Sisters Mitra and Mina (MiMi) started MiMi + You in 2005. Mitra Mortazavi based in Toronto is the artist behind these beautiful handcrafted one-of-a-kind necklaces. Sister Mina Mortazavi is head of Sales and Marketing and is based in Los Angeles. The designs are inspired by their friends and community; the YOU part of the brand name. Each piece is as unique as the women who wear them: moms, teachers, entrepreneurs, business executives, activists, and actors. No matter what your style there is a Mimi & You necklace that was made just for you.
I spoke with Mitra recently to find out more about the style maven herself. I asked what are your secrets to authentic style?
Mitra: My most important secret is to Infuse my personality and creativity in what I wear, other secrets to style is investing in the timeless classic pieces and punching it up each season with what’s hot. Timeless pieces inspired by the masters (Coco Chanel, Dior, Calvin Klein) , classic accessories: like pearls, statement necklaces (it changes any outfit), the timeless black handbag.
Don’t fall for trends but compliment your wardrobe and show your personality and creativity with a few of each season’s must haves, and if you want to stay ahead of the trend, watch what is going on the streets (street fashion is one of the indicators to runway fashion).
What are some of your newest obsessions?
Mitra:
- Companies giving back to the community ( Social Entrepreneurs), I’m making a conscious decision to buy goods or services from companies who give back to the community through volunteering, charitable work and social sustainability and who are local.
- Statement Necklaces (it changes any old outfit to new)
- Hot Chocolate with espresso
- Fuchsia
Speaking of doing good, Mimi & You founded “Celebrate Courage” where they celebrate the courage of women who walk away from violence. Mimi & You is inspired by the women at women’s shelters and want to support their journey and celebrate their courage.
MiMi + You Celebrate Courage facilitates necklace making workshops at women’s shelters because even in the midst of struggle, time spent creating beauty – beauty that has meaning and purpose – is time spent healing.
Want to get involved? On Wednesday November 11, 2009 we are holding a Creative Workshop
where you can make a necklace for this worthwhile cause. The necklaces made at the workshop will be sold on MiMi + You website and the proceeds are donated to Shelternet.ca; an online resource for Canadian women who have experienced abuse.
Workshop participation fee is only $20 with proceeds going to Celebrate Courage program, facilitating necklace making workshops at women’s shelters.
Space is limited; so RSVP soon; mitra@mimiandu.com
Look Beautiful & Give Back
