In anticipation of Eco-Ganik's October 2008 - Spring Season 2009- show at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in Los Angeles, I had the pleasure of interviewing designer, Hoda Mallone about her line and what it is like to be a designer for an eco friendly line.
Eco-Ganik has been worn by celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Paris Hilton, Hilary Duff, Britney Spears, Ashlee Simpson, Gwen Stefani, Lindsay Lohan, Jessica Alba, Kristen Dunst, Victoria Beckham, Nicole Richie, Rihanna, Kristen Bell, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Halle Berry, and Cameron Diaz.
Eco-Ganik is the line designed with both fashion and eco-conscious living in mind. Never before has a line been designed with such innovative designer looks and while keeping the environment in mind.
Here is something from Eco-Ganik's Company Bio:
The Ecoganik Mission
The Green movement calls for the preservation of nature; chemical and toxic free agricultural activities, food processing and manufacturing procedure. Today's consumers are increasingly aware of the damaging effects of pollutants, insecticides, pesticides and chemicals, and are taking an active role to select and purchase eco-friendly, biodegradable and organic products ranging from household, food, health products to clothing and accessories.
Ecoganik recognizes this consumer need to balance quality and eco-conscious living. The company designs and manufactures stylish fashion wear using only certified organic or eco-friendly fabrics. The manufacturing detail and processing all conform to the international organic certification standard.
While our customers enjoy the comfort, relaxing personal styling, and the superior quality of our organic fashion line, Ecoganik is committed to promote the alternative cropping of organic, pesticide free and low impact dye fiber that in turn saves the planet from further contamination and degradation.
Enjoy the interview: (See information about where to buy Eco-Ganik at the bottom of this article.)
1a.) Who are the designers behind Eco- Ganik?
Designer: Hoda Mallone
Hometown: Bellflower, CA
Favorite color: Green
Relationship Status: Married
1b.) How did you decide to start Eco-Ganik? Did you feel there was a need in the marketplace for this type of clothing?
Eco-Ganik saw a need for an eco-friendly line and jumped on it 5 years ago. Although we were ahead of our time, we knew this was the direction the market and the world would eventually be going. I was brought on to give the line a contemporary feeling with young, fresh silhouettes and beautiful colors.
2.) Where did you work and go to design school before Eco-Ganik?
My first, full-time job in the fashion industry was for a cashmere sweater company called, Cris. Its there that I got my start getting my hands into every part of the manufacturing process. From there I went to Joie. I worked as the Design Dept. Manager. I worked very closely with the designers on each season and merchandised the line. I also handled all the look book shoots. It was an extremely creative position and I worked with some amazing people that are very talented and inspiring. After Joie, I started to try different things in the fashion industry, trying to find my place. I worked at a few different companies, then finally, started free-lance designing. I did that for a few months, then started here at Eco-Ganik.
3.) What is your daily inspiration?
I am inspired by everything. I am influenced and inspired by cultures and places different cities and countries. I feel you can find insight if you look beyond your doorstep.
Music is also a huge inspiration. Sometimes a song can inspire an entire collection. I can hear a great song and see the girl who would listen to this music, and picture her whole look, at all occasions! I love when that happens.
4.) Where do you shop? Who are your favorite designers?
My favorite designers are Derek Lam, Gucci, Chanel, Chloe, and Blumarine. I also LOVE vintage! I shop at Flea Markets and Thrift stores a lot. I also love Shopbop.com, Barneys Co-Op, Fred Segal, Vie Los Angeles (3rd St.), and Tobi.com.
5.) Who are your celebrity inspirations when dressing your models?
I am inspired by Rachel Zoe due to her amazing sense of style and influence on the fashion market. I am also inspired by Rachel Bilson because she is right on mark when it comes to fashion. And always, Sarah Jessica Parker is the queen of street chic. I love her.
6.) When did you know you wanted to start an Eco friendly line? How long has Eco- Ganik been around?
Eco-Ganik began 5 years ago(see company bio)
7.) What is the best part of your day?
I love when I first get to work. Because every day is something different, some problem to solve or a great idea comes up -- its the thrill of the unexpected. If I have to choose a moment, I love when I see a new garment for the first time! Its truly the best part of the job. Seeing what you work so hard on, come to life. You cant beat it.
8.) What is the worse part of your day?
The worst part is running out of time. Anyone in the fashion industry will tell you, youre always up against the clock! Sometimes it gets the better of you.
9.) Do you think Eco clothing is more popular in big cities or is it gaining popularity all over the country?
Absolutely its more popular in the bigger cities, especially on the coasts. But I just think that is the case right now. As people are gaining knowledge about the movement, its gaining popularity. Soon it will be a standard of living, not just choice.
10.) IF I were to buy 2 pieces from your collection- which 2 pieces should I buy for Fall and which 2 pieces should I buy for Spring?
For fall, any of the jackets or coats are the way to go! We always make innovative and fashion forward jackets and coats out of comfy fabrics like organic French Terry or organic Fleece.
For Spring/Summer, my two favorite pieces are the high-waisted puff skirt in organic cotton voile and the pleated wide leg pant in organic cotton jersey. I love those two pieces and they could easily fit into any wardrobe! I think its a triumph when you can look amazing and be comfortable!
11.) What were your inspirations behind the Spring collection? Behind the Fall collection? (attach photos if possible)
Although Eco-Ganik began 5 years ago, I have been brought on to re-vamp the line and make it into a full collection. We are a true contemporary line and want to express that. The show is called Fresh Start and all the pieces go together, its a wardrobe. I wanted to have pieces that you can dress up and dress down. I wanted to give women a variety of options for any occasion possible. This collection is just the first step into the fashion world. We like to think we embody street chic mixed with comfy glamour for any woman.
My direction for fall 09 is all about New York. I love that city. Its electric and the people dress so distinctively. I like the structure of New York. Fashion is a culture there and it makes you want to dress like youre part of it.
12.) Is there anything you dislike about what you do?
I love fashion. In a perfect world, Id love if everyone had an appreciation and excitement for fashion as much as I did. It can change your life! I like to think that what you put on your body is an expression of you. Its a way to SEE who you are, sometimes its important to see that not just know it.
13.) Do you like feedback from the people who wear your clothes? Do you often hear the feedback?
So far, so good! Were getting an amazing response to the first collection.
14.) Do you bring your lunch to work daily? What do you like to eat for lunch? Your favorite meal?
I did bring my lunch. I brought rosemary chicken and white bean soup. I love soup. Its a little strange, but I think its so comforting.
15.) Do you have a pet? A plant? What else do you do in your life to make sure everything is ECO Friendly?
I dont have a pet but I have a lot of plants! I think its important to bring the outside into your home. I have a huge green plant; its about 8 ft high, in my bedroom. His name is Max. My husband and I have had him for years, hes a part of the family! I dont know what kind of plant he is, but I love seeing him in my place of serenity. Hes calming.
As far as my eco-friendly life, I recycle, I use totes when I grocery shop, I try to use reusable containers, I try to only buy organic vegetables, and Im buying only earth-friendly cleaning products. I do what I can and am trying to do more and more.
Thanks for taking the time with me Hoda. I cannot wait to see your line this week at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.
Here are some great pieces from Eco-Ganik's 2008 Fall Season: Click the photos below to get a closer look for all the jackets, dresses, pants, tops, and jumpsuits available for purchase now.
Click our banner here to get $10 off your order when you shop Eco-Ganik at Couture Candy.
