Eco Fashion World

CAMILLE

Sofia Mendez-Schenone was born in Chile and also lived in Italy. Both places are filled with a known air of sensuality and an appreciation for femininity. She was inspired by women with a timeless appeal, sophistication and passion for every moment; women who look to have a good laugh and smile at life because they know who they are and where they stand. This is what Sofia aspired to reflect.

After graduating with a degree in fine arts and focusing on the magnificence of the human form, silhouette, lines and textures, Mendez-Schenone decided to go to Fashion Design school to get the education she felt she needed to materialize her ideas into what she had always wanted to do which was to work as a fashion designer and create her own clothing line.

Throughout school and afterward, Sofia was the manager for an apparel boutique in Victoria, Canada. This experience allowed her to get to know her customer, study what women want, and observe what they feel like when they are looking in the mirror wearing that piece of clothing that makes everything else disappear for a moment. Sofia’s work at the boutique also allowed her to slowly start experimenting with her designs, making a few different pieces for the store of which some were one-of-a-kind while others were made in different sizes, colors and fabrics. She started to get her name out there and as her designs started to fly off the shelves, she ultimately made the decision to assemble her first complete collection for Fall 2010 under the self-titled label ‘Sofia.’

Just 2 months ago Sofia won the 5th annual Generation Next fashion show/competition. She appreciates the recognition for her hard work and continues to work diligently on her next collection. Despite her hectic schedule, she kindly took a short breather to answer a few questions:

EFW: I am always curious to ask designers about the process they go through in creating their product. There are so many different ways to go about this. What is your process?

SMS: Fabrics are a big part of my inspiration - their texture, color, how they drape, pleat and feel can make a design come alive in a split second for me. When I realize I have found the right fabrics, everything else comes together very easily. I work with natural fabrics. My Fall 2010 collection is comprised of silk and wool, and for my upcoming Spring collection I have incorporated some beautiful linens and cottons. I look for luxurious high quality fabrics that feel amazing, breathe, and perform incredibly, allowing each item to become a piece to love and wear for years to come.

EFW: Your story on the About Us page of your site is very whimsical and something I can relate to… When I look at your designs through the site, I see flirty, feminine, beautiful, and fun but I also see a strong, independent woman. Is this the message you are trying to convey through your designs?

SMS: Yes, that's definitely the message I'm looking to convey with my designs. A woman that's independent, strong and secure within herself. A woman who knows who she is and doesn't need to prove it to anybody; someone who allows herself to have fun, be feminine and sensual while also feeling sophisticated and beautiful. That is the kind of woman that is my every day inspiration.

EFW: What plans do you have for the future of Sofia?

SMS: For Fall 2011 the line will be growing, I'm adding some great jackets and pants to the collection that I'm very excited for! I found this amazing sustainable Italian fabric manufacturer that made every dream I always had of fabrics come true. I'm so happy and can't wait for you to see it!

LAURA

Sofia can be found at Hemingway Boutique and Not Just Pretty, both in Victoria, and Hum Clothing in Vancouver.

STELLA

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