“Fashion is what you’re offered four times a year. Style is what you pick out of that fashion”.
And for the lady of the hour, she made sure that fashion is her life, and style is her religion. Meet Mariella, the woman behind the successful 37LA, a ready to wear brand aimed at (according to her website), individuals who want a touch of opulence and luxury, featuring the latest runway trends that will captivate the fashionista in you. Sure, she’s drop dead gorgeous and stylish,(her peers can attest that she is definitely an eye candy). But this woman is also a jack of all trades. She’s a make-up artist, a stylist, an artist (her drawings are the most adorable things ever!), just to name a few. And she’s also smart. A businesswoman who turned her love for fashion (or clothes) into a sassy,chic business that made her one of Manila’s emerging fashion designers. Her clothes have been worn by top celebrities such as Rufa Mae Quinto, Kris Bernal, Iza Calzado, Isabel Oli, and Solenn Heussaff. Get to know more about her as we delve in to the life of a fast-rising fashion entrepreneur.
What inspired you to become a fashion designer/stylist?
Ever since I was a young girl I was fortunate enough to be exposed to a lot of shopping courtesy of my mom and I guess my childhood experiences of being abroad and shopping together with the affluent lifestyle my parents were able to provide for me somehow opened my eyes to things that were beautiful, oppulent and fashionable. Ever since I was a little girl my mom would dress me up like a barbie doll and that experience made me feel special and so that’s when I started dressing myself up and experimenting with fashion and the result is 37LA.
Who/what is your inspiration for your current collection?
My latest collection is inspired by dolls hence the name “Dolly Flair”. I have very fond memories of summer when I was a little girl and I remember playing with little dolls so I came up with the idea of coming up with a collection that was inspired by my childhood days. The color scheme used was pastel since its summer time, pastel is the best color that can compensate for the heat of the summer.
What is your biggest fashion faux-pas?
Red bag, red shoes and (God forbid) red fingernail polish. – I hate
Who is your biggest style icon.Why?
Kate Moss. Need I say more?:)
Your favorite shopping destination.
Hong Kong is my absolute shopping mecca. Designer brands as well as good bargains abound in that place.
Define your personal style.
In whatever I wear, I always like a hint of femininity. I dress the way I feel, I choose only ones that suits my body and give my style more character. I try to experiment and play with different trends and try to make it work for me. It all depends on what comes to mind. Dress to cheer up!
Current favorite items in your closet.
I’m forever obsessed with florals. Neons accessories and Cut-out dresses. And my most abused white tee.
Most expensive fashion purchase.
My Balenciaga Motorcycle bag.
Next item on your shopping list.
I’m planning to buy YSL tributes or Balenciaga Velo bag. (I hope my boyfriend’s reading this! )
Favorite local designers.
Cary Santiago. Paul and John Herrera, I love the twins!
Favorite international brands/ designers.
Alexander McQueen. Marchesa and Marc Jacobs.
Your top ten fashion must haves.
– Black Stiletto pumps
– LBD ( Little black dress)
– A basic white shirt
– Motorcycle Jacket
– Statement Accessory
– Ballet flats
– Flattering jeans
– A white button-down
– Watch
– Oversized sunnies
Rufa Mae Quinto wearing 37LA.
The 37LA Dolly Flair Collection.
Any tips on how to start your own fashion line?
Having your own fashion line is getting into a formal business right? It’s not a hobby anymore so I guess as with all business, you have to study your market and work really hard to be able to maintain your fashion line. As with everything else, there is a lot of ups and downs but I guess if you are committed to your goal then everything will just flow into place.
On how to be a great stylist.
I guess in everything that you do you must first fall in love with it. As they say, when you love what you do, then you won’t need to work for the rest of your life. FALL IN LOVE WITH THE WORLD OF FASHION. Also I think that inspiration also plays a big part in the creative process. Everything just flows from it. As long as you are inspired and happy with what you do, then you have an endless fountain of creations waiting to be uncovered.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO EXPERIMENT AND HAVE FUN!
For more and official 37LA information, visit http://www.37la.ph.
Follow 37LA on Twitter! @37LA
Like the official 37LA Facebook Page:
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