LA VIE C’EST YE YE FOR THIS DESIGNER AND BLOG DARLING
Story by Odessa Paloma Parker
Photos provided by Isabelle Hayes
Isabelle Hayes is a captivating figure; with all the beauty of Anna Karina and the charm of a swinging ’60s teenager, her infectious love of fashion – particularly of the vintage variety – has garnered her blog, La Vie C’est YeYe, much attention. With a successful Etsy vintage business under her belt and after recently finishing her studies in fashion design, Hayes has branched out her online shop stock to create chic detachable collars that will no doubt adorn the most fashion-savvy necklines this spring!
What’s your earliest fashion memory?
I would have to say it goes back to when I was a very young child. I would go through my mother’s closet and come up with crazy outfits and then sometimes my mother would take pictures of me in them. I started to draw at a very early age and I would always draw princesses in long dresses, and dream of someday having the most beautiful dresses in the world. I was a pretty creative child.
What influences your style?
My style in usually influenced by the weather at first, then I get inspirations from various style blogs. I usually work around one piece that I really like in my wardrobe and go from there. Color is also a big influence, I am not a huge fan of dressing in all black like a lot of the Montréal population.
How long have you been wearing vintage? Why did you start wearing vintage?
I have been wearing vintage clothing since my teens. I was introduced to vintage again in my early 20s when I moved to Phoenix. I worked as a buyer for Buffalo Exchange for less then a year and then opened my own vintage shop down the street from them. I met so many people that knew so much about vintage that I learned so fast how to buy, sell and collect vintage.
Tell me about your vintage business, and why you’re passionate about it.
I’ve always had a fascination with history. I always wonder who wore it and to what or where? I love the thrill of finding something one of a kind. My favourite pieces to find are the hand-made ones, I love looking at how they paid close attention to details and I get ideas for my own creations that way. I don’t think I will ever stop going out and finding these lovely gems.
Now you’re making collars – what’s next for you in terms of fashion design?
I started off the YeYe! line with an accessory since I am still getting funds together for my first mini collection [to launch] hopefully this summer. I call it “Electric Lady”, a mini collection of vintage-inspired dresses, blouses and skirts, simple cuts with pretty feminine details. Right now I am still at the sketching process, getting ideas here and there; shopping for vintage clothing really inspires me. I plan to slowly expand my Etsy vintage shop into an original creations shop, and still keep the vintage that will always keep a little place in my heart.
How did you get the idea for the collars?
I was inspired by the Miu Miu collection from last year. I loved the idea of wearing them with extravagant dresses. I had a vintage one in my personal collection, it looks nothing like the ones from Miu Miu – a flat satin Peter Pan collar with beading. I liked that it had a special touch with the satin and the beading, and then I put my thinking cap on. Then I went fabric shopping and found this pretty lace. I then when looking for the perfect fabric to underlay it with and found some beautiful cotton sateen. It was not easy to combine the two fabrics and sew them, but I have it down to a science now.
How do you feel Etsy and blogging has changed the way independent designers and merchants attract clientele?
I think the internet is wonderful for new designers, I have seen a few people from the old generation trying to fight to keep their business going and it breaks my heart. Even selling at local craft fairs in Montréal can be a challenge. The internet gives sellers a bigger store window on the world. Blogging is great for getting feedback from your customers, and gives them ideas on how to wear your creations. I think it is the next big thing in retail.
Who are your style icons and why?
This is a hard question to answer as for I look up to so many sweet vintage ladies for inspiration. My top three would be Mary Quant for inventing the mini skirt, Jane Birkin because she is beautiful without trying, and Peggy Moffit because she just blows my mind.
Are there any trends or styles you just won’t wear?
I am not into the Goth trend – studs and black just really depresses me.
What are some of your favourite purchases from this year, or ever?
This year I found many lovely vintage items My favourite so far is this blue, black and silver Lurex dress I found for $7.99; it is a midi-length dress with a turtleneck. The pattern of the dress is to die for, the skirt is cut in the bias with gores [made] of black and silver triangles. I will never let it go.
Are there any style choices you’ve made that you regret – you look back and think “What was I thinking?”
I don’t regret anything when it comes to fashion. I believe that you should try something at least once in your life and if it did not work out, move on the next thing.
Where do you shop in Montréal?
Mostly in thrift stores all around the city. I go downtown for basics, and I shop at local vintage stores but very rarely.
Why is fashion important?
Because it is what people look at first no matter what excuse they may have, it is what makes you who you are.
What’s one piece of style advice you would give someone?
Don’t be afraid of colour, mix it , play with it, wear it.
