(L-R) Marjan and Maryam Malakpour
As featured in MOJEH Issue 25, we bring you a conversation between sisters, rock ‘n’ roll stylists and NewbarK designers, Maryam and Marjan Malakpour. Find out about their stylish lives, favourite things and treasured memories.
By Natalie Trevis
What was the defining moment for you when you knew your career would be in fashion?
Maryam: By the age of 10 I had a huge interest in fashion and photography. I used to make scrapbooks out of magazine tears; editorial and advertising, pretty much what we now call a moodboard! The most memorable and iconic images were the Brooke Shields ad campaign for Calvin Klein in 1980 – I remember wanting to dress and look like the ad, hair, jeans, top and make up! And the Gianni Versace campaigns shot by Avedon.
Who was the most fashionable person in your life growing up?
Marjan: Our mom was pretty amazing.
Who has been your most consistent inspiration in life?
Maryam: Hard to say only one person, but for sure our grandmother and for the most part our lifestyle in pre-revolution Iran; elegant women and Queen Farah Diba of Iran. Today it is my daughter Sophie who is the biggest inspiration.
What three items should an aspiring stylist have in her wardrobe?
Marjan: Classic black Saint Laurent jacket, NewbarK Melanie loafers, and a great fitting pair of jeans.
Who’s your favourite person who has worn NewbarK?
Maryam: I don’t have one favourite, it wouldn’t be fair because everyone who is wearing NewbarK is my favourite: Angelina Jolie, Heidi Klum, Jamie Bochert, Courteney Cox, our mom, Josie Maran, my daughter Sophie…just to name a few.
NewbarK spring/summer 2015 collection
What’s your favourite piece from the SS15 NewbarK collection?
Marjan: Our Melanie Loafers are amazing. I love the ‘70s vibe to them and how rock ‘n’ roll they are.
Is there a band you never stop listening to?
Maryam: The Rolling Stones! Classic never gets old.
What’s your favourite concert of all time?
Marjan: The recent Cher concert I just saw – she was amazing.
Store you always visit?
Maryam: When you come to California you must visit A’meree’s in Newport Beach, it’s the most beautiful and tasteful store in a great setting.
Which restaurant do you always return to?
Marjan: Itacho in LA, my favorite Japanese restaurant.
NewbarK spring/summer 2015 collection
What’s your favourite fashion-related memory?
Maryam: Styling a fashion shoot for CR Fashion Book, Carine Roitfeld is my all time hero of style!
What’s your favourite place in the world?
Marjan: I must say the Maldives. Just a beautiful part of the world.
Tell me something about you that would surprise people.
Maryam: I don’t work out! People are always surprised and ask how do you stay thin and in shape? My answer: great power and great genes!
What’s your motto to live by?
Marjan: Be loving, positive, grateful and have good style.
