Monica Ivena shares about her business and ultimate goals in fashion industry
Image by Tatler Indonesia
The young and ambitious Monica Ivena had an early start in the fashion industry from the tender age of five by creating pieces for her dolls. After starting out of her garage nine years ago, she had gained recognition from local clients and caught the attention of The Clique, a Hong Kongbased international management who takes her talented hand and soul to dress A-list Hollywood stars from Khloe Kardashian in December 2018 during a Christmas celebration, to Taylor Swift in a bubbly pink dress for her “Me” music video, and even a feature on the 20th Season America’s Next Top Model.
I want to open Monica Ivena stores all around the world. This is my ultimate goal, which has been delayed due to the global Covid-19 pandemic with all of us now staying home. This is not an easy time for many industries especially since my main business is designing wedding and evening gowns that requires interacting and meeting clients with lots of personal contact to create a one-off experience. Thanks to technology, I am still able to liaise with my clients to provide a consultation so they’d look their best at future events. Shipping to international clients with specific logistic providers are still running because, after all, fashion is also about versatility and adaptability.
Women are stronger when they are united. When I held my latest fashion show in 2019, The Clique decided on “WOMEN” as the theme to highlight women empowerment. It was such a great experience to have worked alongside inspiring women from all around the world that I had goosebumps all night long. It showed me how so many women in the fashion industry are working extra hard by giving their best at work while juggling time at home as a mother.
As a mother, the best legacy we can give to our children is our life story. You have to live to the fullest and finish it well, ladies. It is important to balance time between work and family, and planning in advance is crucial to ensure that things run smoothly. Go through every day’s detail with your partner especially if you are like myself, who was married at a young age and is running my own business. Moreover, as a mom, be the example to your children on choosing the right path and doing the good deeds to others.
Never follow any fashion trend blindly. You have to find your own signature although fashion trends would resurface from time to time. We cannot be truly authentic, but we can revive a traditional look or a past trend, and make it fresh and relevant. When I struggle to find ideas, refreshing the mind is important by playing the piano, singing, travelling, or even watching Korean dramas. Never be afraid to be true and to believe in yourself, pursue your dreams, keep on learning, and be your best
