désignantes

désignantes refers to female designers, particularly in the context of the French-speaking world. The term is a gendered plural of designer (designer) and is used to emphasize the participation and influence of women in design fields traditionally dominated by men. In French, the noun désigner (to designate) gives rise to désigner, which can become a noun for a designer. When feminized, the suffix -ante is added, creating désignante, and the plural ends with -es, yielding désignantes.

Historically, women's entry into design has been shaped by broader social, economic, and educational trends. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, women predominantly worked in applied arts such as textiles and ceramics, often under the guidance of family workshops. The rise of industrialization brought new opportunities, yet gendered restrictions remained. The second half of the 20th century saw a gradual opening of formal design schools and professional associations to women, fueled in part by feminist movements that demanded equal representation in creative industries.

Today, désignantes cover a wide spectrum of specialties: industrial design, graphic design, interior architecture, digital and interaction design, as well as fields like sustainable design and social innovation. They are recognized for bringing diverse perspectives and user-centric approaches, often challenging conventional aesthetics and championing inclusivity. Professional networks, such as networks for women designers and online communities, provide mentorship, visibility, and collaborative platforms. Notable désignantes include Béatrice Guichard, who co-created the iconic French brand Le Creuset, and Valérie Lamy, a prominent illustrator and graphic designer.

The recognition of désignantes has grown in academia and the marketplace, with awards, exhibitions, and publications specifically highlighting the contributions of women designers. This visibility fosters dialogue about gender equity and encourages emerging designers to pursue careers in fields where they have historically been underrepresented.