Talking Shop with Loren of Mamie+James: Mix + Match

What inspired you to open Mamie+James? For as long as I can remember, dresses have been a vital part of my life. I originally started Mamie+James because of my love for dresses—it’s something that stuck with me throughout design school and eventually that passion became my career. As a designer, I always hoped that dresses would become my primary focus one day. Combining all of the inspirations in my life helped me to create a kind of true-life collage of everything I love the most...and thanks to M+J it’s all in one place!

Describe the idea behind Mix+Match. Mix+Match is a result of my obsession with finding THE perfect dress! In order to feel confident in a dress, girls need the most flattering bodices and skirts and with so many body types this can result in a number of solutions. I designed each piece of the collection with specific body types in mind; full skirts are great for twirls and curvier girls, and the No.1 skirt that gives the look of a pencil skirt, but has the simple pleats - great for girls who wish for hips. All  of the pieces were designed to make girls feel great, which led me to wonder "how do I convey the collection in an easy to understand, but fun manner?" Splitting the images and having a digital application created has been my answer.  

How would you describe your dresses? Vintage-inspired with a fun, ladylike twist. I wanted a collection that would be as fabulous as a little black dress, but with the option of color. The type of dress that is a no-brainer, go-to for special occasions. I started with classic, fitted silhouettes, and added just the right amount of detail, so that the looks can easily be dressed up or down. When paired with a few bold accessories, these dresses really open up possibilities for the wearer.

{Mix + Match combo above: Belle with Skirt No. 2}

What are your favorite fabrics to work with and why?  Definitely silk of any sort has to be my favorite. I love how delicate it is and it comes in so many varieties: dupioni for great texture, shantung for a smooth finish, bold matka for pattern and pops of color, and this spring I’m excited to offer my favorite dreamy, ethereal version of this fabric...chiffon! The M+J collection features ALL of these fabrics.

Who is your fashion icon? Most of my inspiration comes from a time long gone. I find Audrey Hepburn, Edith Head, Katharine Hepburn, and Bette Davis incredibly inspirational. All very headstrong and powerful women that had sensational style. They continue to intrigue me.

Classic shapes and vintage silhouettes are very present in your designs.  Tell us a little more about that. I tend to crave everything from the 1920’s through the 1960’s, whether it’s tailored garments and elaborate accessories, music, or films. I think my fascination for history appears in my work because I long for the days when dressing up for day-to-day life was in vogue. It seems most people dress for comfort now, and it lacks the sparkle that came with "dressing for the occasion".

{Mix + Match combo: Bonne Chance with Skirt No. 5}

Where does your inspiration come from? I pull inspiration from so many things, but I like to think of the girl who wears my dresses when I create them. I think about where she’s going, what she’s doing, and what she wants to wear. On my quest to create the perfect party dress, I often end up scouring the party scenes of old films, so I can see what they’re wearing. I love watching the garment move while they dance. Which might lead me to think about garden parties, the colors, textures and patterns that appear in bright bouquets of flowers, etc. I allow my creative process to be very fluid so that I can explore anything that might come my way. I’m always on the lookout for beautiful things.

What is your fashion weakness? You may not be surprised…dresses! Especially if they have sequins.

Who shops at Mamie+James? The type of girl who wears M+J appreciates individuality, classic silhouettes, and letting her personality take center stage. She loves the aspect of being able to create a look that is special, something that is truly her own—and she also likes to indulge in the occasional twirl-fest. 

What is your favorite M+J dress combo? My favorite dress would have to be Bonnieux with No.6 Skirt. It is so classic and chic. I love open necklines– so flattering. And a long pencil skirt is perfect for more occasions.

{Bonnieux with Skirt No.6, Belle with Skirt No. 1, Bonnieux with Skirt No. 4}

Find you favorite M+J dress combo here. Sold exclusivley at Bella Bridemaid Boutiques.