Our History
The Inspiring Story of Duchess Elegance
Duchesse Élégance is more than a brand: it is an expression of royal heritage and a deep passion for fashion. Founded by Mauny Bong Mathamonyele, the brand takes its name from her status as the Duchess of Bokonzi, a title she has proudly held since her marriage to a descendant of ancient Bokonzi royalty, dating back to before African colonization. This title symbolises nobility, grace and strength, values that are reflected in each creation.
Since childhood, Mauny has always had an innate taste for elegance. Her mother made beautiful dresses for her and her sister, while her grandmother created clothes for her dolls. These precious moments planted in her the dream of creating her own fashion brand.
However, her journey has not been without its challenges. At the age of 12, Mauny was diagnosed with scoliosis, a spinal malformation that caused her constant pain. This ordeal influenced her vision of fashion: she understood the difficulty of finding clothes that were stylish, comfortable and adapted to her condition. This experience forged her mission: to create pieces that combine comfort, chic and confidence, so that every woman can feel beautiful, no matter her story.
Today, as a Canadian woman, wife and mother of four, Mauny embodies the very essence of elegance. For her, elegance is not limited to clothes; it is a way of dressing, speaking, walking and living with grace.
Duchesse Élégance is the realization of her childhood dream, driven by an unwavering passion and royal heritage. Each creation tells a story of resilience, refinement and determination, inviting every woman to embrace her own elegance, with comfort and confidence.