Model Jessica Franklin in Witness Dress

Mikaela Pabon is the jet-setting mother of 2 adorable kids and Creative Director of the prints centered collection, Vetu de Joy. Somehow, Mikaela balances working a full time job, owning a business and being a wife and mom with finesse and style. Transparent and down to earth, she embraces her social community as close friends who get a peek inside her amazing life. It was my pleasure to catch up with her and find out what motivated her to start Vetu de Joy.

Your line is called Vetu de joy. What is the story behind the name?

The name means “Dressed in Joy” – when I was coming up with the concept for my store, I started to think about the types of clothing that made me happiest. I realized that bright colors and bold prints made me feel great, and I wanted my customers to feel that same joy. And my middle name is Joy, so it worked out perfectly!

What type of details draw you to a piece of clothing?

Generally it’s print (or color) first, style second. The print really has to speak to me and then I look at the style or design of the piece to decide if it’s something I would love to wear, and my customers would love as well.

Where did you get your style from and where do you draw inspiration?

I get inspiration from all over the place – but primarily, my love of floral and palm prints comes from my background as a Polynesian dancer. We wore bright reds with hibiscus flowers, fresh green palm leaf adornments, and any tropical color you can think of! I’m always drawn to those types of prints. I’ve also always loved playing with different prints – well before it even had a name. Stripes and plaid, different florals, it’s always been something I’ve loved.

Why do you believe that what we wear is important?

I believe what we wear is important because often times, the very first impression we make is how we present ourselves physically. Everything from how we wear our hair to the condition of the shoes on our feet. And someone like me, who is a bit of an extroverted introvert, I often let my clothes do the talking.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

Hmm… that’s a tough one. I used to stress A LOT, about small things. I’m not even sure where I got that from because neither of my parents are/were big on stress. But a long time ago, a really good friend of mine put me in my place. Lol. He told me that it ALWAYS works out. Somehow, someway, we get through it and it all works out. I’ve carried that with me for the past 15+ years and think about it every so often. I still get a twinge I’d stress here and there, but nothing like before. He was right, whatever it is, it always works out in the end.

Mikaela Pabon

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