On a recent trip to the French capital, we hung out with Barbara Malewicz, a Paris based stylist, freelance journalist and blogger, previously editor at WAD magazine.
Mixing streetwear styling, chokers, bright colours and a blunt bob, she seemed like the perfect match to style our new capsule collection, shot on the colourful streets of Paris's Canal Saint Martin. We fired some questions at Barbara to get to know her a little better.
All photography by Valentin Fabre.
We love your nickname "Malebitch" and blog title (ilovemalebitch.com) where did this first come from and what's the concept behind it?
Thanks! At the very beginning it all comes from a pun on my family name (Malewicz, it's Polish, and pronounced (Mal-vitch). My friends at uni used to call me Malebitch... Guess why! Today it suits me more than ever, as it's all about fierce and strong women, the ones who dress the way they want, the ones who fight for their rights and freedom, for abortion. "Bitch" is a strong word, but not an insult to me, it brings it back to the positive, powerful nature of women.
What do you love the most about your job?
I love that I always meet new people. This might sound cliche, but it's truly the most beautiful aspect of it, I've met lots of people all around the world and some of them have become real friends. I would also say I get to travel a lot and this is pretty enriching and exciting.
How did you get in to journalism and styling? What tips/advice do you have for young people wanting to get into the industry?
I studied fashion design, I really wanted to become a designer at first. Then I've worked as an intern for many different companies, starting from jewellery brands to clothing, and then press. Best tip is to be a workaholic. Don't be afraid to work during holidays and weekends, don't be reluctant at working for free at the beginning, young people must use all of their energy to do their best and make some space for them to evolve. This is a really harsh industry, never give up but be ready to work and prove your worth :)
How would you describe your style?
If I had to put it into words, I'd say it's a mix between lots of 90s references, between girly & boyish, between sportswear and high fashion. Most of all : Less is bore.
Who inspires you? Who are you always stalking on Instagram?
No doubt here, @sitabellan is my queen of all times.
Do you think living in Paris has influenced your style at all?
I've lived in London before, when I was an intern, and I think this has definitely influenced me a lot more. I love Paris as a city, it's beautiful and it's home now. But style wise, it isn't really my inspiration :) Most people are too conventional and classy here. Yet, I'd say living in a big city is always more liberating than living in a small town, of course.
What are your favourite spots for shopping, eating and shooting in Paris?
Shopping / vintage shops before anything else, I'm always looking for new treasures at Episode or Kiloshop. Eating / Tien Hiang, a surprising Asian vegan place, and Pancake Sisters - do I need to explain what you can eat there? Shooting / I like to shoot down the streets of my hood more and more. The most unexpected places are always the best. I recently shot in front of some wacky tribal hairdresser.
You're always travelling the world for work. If you weren't based in Paris, where would be your dream place to live?
The absolute dreamy place to live would be Cape Town, there's a pretty cool cultural scene growing up there, people are really friendly, the landscapes are incredible and the weather..
What 3 things would you take to a desert island?
Sunnies, an ice cream jar and a handsome guy.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Avocado mixed with cheese and lemon, spread on toasts.
What's the best advice you've ever been given?
If people are mean to you, don't make it a personal matter, it's most of the time nothing personal against you, but deeper problems of their own.
What was the last lie you told?
I'm not a liar (:
What always cheers you up if you're having a shitty day?
Some good Azaelia Banks track.
What projects are you excited to be working on this Summer?
I've just relaunched my website so I can't wait to work on all these new subjects I have in mind and share them!
What's your favourite piece from our new capsule collection? (we love you in the Silver jacket!)
And it's clearly that one piece! The silver jacket with pink faux fur collar <3
