Style Crush: Janet Mandell

It’s probably safe to say that Janet Mandell is the girl who has everything: A lovely family, a beautiful home, great career as a businesswoman and owner of Mia Bossi, the successful fashion blog Fashion-a-Holic, and a very, very, very enviable closet that is packed with Chanel, Lanvin, Dolce & Gabbana, McQueen and every other designer item you and I both want to own. It’s really hard not to style crush on Ms. Mandell, not only because of her impeccable style but also because of her friendly demeanor and bubbly personality. So read on and find out what makes this awesome fashionista tick.

FashionFiles: Tell us how did your fashion career start? 

My love for fashion started from my mother. I fell in love with my mothers closet from an early age. I grew up learning and seeing first-hand what couture was. This is what led to my fashion career. I first started as a young  manager of a clothing store, which then eventually led to me documenting what I was wearing on a daily basis. This slowly turned into what is now Fashionaholic. Although, I would have liked to go to fashion school or university, that was not an option when it came to my parents. Education was a MUST and that meant I was going to get a strict education studying business.

coat – Celine | bag – Chanel | shoes – Manolo Blahnik | jeans – Zara | sunnies – Tom Ford

FF: Why did you choose to become a fashion blogger? 

For me it was obvious – I love fashion! I love the textures, silhouettes and colors. One day I would like to share these pictures and experiences with my daughter. I want her to learn how she can express herself through clothing.

FF: What inspired you to become a designer? 

I am handbag designer by nature. I love exploring the different types of materials and fabrics. Venturing into a brand was an exciting challenge for me to take on.

FF: Do you have any advice for girls who want to start their own fashion blog? 

Know your niche, your style and your business plan from the beginning and stick to it. Never give up and keep pushing through the ups and downs of this crazy adventure.

FF: Give us a glimpse inside your day – from the moment you wake up till night. 

It starts first with getting my kids up and ready for school. After we go through the process of dress, eating and out the door I drop them off and I am on my way to the gym. After that, I usually stop into my Mia Bossi office to check on everything, or I go out shooting for the blog. Most days are filled with work meetings or an event I have to attend. Sooner than I know it, it is time to go get my children from school. Wish I had more hours in the day to check everything off my to-do list. Emails are always checked and replied to on the road, mainly while waiting for my Starbucks, or while I am trying to get a little me time in like getting my manicure and pedicure.

FF: What is the best fashion party you ever went to? 

I would say the Dolce & Gabbana opening party on Oak Street was truly an event to remember. So many Chicago fashionistas were there, and the clothing was gorgeous. They really outdid themselves with the decor, small bits and attendees.

FF: We’ve been style-crushing on you for a while, how would you describe your personal style? 

I try to keep my look down edgy and eclectic.

jeans РZara | shirt РZara | shoes РCasade | bags РChlo̩

FF: What are your style words to live by? 

If the clothing you are rocking looks amazing on you, you feel great and you know it – who cares what others think! This is your time to have your confidence shine through!

FF: Who are your style icons? 

Anna Dello Russo, Erica Pelosini of Up Close and Stylish. 

FF: Tell us something about yourself that we might not expect? 

I am deathly afraid of rats! Everything about them grosses me out – ick!

FF: Your closet is on fire! What three items do you save from the flames? 

I would save my Chanel Lego Bag, my furs and my white Burberry Spike jacket. [ Editor’s Note: Can you blame her? See below]

FF: Whose wardrobe would you swap with in a heartbeat and why?

Erica Pelosini of Up Close And Stylish and/or Chiara Ferragni from the Blonde Salad. Have you seen their Instagram accounts? They have some fierce fashion items.

FF: What is the best piece of shopping advice you have gotten? 

Trust your fashion instinct! Do not think twice if it is something you really want or know you show confidence in.

FF: What is your worst shopping habit? 

It is hard for me to admit, but my computer and iPhone. I like to escape and unwind with a little online, which has now turned into my shopping habit.

FF: Where do you shop?

I cannot get enough of The Real Real, Fashionphile, Net-a-Porter and Zara.

FF: What is your favorite purchase?

My favorite purchase to date would by my Hermes Kelly bag

FF: What’s your secret cheapie?

CHOiES

FF: Which trend(s) do you really like, and which would you never be caught dead trying?

I LOVE a good, comfy pair of denim with a white cotton tee, but I would never wear flats.

FF: Who is your favorite up and coming designer?

Self Portrait and Sophia Webster

FF: What is your favorite stiletto?

Christian Louboutin.