So Style Mafia Is Now Simonett. These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things

January 29, 2019

Photography: Photos belong to Simonett

If you’re the sort who’s always sleuthing for purveyors of trendy-slash-affordable attire, Style Mafia might already be on your radar. I’ve heard it being compared to Zara before, which makes the hairs on the nape of my neck bristle, because in reality, it’s nothing like Zara. Don’t get me wrong. I love Zara. I really do. The brand is just good at what it does—namely, cranking out garments that are just the right balance of stylish and reasonably priced. That said, I’m also very aware of the fact that everybody’s wearing Zara. I can spot Zara merch from a mile away, and I’m pretty sure I’ve honed that worthless skill by shopping there more often than I should. (Hey, you can’t blame the brand for being successful, am I right?)

But ever since I discovered Style Mafia, a Miami-based brand that’s been quietly changing the meaning of fast-fashion, I was hooked. Like, I need-to-own-everything-on-the-site hooked. Like, I-can’t-stop-scrolling-when-I-should-be-enjoying-a-night-out hooked. Of course, if you’re following me on the gram (isn’t that what cool kids call it?) you might already know this. I’ve posted a series of photos proudly donning their outfits, because, you know, I like to give credit where it’s due. The quality of everything I received in the mail was just top-notch. The designs are very inspired and in vogue, chock-full of playful, exaggerated sleeves, riffs on the highly coveted, power-shoulder blazers and over-sized buckles. I mean, five stars all the way.

On Jan. 10, I received an email—one that went out to all newsletter subscribers—that Style Mafia was in the midst of a re-branding effort. Following a weeks-long “archival sale” both online and in-store, Style Mafia assumed the new name, Simonett, after its founder Simonett Pereira. A brand spankin’ new website finally launched today, introducing a slew of fresh designs to the label’s devout followers. So, without further ado, here’s a round-up of my favorite pieces from Simonett.

Solar Dress – Purple | $189

I love the lantern sleeves here. This design element exudes a certain futuristic air. I can picture myself wearing this at Fashion Week. Scratch that, I’d use any excuse to wear this frock—even if I’m jaunting over to my favorite local coffee shop.

Vicenta Dress | $189

There are so many patterns clashing here, and that collision is just so unexpected and beautiful. I’m not sure if I’m brave enough to allow my undergarments to “wohoo!” to passersby, but I can handle the lovely low-cut, open back situation quite well.

Cotedian Jacket | $259

Simonett is a masterclass in the unusual, and this jacket is just a confirmation of the designer’s unique ability to convert something that’s so simple and mundane into a statement piece. Wear this franken-blazer anywhere, and you’ll be tapped on the shoulder and asked about its birthplace one too many times.

Fuega Jacket | $179

From afar, this blazer looks quite normal. (Go ahead. Take a look at the front view). But zero in on the details, and you’ll see some cool structural elements jutting out like folded paper. The color itself is so striking that it alone steals the show.