At Rat des Champs, we embrace the idea of finding joy in the little things. Just as the country mouse finds satisfaction in a simple meal and a quiet home, we believe that happiness often lies in the details. By choosing pieces that are thoughtfully made and timelessly stylish, you’re not only building a wardrobe but crafting a lifestyle that values the beauty of simplicity.
Each time you put on a Rat des Champs piece, we hope you feel connected to this philosophy. We want you to feel the comfort of quality fabric, the peace of mind that comes with sustainable choices, and the joy of wearing something that feels like you.
Rat des Champs: A Brand with Purpose
So, there you have it—the story behind Rat des Champs. Inspired by a classic fable, we’re a brand rooted in the values of slow living, timeless fashion, and the importance of finding joy in simplicity. We’re here to offer an alternative to the fast-fashion cycle, a chance to slow down, appreciate what you have, and fill your wardrobe with pieces that truly mean something.
Our brand may be small, but our commitment is strong. Each piece we create is crafted with purpose, designed to be a part of your story as much as it is a part of ours. We invite you to join us on this journey toward mindful consumption, sustainable choices, and, most importantly, the beauty of a simpler life.
