Stylish Designer Interview: Jen Mascali

My friend Shae over at Bollare PR is always keeping me in the loop with the most current things happening in the industry, and when he asked me if I wanted to interview the amazing handbag designer Jen Mascali, I didn't even think twice before I said yes! Jen is an incredible handbag designer who makes one of a kind handcrafted pieces that are to DIE FOR! Check out my interview with her below!

What would be your advice to aspiring designers?

Don’t lose your vision. You will encounter opinions on both the production and sales end, listen to them, but be remain confident in your idea. And have patience! 

Do you have any particular motto/advice you live by?

Let the Beauty of what you love, be what you do. Impossible is not a concrete fact, it’s just an opinion…

Where do you see the brand in the future; Say... 5 years from now?

In 5 years, I see the Jen Mascali brand fully developed and recognized on a global level. The go to brand for “rich- hippie” style. 

What originally made you want to move to Florence and why?

I moved to Florence because it is a center for the leather goods industry, from the finest tanneries to the master craftsman. Also, I fell in love with everything about this place! One of the main goals I intend to establish with my brand is to preserve the beauty and integrity of the “Made in Italy” label. The quality and techniques are simply superior and are truly becoming a lost art in the world. It is my hope to maintain and promote these Italian artisans through my work. I am fortunate enough to have been able to combine my work with living in the most beautiful city in the world. The landscape, architecture and warmth of the people, make living here a fairytale every day. The culture exudes a freedom of expression, helping me to achieve greater creativity and joy in my life. Living here just feels right. 

What are the five things you can’t live without?

I simply can NOT live without: 

Dreaming

Traveling to new places, there is no greater source for learning and inspiration. 

Love

My bangle bracelets

And of course a Jen Mascali bag, at the moment, my CJ

Through all of your adventures as a designer, what experience do you treasure most and why? 

It’s hard to say, obviously anytime you see your dreams and ideas come to fruition is a breathtaking experience. I would have to say I treasure the experience of being lucky enough to do the work I love everyday, surrounded by talented and most importantly creative people. What do you feel most stylish in?I feel most stylish in a pair of well fit jeans and heels as high as possible! Also a tan helps :-)

You can check out Jen's website, Twitter page, and Facebook page!

So until next time... Live Stylishly