It's no secret that fashion and design are intrinsically linked. Their relationship is one that continues to grow and evolve with every new season and trend; the pair leveraging off one another for inspiration and guidance. For some creatives, like Marieke Meulendijks – the founder of Amsterdam-based design studio, Les Coyotes de Paris – this relationship has defined their signature style in both their personal, and professional life.
One of the most prominent ready-to-wear brands of the minute, Meulendijks certainly understands the importance of curating a timeless wardrobe. Below, we chat with her on her personal style, her connection to art and why the kitchen is the most important room in her home.
How did the connection between photography, art, architecture and people inspire the inception of Les Coyotes de Paris?
For me all is connected. The way we live, what we eat, how we dress, how we get inspired. Which, is all linked through people and staying connected with them. For me design is how I look at life.
What are three words that describe your wardrobe and why?
Re-invented, edgy and timeless. My collections are defined by signature handwriting and attention to detail and quality. I seek for a more purposeful approach to everyday dressing, with an emphasis on tailoring and an eclectic use of fabrics. Each collection is characterised by re-invented classic shapes, twisted into modern silhouettes. These are my foundations of a personal, purposeful wardrobe that are anything but disposable.
How does your personal style translate into Les Coyotes de Paris?
For me it could not be different. What I like personally is echoed in every design for Les Coyotes. So it’s a very personal story, in a way my own DNA.
Can you tell me about the ‘lightbulb’ moment that kickstarted your brand?
As my formal contract did not allow me to design for women and men for a couple of years, I decided to challenge myself and create collections for girls 8-18 years old, as I felt there was a gap in the market for a brand focussing on young girls of this age group. They have such a strong voice, awareness and ideas and I felt encouraged and challenged to create a world for them.
Les Coyotes de Paris blends the worlds of fashion and art together seamlessly. How does your style translate into the interior choices in your home?
I think my taste and the choices I make for our home are almost the same for work. For instance, I buy strong vintage pieces and I use natural materials for the home. I do the same when designing our collections, I aim to incorporate natural fabrics as much as possible and we are inspired by sourced unique vintage pieces. Now, we also use my personal vintage furniture and objects as props in our campaigns and lookbooks, so in a way, it is all beautifully connected.
What is the most important room in the home and why?
Definitely our kitchen, the heart of the house, where we cook, eat, talk and play with our kids.
Where do you see the future of Les Coyotes de Paris?
We have big plans for the future. During the Covid period, we worked on a new strategy for the next 5 years. The past couple of months have been challenging for all of us, but I felt encouraged to think of new possibilities and I re-structured my way of working and thinking. This new awareness and view on life and work was really positive, everything paused for a moment and that’s really what I needed to be able to come up with a new and fresh approach for the future.
What is the most memorable style advice you’ve ever been given?
An easy one; when you feel confident in yourself, your personality and style will show. Working on personal growth is most important I think… dressing and self-care can definitely change the way you feel about yourself and the way people look at you.
You can explore the latest Les Coyotes de Paris collection, here.
