Beginning December 13th, I had the honor of being a Featured Insider on I-ELLA.com, an invitation-only website which dedicates itself to selling designer clothing for social change. Not only did I have the opportunity to get interviewed about myself and the site, but I have 7 pieces from my personal closet for sale. A portion of the proceeds will be going to the Keep a Child Alive Organization, which dedicates itself to the treatment and support of families effected by HIV/AIDS. I encourage everyone to checkout the site as it’s a great way to shop as well as give to the less fortunate. I’m very thankful for I-ELLA’s recognition of The Vogue Vibes!
To get access to the items for sale,go to:
http://www.i-ella.com/closet/view/4498-lauren-valentis-closet
Code: LAURENV
INTERVIEW)
I-ELLA: Tell us a little about what you do.
LAUREN VALENTI: The Vogue Vibes is very relevant to my life in general. I’m obsessed with music and going to concerts. It’s a very big part of my life like fashion is. I immerse myself in it as much as possible. I try to go to a different event a few times a week. I love exploring the city. I love going out with friends, meeting people, and I like to travel whenever I have time.
I-ELLA: What’s the coolest part of your job?
LAUREN VALENTI: Aside from going to concerts and different fashion events, I think [The Vogue Vibes] is great for my own personal knowledge, so I do a lot of research on it, and I love learning new things that I’m already passionate about. I also love hearing from people who like what I’ve posted on the site.
I-ELLA: What are some of your favorite artists or groups?
LAUREN VALENTI: I have an eclectic taste in music, and my favorite genre is classic rock. I’m constantly exploring and trying to learn more about an era that I wasn’t able to experience myself. Going out and anything I can really dance to is really fun. I love going to music festivals because that’s really great for that. I’m also really interested in DJs like Mark Ronson and everything he’s doing.
I-ELLA: What’s playing on your iPod right now?
LAUREN VALENTI: Right now it’s Christmas music, but before that it was The Black Keys and The Roots.
I-ELLA: How would you define your personal style?
LAUREN VALENTI: As far as the ‘60s and ‘70s, I really look to the Rolling Stones’ girlfriends like Anita Pallenberg, Bianca Jagger and Marianne Faithfull. I’m really obsessed with them. Back to the ‘60s, I love Brigitte Bardot because she’s so glamorous. I look to all of them on a consistent basis.
I-ELLA: What always catches your eye when shopping?
LAUREN VALENTI: When I’m shopping, I really love statement pieces. I love things that are unique, have great detail and are beautifully made. They make a statement and are still wearable at the same time. I have this Graham and Spencer faux fur trench that my parents gave me, and I always feel like a million dollars when I wear it.
I-ELLA: What’s the most meaningful thing in your closet and why?
LAUREN VALENTI: I have this dress that I wore to prom. It was French Connection, and it was all sequined with a flower design, and it was so beautiful. When I wore it and I felt beautiful in it. I’ll always keep it in my closet, because it’s so beautiful to look at.
I-ELLA: Who is your favorite designer/brand and why?
LAUREN VALENTI: Zac Posen. He’s a designer who puts together glamorous clothes with great craftsmanship. He has really fun shows each season.
I-ELLA: What’s the most important piece of fashion advice you’ve ever been given?
LAUREN VALENTI: My mom always said that things should really be tailored as best as possible, because not only do you look better, and you’ll feel better when you’re wearing it.
I-ELLA: How often do you clean out your closet? Do you have any editing tips for our users?
LAUREN VALENTI: I clean my closet pretty often. I just think that it’s important to always have clothes in your closet that excite you. The fit is so important and that you have to be realistic. If it’s not going to work, it’s best that it’s not in your closet at all.
I-ELLA: Could you share your 3 simple rules to live by.
LAUREN VALENTI: Be passionate. Take risks. Love others.
xx
