March Mina Maven Josefina Wytrykusz

Meet our March Mina Maven Josefina Wytrykusz

At what age did you know that Fashion was going to be a big part of your life?

I honestly think I was ALWAYS into fashion. In my family, we are 4 in total, and I was always the fashionista, putting outfits together since I can remember, always styling my hair and accessories to match my outfit. I even used to put on fashion shows in my living room when we had company!


From Dash Doll to Mina Maven, what's a tip for someone that wants to be recognized for their achievements in the fashion world?

There are so many aspects in the fashions industry...but I think the most important advice I've ever received (and now I give), is to stay true to who you are. You have to be confident, proud and LOVE anything you put out in the world.

Tell us a little bit about your background.

I was born in Rosario, Argentina. My parents moved us all to the US when I was just 1, so I really feel more American than anything. I studied Broadcast Journalism at FIU, but always had fashion on my mind! I started working at DASH Miami while finishing my Bachelor's degree and quickly climbed the ladder to become Store Manager in 6 months! I ended up staying at DASH Miami for 2 years, and my gosh did I learn SO much! From dealing with customers and fans, merchandising and creating window displays, to managing a set of employees...it really taught me how hard maintaining a successful boutique is. Working for three sister's who are entrepreneur's and so successful at everything they do was a really amazing opportunity. They even featured me in Season 2 of Khloe & Kourtney Take Miami.


What is your relationship status?

I currently have a teddy bear I sleep with at night...Ramiro! ;)


What is the best way to stay in the loop with the latest trends?
 
I think blogs have taken over, more so than magazines, for keeping up with the latest trends! Mostly because a blog post is so instant! There are bloggers out there posting a couple times a day, and makes it really exciting to see what fashionista's all over the world are into. These blogs constantly inspire me!

Do you blog?

I WISH! I really wish I had the time, but between my full-time job as a buyer, and traveling to different shows, it's just really hard to maintain a website/blog! Maybe in the future....it's always on my mind! I'd LOVE to contribute to blogs, that seems like a more attainable goal!

Tell me a little about your position at Koko and Palenki?

I am currently the Assistant Buyer for Clothing and Accessories. I honestly LOVE my job! I'm so thankful to work for such a great company. They have been in business for 25 years....and I think it's because the owners truly love what they do. As a buyer, they are trusting me to set the trend and buy what I believe the customers will love. There is alot of forecasting in this position. We are buying months in advance, and hoping that what we buy will sell. I just got back from Coterie in NYC (this is a huge convention where buyer's meet with different vendors/brands). It was NON-STOP! 12 hour days (not that glamorous) but so exciting! Clothes makes me excited! haha But in between shows, I'm keeping up with our sales, re-ordering top sellers, monitoring what is selling, what is not fitting properly, are orders coming in on time, making sure we are not over bought each months....gosh it really is alot of work, but it doesn't feel like work to me because I love it!



Do you eventually want to own your own store or design your own line of clothing?

I have always wanted to have a small "everyday basics" type of line. Sometimes I just want a perfect tee and I can't ever find one! So yes, having my own line has always been on my mind, but it's not my top priority at the moment.


What are your thoughts on the hats woman wear to the Kentucky Derby?

 HAHA! Well, being that my boyfriend is a horse-owner and is into horse racing...I've become more familiar with the sport...and I think the hats and outfits the women wear to the Kentucky Derby are a big out there...borderline tacky for everyday real life, but it totally works for this event. I think it's fun! I'd love to attend one day!


In your opinion how can a woman dress fashionably and be comfortable at the same time?

Wear what makes you feel good. Whatever makes you feel pretty! Seriously! YSL's, skinny jeans and a plain white Vneck is my favorite "comfy" outfit. It's a no-brainer.

Give us your favorite beauty secret?

SLEEP!! and since I can remember, I've been wearing SPF30 daily moisturizer. I want to age as gracefully as I can!


Are you into the new nail polish trends?

I was into the half-moon mani for a while...but for everyday I usually have on OPI's Siberian Nights or Lincoln Park After Dark...they look great with my light skin!


Who inspires your wardrobe?

I get inspired but anyone and everyone! My style changes with my moods, but Audrey Hepburn's style is timeless! I also really love my sister's style! She wear's anything she feels like, and is fearless! She inspires me!

What is some advice you would give woman today that want to work in the fashion world.
I say do whatever it is that you love....and that is for anything you do in life!


Leave us with your favorite quote.

"Happy girls are always the prettiest." Audrey Hepburn

"I’m never content with what I do. I live in a sort of permanent dissatisfaction. I think that’s the secret to doing things well.” — Karl Lagerfeld