Labels We Love: Yvette Mandell
Three words: Comfortable, Glamorous, and Chic describe Yvette Mandell’s latest collection. Modern and simplistic, Yvette Mandell’s concept is based on having simplified, interchangeable items work together to create an entire wardrobe that goes from day to evening, weekday to weekend, season to season with just that perfect amount of flare. Her ultra-hip pieces balance comfort and luxe, sensual expression and freedom of movement and truly capture the essence of femininity. Modeliste is excited to have the exclusive on her new launch and sat down with Yvette to learn more about the label we love: Yvette Mandell.
What makes your label unique in the industry:
Yvette: Yvette Mandell is a lifestyle brand. From the beginning I have strived to design pieces that you “go to” in your closet without compromising comfort or style. It’s becoming forever difficult to find the balance between workout clothes and evening out pieces. Yvette Mandell is the “in between” brand with an attention to detail and fashion and fills that void in the market.
What inspired your latest collection?:
Yvette: I am always inspired by the fashion of the 70’s and this collection pays homage to that era with some flares, halters and designs reminiscent of Halston and Givenchy and Studio 54. My favorite piece in the collection is the flare and halter denim knit set that literally screams 70’s fashion – I’m obsessed with it! I also included some sequin, chiffon, knit and french terry textiles, also reminding me of the Disco generation.
What do you see as the top 2015 fashion/accessory trends?:
Yvette: No question: Fringe and Flares. We’ve seen fringe become a staple and flares are back in a serious way!
What inspires you in creating some of the season’s hottest and most trend- setting styles?:
Yvette: I am especially inspired to create fabulous pieces because I feel that the workout attire trend has made the customer lazy. Women can be comfortable, beautiful and stylish altogether without much effort at all, and this is what motivates me when I design. My collection solves this problem and I always aspire to design pieces that are easy to mix and match. You pretty much can pack my entire collection along with a pair of jeans and heels and be weekend getaway ready!!
Are there any rules to fashion you live by?:
Yvette: Mix casual with fancy (think ripped up boyfriend jeans with a sequin top), always wear platform heels or wedges and most importantly accessorize any outfit with great jewelry, a good handbag and a statement jacket – all three can wake up any outfit.
Style Icon.
Yvette: I have many but my favorites are the combination of: Jane Birkin- the original cool bohemian it girl, Brigitte Bardot –sexy, yet simple, Audrey Hepburn – the epitome of classic and chic, Stevie Nicks – Rock and roll bohemian and Coco Chanel – timeless style and elegance and the ultimate fashion icon.
What do you love most about the fashion industry?
Yvette: I can be my creative self and I thrive in this crazy, fast paced industry!
How would you describe your personal style?
Yvette: Definitely more of a glam, bohemian rock and roll girl. I’m obsessed with the fashion of the 70’s. It seems to be my go to Era.
How do you use social media to build your brand?
Yvette: I have been using Instagram for quite some time to increase awareness for my brand. Pictures are so important to highlight the details in my designs. I also continue to use Facebook and Twitter to maximize exposure and gain new customers. I launched my brand long before social media and although I am proud that my success as a designer was gained through years of appearances, pounding the pavement and tireless commitment to branding, I realize that in order to stay relevant and engage more customers in today’s market, social media expertise is crucial.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
Yvette: My father’s advice since I was a young entrepreneur many years ago – “make it happen”. Both of my entrepreneurial parents taught me that success doesn’t just happen – you have to expect to commit to long hours of hard work to achieve your goals and never give up. Today, I continue to seek advice from my husband who motivates me daily.
Greatest success or achievement with the brand?
Yvette: Starting with a dream since I was a little girl, eventually seeing my name at Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Harrods and Disney. To see women feel good in my designs is the ultimate success and I continue to create with the same passion I had since the beginning.
3 must haves this season
Yvette: Capes and ponchos, flares, Over the knee boots
Why you love Modeliste Magazine.
Yvette: Modeliste Magazaine captures all aspects of fashion and style in one publication. It’s a truly authentic account of fashion and beauty trends with the most amazing photography and video tutorials . In a digital world, I can pick up my ipad or iphone and read about fashion at a moments notice – I love that I have that option with this magazine since there can be no time wasted in the fashion business!
