ELIZABETH LEVENTHAL
GENERAL MERCHANDISING MANAGER OF READY-TO-WEAR AT MODA OPERANDI
What are some of your day-to-day work tasks? No day is the same. I spend time with amazing designers developing their collections and fun collaborations. I also work closely with our internal teams to ensure our brands get the right support they need to create excitement for our customers. What brand are you really looking forward to having on Moda Operandi this season? I’m really looking forward to launching Deitas. The label’s minimalist ethos produces chic, timeless silhouettes that can work on just about anyone. I’m also super excited that Prada has joined Moda Operandi. What do you always pack for fashion month? A classic black blazer, great denim by Frame Denim or Jean Atelier, a simple white blouse and red lipstick. If you had to wear only one designer for the rest of your life, who would it be? This is an impossible question. I’m not one to wear one designer from head to toe, so it would be a mix of The Row, Khaite, Zimmermann, Valentino and Chloé. How do you go about discovering new brands? Keeping your eyes wide open is key, and never being fearful to ask a stranger what he or she has on. It also ranges from traditional research of magazines and publications such as WWD and Vogue to even Instagram. If you could only buy one item for the season, what would it be? It’s between a Loewe shearling coat and a Magnetic Midnight bag, which are beautiful bags handmade in Colombia from iraca palm. What’s your go-to outfit if you’re in a rush in the morning? A jumpsuit—one and done. Easiest way to look chic when you’re rushing out the door, especially after getting two kids ready for the day. Secret beauty hack? Coconut oil—it’s a body moisturiser, highlighter for your cheeks, make-up remover and lip gloss all in one. Signature scent? Rose 31 by Le Labo. If you could raid one person’s wardrobe, whose would it be? I would go to Diana Vreeland’s. Everything she wore was timeless and elegant. She was a real risk taker when it came to patterns. Your most prized fashion possession? My mother’s vintage fur coat, which has removable sleeves.