The Paris-born, LA-based creative director Jen Azoulay has one of the sharpest eyes in fashion. She launched her career at Elle before working as a stylist, designer, and creative director in LA. In 2016, after a 6-year stint working for Dior in Paris in visual merchandising, she launched Jen Wonders, her fashion blog turned Instagram account which became her full-time passion. And now, with Jen Wonders Studio, her vintage showroom for one-of-a-kind and redesigned pieces.
We checked in with Jen to talk vintage, the importance of perseverance, and her favourite city to shop in.
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Who are the important women or matriarchs in your life?
"I was the only girl in my family, so the most significant feminine influences in my life were my mom and grandmother. My relationships with them are incredibly important to me. As I grew older, I met extraordinary girlfriends who became my rock, like the sisters I never had."
From life and business, what lessons have these women imparted that you keep with you?
"They taught me the importance of perseverance, always pushing myself to achieve great things. They emphasized the value of supporting each other and loving wholeheartedly. Their lives are filled with laughter and hard work, a philosophy I strive to embody in my own life."
You have such a storied career in fashion. What drew you to vintage?
"My journey with vintage fashion began over 20 years ago. As a young person, I sought unique and stylish pieces without the high price tag, often frequenting flea markets and thrift stores. The sight of piles of discarded clothing struck me. About ten years later, as sustainability became a collective concern, I felt uneasy about producing more new items. Instead, I decided to recycle existing beauties, giving them a new life."
"Don’t worry too much about what people think of you. It held me back from doing more when I was younger."
What’s your “holy grail” piece or collection?
"Each piece I create is unique and holds a special place in my heart. When I launched my first brooch collection and it sold out within days, I knew I had found my style. That was an incredibly rewarding moment."
Favourite city to shop/source in?
"Rome!"
What’s the one step in your beauty routine you can’t skip?
"Moisturizing."
What does it mean to you to ‘come home to yourself’?
"It means being in my safe place. There’s no better feeling than coming home."
Jen's Ritual:
