Monot F/W 22 | Courtesy of PURPLE PR
What is it about Mônot that has led every major model and top actress in need of black-tie to take notice? Certainly, the bold designs of Eli Mizrahi have been the main attraction — his sexy cutouts balanced with a subdued palette of black, white, and pops of red have been making waves since Mizrahi’s start back in 2019. Whether it’s been viral wedding moments from Kendall Jenner or dressing celebrities like Academy Award-winner Ariana DeBose, Halle Berry, Lizzo and Kerry Washington, the label focused on jet-setting women in need of formalwear has been pushing an agenda of powerful femininity. The Lebanese designer leaves a significant impression in his casting, whether on the Paris Fashion Week runways or his campaigns with a lineup of icons like Kate Moss, Alek Wek, Sasha Pivovarova, Amber Valletta, Omahyra Mota, Jourdan Dunn, and Xiao Wen Ju. With sensual silhouettes like these, the utmost confidence is needed, so we briefly spoke to Mizrahi about his process, what he looks for in a muse and his latest inspirations.
In the show notes it is mentioned that the collection was created between New York, Paris, and Beirut and inspired by Demi Moore in Indecent Proposal – which details in the collection embody these elements?
The cutout halter neck gown that Demi wears in the movie is one of the iconic scenes for me. The way the dress fits her feline form in a daring yet sophisticated way was particularly interesting to me. In the new A/W 22 collection, there are several cutout gowns that perfectly toe the line of occasion wear that is tight and flowy at the same time.
How did you first start in fashion and did you always want to be a designer?
As a kid, I always wanted to be a pilot, I took flying lessons as a child and the beauty of the skies captivated me. As I grew up, I realized my mental orientation skewed to be very business-minded and I started consulting for various luxury brands. Through this work, I grew to appreciate the many aspects of building and owning a fashion label – this led me to start Mônot.
What is your day-to-day process leading up to finalizing a collection? Is it a set routine or is it ever-evolving?
I can say I do not sleep and that is usually where my best ideas are developed; this includes mood boards, sketching, sample making, fittings, editing, and adding in extra looks. Casting also plays a huge part in finalizing the collection, with which I am very involved. The Mônot woman who will be wearing the collection is very important to me, and I’m particular in choosing talent. After casting, there are hair and make-up trials to perfect, and then before you know it, it is showtime.
What’s your first/earliest memory of a fashion model? Do any names stand out or were you more inspired by the women around you?
It would be the Kate Moss Supreme Ad!
What challenges have you encountered while starting your business and what do you wish you’d known sooner?
Trusting people in this industry was a challenge for me due to being let down a few times, but you live and you learn. My advice would be to research before ever diving into anything — references are always important and helpful.
Cutouts and monochromatic color are always key moments for you, how do you want to evolve your signatures for Fall 2022?
Cutouts will be incorporated as in each season. However, the collection introduces familiar ensembles and silhouettes – the little black dress, the three-piece suit, modern interpretations of occasion-wear for the feline form, with a contemporary focus on powerful femininity and design-forward interpretations. Tailoring is of particular significance to remain true to the brand’s ethos and DNA.
When it comes to casting, Monot has an appreciation for the top names in the business. What do you look for in a muse – model or otherwise?
I’m always looking for three specific characteristics: someone with a purpose, unusual beauty, and most importantly, their character.
Monot F/W 22 | Courtesy of PURPLE PR
Is making beautiful things enough or must it serve some function?
There are many beautiful things in life, but I believe there should always be a purpose, which makes something even more beautiful.
How did you feel about that Monot x Kendall Jenner wedding reception moment?
The look was sensational on her frame. This look spoke for itself, with it breaking the internet and breaking necks at the same time. The look portrayed confidence and bravery, which are qualities of the Mônot woman, and Kendall showed off those [qualities] perfectly.
What advice would you give new designers looking to follow in your footsteps?
There are many opportunities out there and if something doesn’t work out, don’t ever give up. Hard work is very important and staying true to yourself always wins.
