“I really don’t like to call myself a designer,” said Otilia Mendez, founder of label I Am Zoe. “I think there is so much you have to accomplish before that. I still have a long way to go.”
Since Otilia Mendez was a little girl she always knew she wanted to be in the fashion industry. She became is a FIDM graduate and went on to become a stylist. Her first line I am Zoe was showcased in Fashion Week Los Angeles and Fashion Week San Diego 2014 this year. The designer laugh’s saying, “I always said that my first baby was going to be named Zoe. The name means life, happiness, freedom- that’s what I want my label to be.” Mendez is very excited to present a collection that is all her own, ad last year she co-designed a line with Diestra for SDFW 2013.
Mendez’s line is transitional from day to night, with notable graphic tailoring and touches of sensuality. She draws inspiration from Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen and Ana De La Reguera and wants to dress the young woman that is trendy, fashion forward, sexy and not afraid to mix pieces.
The designer’s short-term goals include hosting a runway show in Mexico City where editorial fashion is up and coming. Embracing her Latina roots, Mendez caters to young and hip Latinos with her designs. Her long-term goal is none other than New York City. Mendez has many other ideas on her brain as well including looking at retailing in Los Angeles and designing pieces for popular online shop, Nasty Gal.
She is in the process of finding new ways to connect with other designers that she would love to collaborate with. Looking for similarly attuned designers in Los Angeles and San Diego, Mendez feels that there would be a greater opportunity for a dressier vibe.
“I’ve gotten a lot of support from people who love fashion,” she said. “I think that’s all you have to do. You just have to love it.”
PHOTO CREDIT: DOUGLAS LAGOS