Satin Van Cleef is the genius behind every woman’s life-saving need-to-own accessory. A favorite of heiress Jaimie Hilfiger, Vienna Victoria is the jewelry line that doubles as a lipstick holder. The mother of two and businesswoman is taking the beauty and jewelry industry by storm with her practical and luxurious creations. Cliché caught up with the designer to discuss her thriving business.
Cliché: How did you come up with the concept of merging lipstick and jewelry together?
Satin Van Cleef: I was on my way to a New York Yankee’s game and had on a cute pair of skinny jeans. I didn’t want lipstick bulging out of my back pocket and was not in the mood to carry a bag. I wanted to be carefree and hang out with the guys, but of course still be able to touch-up easily.
How do you juggle your flourishing business and being a mom to your two daughters, who you named your company after?
It is not easy, but it is so worth it. Showing them that success is earned and not expected is the greatest gift a role model can give. They know that I go back to work after tucking them into bed because after school they have all of me. I gave up 9-5 and embraced 24/7 a long time ago. Honestly, I feel like a fraud sometimes because I don’t know how the women before me did it without Wi-Fi and smart phones. The ability to be so mobile helps me have a career and be the involved mom I want to be for my girls.
How does Vienna Victoria jewelry/makeup work? Once the lipstick finishes, can it be replaced?
The great thing about Vienna Victoria is that the lipstick can be replaced or switched out to one of six different colors at any time. Let’s face it: we all like different colors at various times of the day, so being able to change up lip colors is just one of the many features that makes the brand unique. How many times do we change our outfit before leaving the house? We shouldn’t have to be held down to one lip color.
Can you buy lipstick and jewelry separately?
Yes, you can buy the jewelry and lip colors separately. There are two different lip color sizes: small for the rings and large for the bracelets and necklaces.
You focus on supporting women and encouraging young girls to dream big. How does your product encourage women?
I think it is important for women to embrace their natural beauty and focus on loving themselves for who they are. Makeup can transform a look, mood, or attitude, and I love being a part of giving women that empowering feeling. Lipstick makes me feel more sophisticated. Plus, lip colors can provide a subtle elegance that going bare does not always provide. For instance, dry, chapped lips do not pair well with a cocktail dress. Lipstick makes a woman ready to go and put her best face forward, giving her the confidence she needs to take over the world!
What’s the next step for Vienna Victoria?
I am excited to get back to designing very soon! I have had such a busy year traveling and attending conferences, which was wonderful, but my true passion is working with the factory on new designs.
To shop the collection, visit www.viennavictoria.com
All images are courtesy of Vienna Victoria
Vienna Victoria Interview “Lipstick Lovers: Vienna Victoria” originally appeared in Cliché Magazine’s Aug/Sept 2014 issue.
