Ingrid Seyneave just oozes cool - effortlessly combining beach babe with an downtown edge - a vibe that seems to define both her personality and personal style. In a fickle industry, she has established an international career since winning the Elite Model Look competition in 1991. Early work with Sports Illustrated and on Victoria Secrets’ first shows – an ‘Angel’, before there were ‘Angels’ - propelled her to collaborations with iconic photographers such as Helmut Newton and Peter Lindbergh, and campaigns for Guess Jeans and Ralph Lauren, among others. Today she is also a mom, a presenter, and an entrepreneur as co-founder of uber-cool apparel brand June 7.2.

Founded in 2015 with a desire to create a simple t-shirt “that feels so amazing you never want to take it off”, the June 7.2 range has evolved beyond just t-shirts to include dresses and accessories that are both effortless and timeless. We chatted to Ingrid about the brand, and how she juggles being a model, mom, and entrepreneur.

*The June 7.2 woman:*

*The June 7.2 woman is a complete woman, who is not only working, but also playing. She is complex in her desires to have it all, while maintaining her strength in her femininity.*

LM: What inspired you to launch your own apparel business?

IS: June 7.2 was born on a vacation where Jacquie and I fantasized about re-creating our similar styles for others to enjoy. The feeling is of casual chic clothing that focused on comfort, while never sacrificing style. The dream became a reality when Jacquie and I began designing looks inspired by our birthplaces - Belgium and Argentina - and our current residences in Paris and Los Angeles/Malibu. The clothing reflects a flowing, beachy relaxed feel, but with the urban flair and elegance of the city.

LM: Where does the name of the brand originate?

IS: Our lucky number is 7 for the 2 (both) of us and, coincidentally, we made the agreement on July 2nd, again 7.2…

LM: How do you and Jacquie decide on the styles and print designs?

IS: Since we live on opposite sides of the world, Paris and Los Angeles, both Jacquie and I talk every day and research the styles for the season separately, then communicate digitally. We make a journey once a season to meet in person and spend days locked inside a hotel room to cultivate the looks and inspirations for that season’s collection. From this time together, we design the line and hone it when we return to our homes.

LM: Can you describe the June 7.2 woman?

IS: The June 7.2 woman is a complete woman, who is not only working, but also playing. She is complex in her desires to have it all, while maintaining her strength in her femininity. She can be a teen or a mom, but someone who is confident in showing who they are with modesty and discretion. She calls attention to herself not by shouting: “look at me”, but by being more mysterious and secure with whom she is.

LM: What is your vision for this venture?

IS: Our debut collection was composed of 30 must have styles, each one cut from the finest quality materials available and inspired by one of a kind vintage stone washes. The collections are lovingly designed in Los Angeles and manufactured in Turkey. Every detail is carefully considered, from the signature seam embroidered with red arrows to the No 7.2 stamp.We plan to expand the collections and stay true to our aesthetic values. We are already selling in over 200 high-end multi-brand boutiques all over the world, such as MERCI in Paris. Our aim is to expand into Asia next, so we have many new challenges ahead. It’s so exciting!

LM: You are a mother of two boys, a working model, and a fashion business entrepreneur. How do manage to stay chic with such a hectic life?

IS: Being a mother is a fulltime job and can quickly wear you out. When I added June 7.2 to my world, that definitely added another dimension that was difficult to manage at first. But, I find that every person must also carve out time for themselves and their spouse. I make sure to take care of myself by using good quality products on my skin and my hair. Taking care of my mind and body, is equally important. I eat healthy food and workout regularly, which makes me feel good within both my body and soul. It’s about balance.

Interview by Linda Mateljan

Ingrid Seynhaeve. Effortless cool.