Noel Jean is a New York based fashion designer, I had the pleasure of meeting Noel when I was in New York last week. Noel’s style is creative and very inspiring. I was thrilled to get the chance to visit with her and talk about her upcoming line for Fall 2011, what inspires her and how her interest in fashion sparked. Noel’s clothes have been worn by the likes of Kim Kardashian and E!’s Catt Saddler.

Kim Kardashian in NOEL JEAN.

E!’s Catt Saddler in NOEL JEAN.

MollieinSeattle

If you had to describe your label in four words what would they be?

Noel Jean
I would discribe my label in four words as sophisticated, mysterious, chic, and distinctive.

MollieinSeattle
When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer?

Noel Jean
As a young girl, I always loved playing dress up, dressing in costumes, singing, dancing, etc. My grandmother and mother are artists (painters, singer/musicians) and growing up I really was able to explore my artistic ability being surrounded by art and music. In high school people started taking notice of what I wore, and I was voted best dressed. It was about that time that I really started thinking about a career in fashion. A few fashion colleges visited my high school campus and I began toying with the idea of studying fashion. I love to know the origin of why and how things are made up, so designing was something that truly fascinated me. That is how I decided on focusing on design. I love to create and express myself, and most of us do it daily with our clothes. I am fortunate to have found a career that continues to inspire me. I am a student everyday.

MollieinSeattle
What was the first article of clothing you ever designed?

Noel Jean
One of the first articles of clothing I designed, was a drapy cowl neck jersey tank top with contrast stitching. It was long and I it wore with a belt. I remember someone paying me a compliment on it, and I was both shy and excited about it and didn’t know what to say.

MollieinSeattle
What is your favorite fashion trend for 2011?

Noel Jean
I am loving bold prints for 2011, definitely the longer hemlines (knee-length to maxi) in dresses and skirts, and menswear.

MollieinSeattle
If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring designers what would it be?

Noel Jean
For aspiring designers, one piece of advice I have is to really follow your passion with all of your heart and to do the best you can. The hardest part is just putting yourself out there and trying, but if you are truly passionate about what you are doing people will take notice.

Be sure to follow Noel’s blog, Twitter and Facebook for all the latest on her chic line!