Tell me about your perfume? Is there more coming in the near future?
I wanted to create a perfume that would fit perfectly with both my collections and customers. I was born in Sicily and I wanted to recreate the freshness of a sicilian sunset. The fragrance is based on jasmine blossom, orange blossom, cinnamon and sea breeze. I also designed the perfume bottle itself, adding a sartorial touch to each bottle with a handmade bow.
I am so happy with the eau de perfume, as its been really well received by my customers. I have one customer who bought 15 bottles as they cannot live with out it! I am currently in the process of creating my next perfume…
Does Italy play a major influence in your designs?
I think that being raised in Italy has definitely influenced both my background and aesthetic. I have also travelled a lot and I love seeing what women like to wear in different countries. Many years ago I was a personal shopper and stylist in Singapore – this experience was fantastic, as I learnt about all the various cuts and fabrics that best suit/ accentuate women's curves and different body shapes.
Tell me about your brand Ylenia Mangano…
Ylenia Mangano is a new brand focused on creating special clothes for women. I am passionate about creating elegant garments that enhance the natural beauty and femininity present in every woman.
What inspired your latest collection?
My latest inspiration came from the Italian Dolce Vita and that effortless elegance. With this collection, I wanted to create elegant pieces that can be worn all day long. Women are more active now, their days are full of activities and they often leave their homes early in the morning, returning late at night. Therefore I wanted to create dresses, trousers suits and coats that can be worn from morning, to cocktail hour!
I am also really inspired by colour. Each season I try to focus on key colours as I believe they can be very powerful, giving the wearer extra strength.