UP CLOSE WITH: Teamleader Young Contemporary & Italian Fashion Department Els Mondelaers

In honor of our 50th anniversary, we’re celebrating the people behind Fashion Club 70. Up Close With those who have been part of the company for many years. A series of 12 people, the whole year round, that define the half-century of FC70.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE FASHION CLUB 70 IN ONE WORD?

If I had to describe Fashion Club 70 in one word, it would definitely be “the people.” It’s the colleagues, clients, and manufacturers who truly bring this place to life. I’m a real people person, and it’s those connections that make all the difference for me. Building something together, growing together, that’s also why people stay here. The drive to get better every day, together, is something you feel everywhere.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE WITHIN THE COMPANY AND WHERE DOES YOUR EXPERTISE LIE?

I’m the team lead for the Italian fashion and young contemporary segments. In this role, I’m mainly a connector between people: I coordinate, motivate, and make sure everyone can shine in what they do best. Besides that, I’m also active in sales. I know our clients well, spot opportunities, and think it’s important to maintain that connection with the market. It’s not just something I enjoy, it also helps me really understand what’s going on and bring that back to the team.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE MOST SIGNIFICANT CHANGE IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS, AND HOW HAS FC70 RESPONDED TO IT?

For me, the biggest change is the search for balance. Across generations, I notice we’re all trying to find that balance: between giving it our all and knowing when to slow down and reflect. Whereas we used to go full speed ahead, I now learn from younger colleagues to look at the bigger picture. What I love about Fashion Club 70 is how young talent with fresh ideas works together with colleagues who bring years of experience and expertise. That mix of innovation and know-how creates a strong dynamic

WHAT IS YOUR BEST MEMORY AT FC70?

Every day I create new memories, and I’m fully aware of that. If I had to pick one, it would be the Cavalli event in Venice. It was magical: completely private, clients dressed in gala outfits, a fish market transformed into a floral paradise, and arriving by water taxi. One of those moments where you can only say “wow.” What makes my job even more special is its international character. I speak several languages, constantly meet new people and that keeps every day exciting.