Mariam Nihal Saudi Gazette “A Marcello Conti man is definitely a consistent man, whose style is not swayed by current fashion. He is a modern classic," said Jordanna Yechiel. Exclusively for men, Marcello Conti opens the passage to relaxed days and comfort wear in a journey to a life that is complete and nonchalant. The ex-British Voguette Jordanna Yechiel launched her very own designer label that grips the essentials for casual wear in men's fashion. Talking of a relaxed affair, she manages to effortlessly combine the boho, classic and flashy lifestyle in her ensemble for the charming man. With the summer getting hotter and buzzing beaches destinations in the world, Jordana has her selective range ready for men this holiday season. Marcello Conti is an international trend. Stocking from the Boutique at the Isle de France in St Barth's to Selfridges of London. Approaching the extravagant Saudi shores of fashion, we bring you closer to Jordana Yechiel, creator and owner of Marcello Conti. Talking about eternal style, sophistication and calibre of men, she also talks about Mykonos, Monaco and Hamptons (her categorized men-shorts) in an exclusive interview with Saudi Gazette. SG: How did Marcello Conti happen? Tell us about the brand name and genesis. Yechiel: Marcello Conti was inspired by a great friend of mine who is Italian, strikingly handsome, well mannered, intelligent and worldly. He seems to have it all. But it's his sense of style that struck me the most. The effortless way he puts together an outfit that looks so styled and perfect. He explained to me that a man needs few clothes, as long as they are well-made, well-tailored items. When he finds the correct jean — he buys three. The same principle goes for T-shirts and shirts. All tailored, all perfect. Marcello is an old soul. He is the charismatic and charming boy chic. He oozes style, from his taste in vintage cars to the simple Patek Phillipe watch he wears. SG: Tell us about the fabrics. Are the polos and shorts-is enough? What do you need to complement men's beachwear? Yechiel: I have chosen the highest quality of quick dry nylon fabric for the shorts. The highly technical fabric feels and looks like cotton. As for the tops I wanted to keep them simple. I have chosen four key designs and will probably add two more T-shirts at a further stage. The mercerized cotton I chose is of high quality and comfort. The jersey almost feels like linen and has a sheen that makes it look high-end. I have always been a fan of strong Milanese collars and strong cuffs inspired by my childhood on the Riviera and also the tailor made suits my father used to make on Saville Row. Paired with a classic sandal and classic sunglasses, you are ready to go! SG: Tell us about yourself and how you have changed since British Vogue. Yechiel: As a designer your taste is constantly evolving as you continue to be inspired and influenced by people, art, furniture, colors, etc. I create a flattering shape to suit all men. As for the prints I design, I feel they are current and relevant in any of the decades since the art deco is still present day. SG: Who is a Marcello Conti man and how does he age? Yechiel: A Marcello Conti man either has ‘it' all or not. He can be 16 or 65, its confidence and style which he wears. SG: What makes your desired Marcello Conti look feel ‘timeless'? Yechiel: A classic cut of shorts shouldn't change with time or fashion. I have created a cut that is slim, but not too slim, with a flattering waistband to banish any flaws, hence the different styles. The prints are timeless patterns as it's the colour combinations that I have chosen that determines the edginess of the print. I think it's wonderful for men to express themselves in prints on the beach. Unlike women who have variety, men have simple wardrobes in mostly solid colours. I personally believe swimwear is one place where it is acceptable to wear prints. SG: Why did you choose Harvey Nichols in Dubai? Yechiel: I have chosen Dubai as a strong focus for my sales as I feel it completely embodies the Marcello Conti man. The old world meets the modern man. I love the sophistication of the Dubai man, with the old money, manners and education. With that being said, it mixes well with the modern, sophisticated aesthetic of Dubai as a city which makes a wonderful cocktail. SG: What are the three biggest fashion mistakes men make? How can they be corrected? Yechiel: The biggest mistake men make in fashion is wearing the wrong size. It is so important to find the perfect straight leg, mid rise jean and the length which is altered to perfection. Less is more-buckles, jewelry, flashy belts, too much hair gel, too much aftershave — all have to go in my opinion. Good jeans, a Marcello Conti polo shirt and sunglasses – what else could you need? SG: Tell us, how do you use vintage and the strong retro effect in your detailing? What is its significance to you? Yechiel: I love design in every respect, from cutlery to architecture. One can always see reoccurring patterns, prints and themes. I enjoy seeing how each artist in each generation interprets them and makes them current. SG: Are you planning to do something for women? Yechiel: I have absolutely no interest in women's wear at this time. I see such a niche for the men right now.
