Since moving to Montreal, I’ve been introduced to so many wonderful designers. Hands down, one of my favorites is Masabni with its ladylike dresses featuring luxe finishes like leather and fur. Since connecting with Jennifer, the young designer behind the label, I’ve only fallen even harder for her designs. Her passion is infectious and her dedication to producing quality garments that truly flatter a woman’s body is both admirable and refreshing. In the age of fast fashion, Jennifer is setting herself apart by utilizing only quality fabrics and traditional methods of production right here in Montreal. I’m so excited to share this interview as the start of a week showcasing a collaboration that I’ve been working on featuring some of my favorite pieces from her FW 2014 collection. Make sure to check back later today for an exclusive invitation!
Tell us a bit about yourself!
I’m curious, a workaholic, and love traveling. I also love to continually learn, enjoy everything art related, being challenged, a good night out and I love to laugh.
What inspired you to start designing?
I started sketching at 11 years old and it’s been quite natural since. It’s been a passion for as long as I can remember.
Where do you find your inspiration?
From every day life but primarily from shapes, colors, textile, travels. Architecture and materials are constant inspirations regardless of the mood set in each collection. Overall, trends and street styles are also an important influence to all my designs.
Are there any designers that you find inspirational or really admire?
Karl Lagerfeld is a designer I truly admire. I loved the work of Alexander McQueen in his last years. Proenza Schouler and Céline are some new favorites.
Who is the Masabni woman?
The Masabni woman is a professional & sophisticated modern woman. She has strong ambitions yet knows how to enjoy life. She looks for pieces that are comfortable and appealing to give her the confidence she needs to conquer the world from day to-night.
Who are some of your style icons?
Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly are my all time favorites. As for contemporary style icons, Rooney Mara, Nicole Kidman, Diane Kruger and Olivia Palermo are some of the women whose style and elegance I love.
What are your must have items for winter?
A warm hat with fur, a colored cashmere scarf to break from the black we love to wear in winter time, and leather gloves.
What trends are you loving right now?
I am still liking the black & white trend and I’m also loving leather and sheer.
Are there any trends you wish would just go away?
Uggs and leggings as pants.
You have 48 hours in Montreal, what do you do? Where do you eat? Shop?
Brunch at Prohibition or la Croissanterie, Sherbrooke street for museums and shops, lunch at A la Saj on Mackay, a snack at St-Viateur Bagel, dinner at Grinder or Le local, a walk in the old port (it’s my y favorite part of the city!) and drinks at La Champagnerie.
Follow along with Jennifer’s fabulous and fashionable adventures and a behind the scenes look into the world of Masabni on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram
EVENT PHOTOS: Nas LOOKBOOK PHOTOS: Cesar Ochoa