NELE from cc
Aroz Stories introduces you to Nele, founder of Collectors Club, a ready-to-wear brand for women. This collaboration between Aroz and CC invites you to meet this inspiring designer, who is also a super-mom.
28 Apr,2023
AROZ. Can you introduce yourself in a few words?
Nele. Hi there, I'm Nele! I'm 40 years old, a mom of 4 kids, happily married, and living in Kortrijk. I have 15 years of experience in the fashion industry, specifically in retail and multi-brand. I would describe myself as a social person who enjoys the good life and is always curious about new things. Family is very important to me, and I try to approach life with optimism, cheerfulness, and gratitude. I am always driven by a desire to learn and explore.
AROZ. Where does your inspiration for Collectors Club (CC) come from?
N. My inspiration for CC comes from a variety of sources. My team is a huge inspiration for me as we collaborate and share ideas. I love to travel and explore new cultures, which always sparks new ideas. I find inspiration in the people around me, as well as in art, vintage pieces, moodboards, and the atmosphere and vibe of different places.
AROZ. How would you describe the style of Collectors Club and who is it aimed at?
N. The style of CC can be described as contemporary and feminine. The brand offers a "Morning - Noon - Evening" style that can be repeated throughout the day. The collections are aimed at embossy ladies who are active and have a big social life, whether at work or at home with their families. Comfort, quality and fit are key factors in the brand's design process. The pieces are designed to make you feel extraordinary every day. The brand's collections often feature knitwear textures, fluid fabrics, and are inspired by sunshine and happy people. The brand encourages its customers to dare to be loved and dare to be fashion-forward.
AROZ. What is your favorite piece in your wardrobe?
N. The CC oversized Suit : Jayden blazer
AROZ. What is the most daring look you have ever worn?
N. Ohhhh, I've worn a lot of daring looks in my time. I think mix and match can sometimes be really cool, but for me, I tend to put the most daring elements into my accessories. That way, I can still make a statement without going too over-the-top with my clothing.
AROZ. How do you balance running your business and family life with four children ?
N. ‘Running’ as you mention but surrounded by the best help at home and focussing on the ‘quality’ time and not the ‘quantity’ time.
AROZ. What is the funniest moment you have had with your children related to fashion?
N. That's a tough one, let me think... I remember during a photoshoot at our home, my boys were so fascinated by the beauty of the mannequin that they started showing off and trying to impress her. It was quite hilarious to watch! And of course, there was our Aroz shoot, which was such a special and heartwarming moment, surrounded by my four little gems.
AROZ. If you could dress up any person (real or fictional), who would it be and which piece from the Collectors Club collection would you put on them?
N. I would love to see our most beautiful smiling Julia Roberts in the perfect suit of CC, wauw!!!
AROZ. Tell us about the jewelry created in collaboration with Aroz Jewelry.
N. The collaboration with Aroz Jewelry was such a fun and exciting project. As someone who is a big fan of accessories, I was thrilled to be able to explore the world of jewelry design. I truly believe that a complete look is not just about the clothes you wear, but also about the shoes and the jewelry that you pair them with.
AROZ. What does jewelry, in general, represent to you?
N. Jewelry represents glamour, personality, attention to detail, sparkle, maturity, and more to me.
Aroz. What is your favorite piece at AROZ?
N. The CC ear cuff from our collaboration of course!
Aroz. What are the pieces of jewelry that you never take off?
N. My little piercing and my wedding ring!
Aroz. What is your mantra? The phrase or word you would like to engrave on one of our medallions?
N. YOLO - you only live once so take every day with a smile and a challenge or a big souvenir!
Aroz. Finally, can you define AROZ in 3 words?
N. Sisterlove, Gracefulness, Dynamic