Podcast Summary: "What We Wore" Episode 151 – Neeli Lotan

Title: ARCHIVE | Neeli Lotan
Host: Laura Vinrit Pool
Guest: Neeli Lotan
Release Date: October 23, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 151 of What We Wore, host Laura Vinrit Pool delves into the inspiring journey of Neeli Lotan, an influential figure in the fashion industry. Neeli, whose career spans from the Israeli military to corporate fashion giants, and ultimately to her own acclaimed design label, shares her unique experiences and insights. This archival episode, re-aired to coincide with the launch of Neeli's latest collection in Charlotte, offers a deep dive into her life, career, and design philosophy.

Early Life and Background

Neeli Lotan begins by recounting her upbringing in Netanya, Israel, a serene beach city near Tel Aviv. She fondly describes the tranquil environment and the close-knit community that shaped her early years.

Neeli Lotan [04:05]: "Growing up on the beach... looking at the horizon and seeing only the very fine line of the horizon and the sunsets and the blue and the minimal kind of landscape. It does something to you."

Her parents, of Hungarian and Russian descent, greatly influenced her aesthetic sensibility. Both were style-conscious; her father, educated in Paris, instilled in her the value of quality over quantity, while her mother, a textile designer, imparted an appreciation for coordinated and tasteful dressing.

Military Service and Fashion Education

Mandatory military service in Israel played a significant role in Neeli's life. Serving in the Air Force, she took on responsibilities that honed her leadership and organizational skills.

Neeli Lotan [16:11]: "The army is actually a great school for life... you look at everyone equally, regardless of where they come from or what their background is."

After her service, Neeli pursued formal education in fashion and art, joining the first class of Israel's academic fashion school, which was affiliated with the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). This education laid the groundwork for her future career in fashion design.

Career in the Fashion Industry

Neeli's professional journey began with pioneering work in outsourcing manufacturing to Asia, working for Roberta Stein who was instrumental in expanding knitting and sweater production overseas. She recounts her early challenges, including cultural shocks and adapting to new manufacturing environments.

Neeli Lotan [19:10]: "Being Israeli... it was traumatic because I never really faced the reality that I, as an Israeli, had a machine gun."

Her talent quickly led her to prominent positions, including Vice President at Liz Claiborne in the late 1980s. Neeli highlights her significant achievements, such as establishing a new division that generated $100 million within a year.

Neeli also worked with other major brands like Adrian Vitadini and Ralph Lauren, where she gleaned invaluable lessons in design integrity and operational excellence. Her time at Liz Claiborne under industry leaders like Art Ortenberg and David Chu was transformative, balancing creative aspirations with business acumen.

Neeli Lotan [30:07]: "David Chu actually put the seed money for my company and had a respect for my work, which was crucial at the beginning of my career as an independent designer."

Establishing Her Own Brand

After years in the corporate sector, Neeli transitioned to launching her own label, Neeli Lotan. This move was driven by a desire to design authentically for herself rather than conforming to market demands. Her brand is characterized by its personal touch, focusing on comfort, fit, and empowering women through fashion.

Neeli Lotan [33:04]: "I'm communicating to women my aesthetic... it's about style. My style."

Neeli emphasizes that her collections are an extension of her wardrobe—pieces she loves and wants to share. This approach ensures authenticity and a deep connection with her clientele.

Design Philosophy and Impact

Neeli's design philosophy revolves around creating clothing that empowers women by making them feel confident and comfortable. She believes that true confidence stems from comfort in one’s attire, allowing women to focus on their endeavors without distraction.

Neeli Lotan [34:50]: "The confidence comes from comfort. When you're wearing something that makes you feel good, it's flattering, it fits well... that gives you the empowerment to be confident in the room."

Her designs are not trend-driven but are a reflection of her personal style and experiences, offering timeless pieces that resonate deeply with her audience.

Personal Life

Balancing a demanding career with family life has been a recurring theme in Neeli's story. She discusses the challenges of maintaining relationships and managing time between professional commitments and personal responsibilities.

Neeli Lotan [37:32]: "At the end of a workday, I go home and I have two kids that I need to take care of and a husband that I need to take care of."

Neeli's experiences as a working woman in the fashion industry have influenced her approach to business, emphasizing the importance of understanding and accommodating diverse needs within her team.

Conclusion

Neeli Lotan's journey from a beach town in Israel to the echelons of the global fashion industry, and ultimately to her own successful brand, is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and dedication. Her story underscores the importance of authenticity, quality, and personal expression in fashion. Through her designs, Neeli continues to empower women, making What We Wore a compelling listen for anyone interested in the intersection of personal narrative and fashion innovation.

Neeli Lotan [36:29]: "I'm not designing to make a living. I am communicating to women my aesthetic... it's about style. My style."

For more insights and updates on Capitol, Laura Vinrit Pool, and future What We Wore guests, follow @shopcapitol and @whatweworepodcast on Instagram.

Produced by Capitol and Balto Creative Media. Original song "Someone so Enchanting" composed and performed by Brit Drazda.