The Fashion Spot: What did you want to be when you were a kid?
Myriame Charles: Up to 4 year old, I though that I could be a teacher on Monday, a police officer on Tuesday, a designer on Wednesday, etc. But after 4, it was clear to me that I all I wanted was to be a designer.
tFS: What was your first job?
MC: My first job was at 15. I was a cashier at the movie theater.
tFS: What inspired you to start El-Minooche? Why handbags?
MC: I always wanted to start something of my own at some point and I was already obsessed with bags. I was a sales rep in the fashion industry for years and I was asked frequently by my customers if I knew any new bag collection that I could recommend. After that, it was a no brainer and El-Minooche was born.
tFS: Who is your dream client? And Why?
MC: Solange Knowles. She totally represent the El-Minooche woman.
tFS: What would you be doing if you weren’t designing?
MC: A lawyer…I know, right?
tFS: What or who inspired this collection?
MC: Culture, life, architecture.
tFS: What are you working on for Fall 2012?
MC: Well, that’s a secret, but let’s say that El-Minooche has a lot in store for you guys.
tFS: What¹s the one item of clothing you can¹t live without?
MC: Jeans. I have so many pairs of jeans, it’s crazy! Dressy jeans, casual jeans, you name it!
tFS: What do you want people to know about you?
MC: I love challenge. Obstacles motivate me. When it’s too easy, I get bored, so bring it on!
tFS: Who’s your favorite designer?
MC: Haider Ackermann.
tFS: Who is the El-Minooche woman?
MC: The El-Minooche woman is epicurious and has an insatiable zest for life and a spirit of adventure.
tFS: What does El-Minooche mean? Where did the name come from?
MC: My dad wanted to call me Elminouche and my mom told him, “Over my dead body.” I wanted a name that meant something special, so I decided to call my brand El-Minooche.
