One of the most anticipated shows is always J Mendel. Before the star-studded runaway show, Gilles Mendel spoke with me about his inspiration for the Spring 2012 collection. heavily influenced by the legendary designs of Dorothy Draper, the collection consists of bold color which gives the designs a youthful, modern feel while the lean yet easy silhouettes encompass the ethereal femininity that serves as the staple of Mendel’s collections. Other things that inspired Gilles were the Baroque period and old hollywood. When asked who he dreams of wearing the pieces, Gilles smiled with delight and replied, “Any celebrity woman would look beautiful in my designs. I love to see celebrities in J Mendel.”

Known for his Parisian chic aesthetic, Gilles Mendel creates feminine and impeccably crafted designs with a timeless yet modern quality.  Gilles Mendel earned J. Mendel The National Design Award for exceptional and exemplary work in the category of fashion design and was honored by The First Lady and The Cooper – Hewitt Smithsonian Museum Tuesday, September 13^th at The White House. Although he loves showing at fashion week, Mendel couldn’t help but express how excited he is to go away once the show is complete. “I try to get away for a while to relax.” However, while in New York, he said the hautest spot to hang is his beautiful terrace at his West Side apartment.

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