MOUCHETTE BELL

We are thrilled to spotlight our latest Marfa Muse, Mouchette Bell.

Mouchette’s modelling career started in the 1970’s, championed by the late Italian Vogue editor Franca Sozzani.  Her keen interest in fashion and incredible personal style led her career path into fashion editorial for 25 years, holding positions at an amazing array of magazines such as Vogue, Mademoiselle, Elle, Tatler and Vanity Fair.  Mouchette has since embraced her successful return to modelling, and we are proud she featured in the most recent Marfa Stance campaign.

Mouchette is 5ft 6 ½ and wears size S in a selection of pieces from our collection.

#marfamuse

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND WHAT LED YOU TO WORKING IN FASHION

I have always understood the transformative theatrical power of clothing. My first fashion memory was my “Holy Communion” outfit and crown veil age 7.I was asked to model aged 15 whist walking down Portobello Road in London dressed up in vintage.  A few years later when modelling in New York a wonderful editor at Conde Nast encouraged me to style and gave me a job. I went on from there styling as a fashion editor for the next 25 years.

HOW DID THE MOVE BACK INTO MODELLING IN YOUR FIFTIES COME ABOUT?

My return to modelling was brought about by a friend Iain R Webb, who suggested I give fashion talks to MA students. At that time, I needed to change things up in my life.  After the talk a wonderful teacher Louise Pickles from Bath University asked me to walk in the student show.  From there, it was suggested I go for an interview at Models1 and I was so thrilled when they took me on in their classics department almost 3 years ago. It has been such a privilege to have this second chance. It’s different now, more about personality energy and just being who you are. I love it. 

DO YOU THINK YOUR STYLE HAS CHANGED WITH AGE?

My older self is a little less flamboyant in style however I still love a statement piece.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I am proud of many things and people, mostly my family members and my nephews. I’m proud that I am a survivor, I feel I still have a way to go. I feel responsible to influence and support those younger in a positive way.

HOW DO YOU STYLE YOUR MARFA STANCE PIECE AND WHY DO YOU LIKE THE BRAND?

Marfa Stance is very versatile. I love its urban utilitarian use but also the exquisite attention to detail. The beautiful fabric combinations and cut that takes the pieces to a whole new level.  Photography: Nadia Ryder